Dynamic vs static QR codes: what's the difference?
Both look identical and scan the same way. The difference is what happens behind the code — and it decides whether you'll ever have to reprint.
Static QR codes
A static code encodes your data (a URL, text, WiFi details) directly. It's simple and free, but the content is fixed forever. If the link changes, the old code is dead — you generate and reprint a new one. And because nothing sits between the scan and the destination, you get no analytics.
Best for: one-off, never-changing data like a WiFi password or a vCard.
Dynamic QR codes
A dynamic code encodes a short link you control. The code stays the same, but you can change where it points anytime — even after it's printed on thousands of items. Every scan routes through the short link, so you also get analytics: how many scans, when, from which country, on what device.
Best for: anything marketing — menus, packaging, signage, flyers, campaigns.
| Feature | Static | Dynamic (ScanIQ) |
|---|---|---|
| Edit destination after printing | ✗ | ✓ |
| Scan analytics | ✗ | ✓ |
| Works with any phone camera | ✓ | ✓ |
| Free to create | ✓ | ✓ (up to 3) |
| Reprint when link changes | Required | Never |
Make one now (free)
Generate a free static code below, or create a free dynamic code you can edit and track.