Static vs dynamic QR codes: What is the difference?

Static QR codes permanently encode a single destination and can’t be changed or tracked once they’re created and printed, while dynamic QR codes let you update the destination and monitor scan activity over time. This means static QR codes are best for fixed, one-time uses, whereas dynamic QR codes offer flexibility and performance insights for ongoing campaigns.

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Static vs Dynamic QR Codes

QR codes are widely used for customer engagement, digital signage, and e-commerce because they connect physical and digital experiences through a simple scan. Understanding the difference between static and dynamic QR codes helps you choose the right option and avoid broken links, missed insights, or costly reprints.

What is a Static QR Code? 

A static QR code is a type of QR code that contains fixed information and can’t be changed or updated after it’s created. It always directs users to the same destination and doesn’t support scan tracking or analytics. Because of this, static QR codes are best suited for permanent uses where the content will not need to change.

4 common uses for Static QR codes

Since static QR codes work best when the information they link to is permanent and doesn’t need to be updated or tracked. Here are four common use cases for static QR codes:

1. Contact information: Use static QR codes to share fixed details like phone numbers, email addresses, or vCard contact info.
2. Website URLs: Link to a homepage or landing page that is unlikely to change over time.
3. Wi-Fi access: Provide instant access to a Wi-Fi network by encoding the network name and password.
4. Product information: Share static details such as ingredients, user manuals, or safety instructions that won’t need frequent updates.

What is a dynamic QR code?

A dynamic QR code is a type of QR code that allows you to change the destination or content after the code has been created and shared. It also supports scan tracking and analytics, so you can measure performance over time. This makes dynamic QR codes ideal for campaigns, promotions, and any use case where flexibility and insights matter.

How to dynamically update a QR code

You can’t change the appearance of a QR code. However, if it holds a URL, you can change the website it leads to as long as the address stays the same. There are two ways to do this:

1. Update the web page that the QR code sends people to: This is often the simplest way. You’ll need to do some work in the background and make sure the web page is complete and accurate. Once ready, move changes to the live page for users to interact with.
2. Use a URL that’s meant for redirecting: This is the most efficient method and is ideal if you’re planning multiple promotions or A/B testing. When you’re ready to display new information, redirect the URL from the code to any website via your Domain Name System. By using this method, you can plan things months in advance. 

4 common uses for dynamic QR codes

There are multiple reasons your company might make use of QR codes, including

1. Analytics and marketing: Track the number of visitors to a page each time a QR code is scanned via a billboard or digital advertisement. This is especially useful if you’re running a specific promotion or marketing campaign.
2. A/B testing: By updating your dynamic QR code with new information throughout a particular period, you can track and learn what customers respond best to. 
3. Restaurant menus: Menu variety is an excellent way to keep people coming back. Use the same QR code but change daily specials or seasonal offerings based on your venue’s current menu without having to pay hundreds of dollars in printing costs.
4. Survey rewards: Offer survey participants unique rewards with one QR code — for example, a custom coupon.

How to generate a dynamic QR code

However you choose to make use of it, Jotform can create a unique dynamic QR code and add it to your online form in seconds:

1. Head to Rich Content and select Dynamic QR Code.
2. Click Add to Form.
3. Select Create a Form if you’re starting from scratch or Use Template if you want to add the QR code to an existing form.

And that’s all it takes! Discover where else you could be leveraging online forms in your business with Jotform.

Photo by Arina Krasnikova