Static vs Dynamic QR Codes: What’s the Difference?

What is a static QR code?

A static QR code stores its content directly in the pattern of squares — a web address, a phone number or Wi-Fi details. Phones read it without any server in between.

Because the content is printed into the code, it can never change. A typo, a new website or an expired promotion means printing a new code.

What is a dynamic QR code?

A dynamic QR code stores a short address instead, like mrqr.link/ab12cd. When someone scans it, that address redirects them to wherever you’ve set it to go today.

Because the redirect lives on the server, you can change the destination after printing — and every scan can be counted.

Side by side

• Change the destination after printing — static: no; dynamic: yes.
• Scan analytics — static: no; dynamic: yes.
• Password protection — static: no; dynamic: yes.
• Works without the internet — static: yes (for Wi-Fi, text and contact details); dynamic: needs a connection to redirect.
• Depends on the provider staying up — static: no; dynamic: yes.

Which one should you use?

Use dynamic codes for anything printed that might change: menus, flyers, packaging, posters, business cards and signs. Use static codes when the content will never change, or for Wi-Fi, which phones can only join from a static code.

Watch out for trials that switch codes off

Many generators give dynamic codes only during a 7- or 14-day trial. When the trial ends, the codes are paused or send people to a service page until you pay — after they’ve been printed. Check what happens after the trial before you print.

MisterQR’s dynamic codes are free right now, with no trial and no credit card.