Static vs Dynamic QR Codes: Discover the differences and specifics of the QR code

Created on 21 May, 2023 | QR-code |   | 6 minutes read

QR codes, or "Quick Response" codes, have become an integral part of our digital world. They are all around us, from product packaging to billboards to business cards. But did you know there are two main types of QR codes - static and dynamic? In this article, we will dive deep into the world of QR codes and discover the differences, benefits and applications of these two types of QR codes.

What is a QR code?

QR codes are two-dimensional barcodes that can be scanned with a smartphone or QR code reader to quickly deliver information. They can be used to link to Web sites, display text, share contact information, and more. Using QR codes provides a quick and easy way for users to access information without typing in a URL or performing a search.

Static QR Codes: The Basics

Static QR codes are the most basic form of QR codes. They have fixed, unchanging content. This means that once a static QR code is created, the information stored in it cannot be changed. This information is stored directly in the code, which means that the QR code functions independently and does not need a connection to the Internet to reveal the stored information.

Advantages of static QR codes:

Static QR codes have several advantages that make them suitable for certain applications. Some of these advantages include:

• No Internet connection required: Because the information is stored directly in the code, static QR codes do not require an Internet connection to reveal the information. This makes them ideal for situations where the user may not have access to a reliable Internet connection.
• Easy to generate: Static QR codes are relatively easy to generate and usually cost less than dynamic QR codes. In many cases, they can even be created for free.
• Unlimited validity: Because static QR codes do not rely on a server, they have an unlimited lifespan. This means they continue to work as long as the QR code remains intact, no matter how much time has passed since the code was created.

Applications for Static QR Codes

Static QR codes are particularly useful in situations where the information to be shared will not change. Some of the most common applications for static QR codes include:

• Business cards: A QR code on a business card can contain a person's contact information, such as their name, phone number, e-mail address and physical address. This makes it easy for people to store this information and use it later.
• Physical products: QR codes on product packaging can direct users to manuals, additional product information or even a customer service website. This can be particularly useful for products that are complex or require additional information to use correctly.

Dynamic QR Codes: The Evolution

Dynamic QR codes are a more advanced form of QR codes. Unlike static QR codes, which have fixed content, dynamic QR codes can be updated or modified even after the QR code is created. Instead of storing the information directly in the code, dynamic QR codes store a reference to the information on a server.

Advantages of Dynamic QR Codes

Dynamic QR codes have several advantages that make them ideal for certain applications. Some of these advantages include:

• Customizability: The content of a dynamic QR code can be updated or changed after generating the code. This means you can modify the information delivered by the QR code without having to create a new code.
• Trackability: Dynamic QR codes allow you to collect scan statistics, such as how often, where, and with which device the code was scanned. This can provide valuable insights for marketing purposes.
• Efficient use of memory: Since dynamic QR codes reference a URL, they can contain much more information than a static code. This makes them ideal for applications that require a large amount of information.

Applications of Dynamic QR Codes

Dynamic QR codes are particularly useful in situations where the information to be shared is likely to change or needs to be updated. Some of the most common applications of dynamic QR codes are:

• Marketing campaigns: Dynamic QR codes can be used to redirect users to different landing pages or update special promotions. This allows testing the effectiveness of various campaigns and making adjustments based on real-time feedback.
• Restaurant menus: Dynamic QR codes can be used to update menus in real-time. This is particularly useful for restaurants that frequently change their menu or have different menus for different times of the day.
• Events and tickets: Dynamic QR codes can be used to deliver the latest information about an event or to verify the authenticity of a ticket. This can help prevent fraud and ensure that participants always have access to the most up-to-date information.

Statische vs Dynamische QR-codes: The Main Difference

The main difference between static and dynamic QR codes lies in their flexibility. Static QR codes are unchangeable and have fixed content, whereas dynamic QR codes can be updated and modified even after they are created. This makes dynamic QR codes more versatile and better suited for applications where the information is likely to change.

Additionally, dynamic QR codes also provide the ability to collect scan statistics, which can offer valuable insights for marketing purposes. On the other hand, static QR codes do not require an internet connection to reveal the stored information, making them ideal for situations where the user may not have access to a reliable internet connection.

Here are the specific differences between static and dynamic QR codes:

Content Editing:

• Static QR codes: Once created, the content of a static QR code cannot be changed.
• Dynamic QR codes: The content of a dynamic QR code can be modified even after the code is created.

Data Storage:

• Static QR codes: The data is stored directly in the QR code.
• Dynamic QR codes: The data is stored on a server, and the QR code contains a URL that points to this data.

Data Tracking:

• Static QR codes: No tracking is possible. You cannot see how often the QR code has been scanned or from which location.
• Dynamic QR codes: You can track how often the QR code has been scanned, where and when, and which device was used.

Connection Requirement:

• Static QR codes: They do not require an internet connection to reveal the stored information.
• Dynamic QR codes: They require an internet connection to redirect the user to the stored URL.

Capacity:

• Static QR codes: Due to the limited storage capacity of the QR code itself, static QR codes can contain a limited amount of information.
• Dynamic QR codes: Since they refer to a URL, the amount of information they can contain is virtually unlimited.

Lifespan:

• Static QR codes: Because they are not dependent on a server, they have an unlimited lifespan.
• Dynamic QR codes: They rely on the server where the related URL is stored, so their lifespan may be limited.

Both static and dynamic QR codes have their own unique advantages and applications. Choosing the right type of QR code depends on your specific needs and goals. If you need a simple, cost-effective solution for sharing unchangeable information, a static QR code might be the best choice. However, if you are looking for more flexibility and the ability to track and update your QR codes, a dynamic QR code is likely the better option.

Regardless of the type of QR code you choose, it is important to remember that QR codes can be a powerful tool for sharing information and engaging your audience. By selecting the right QR code for your needs, you can maximize the effectiveness of your communication efforts and provide a better experience to those who scan your QR codes.