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 and business cards. But did you know that 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 websites, display text, share contact information, and much more. Using QR codes provides a quick and easy way for users to access information without having to type in a URL or perform a search.

Static QR codes: The basics

Static QR codes are the most basic form of QR codes. They have fixed, immutable 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, meaning that the QR code functions independently and does not need a connection to the internet to reveal the stored information.

Benefits of static QR codes:

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

No internet connection needed: 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: As static QR codes do not rely on a server, they have an unlimited lifetime. 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 are:

Visiting cards: A QR code on a business card can contain a person's contact details, 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 changed even after the QR code has been created. Instead of storing the information directly in the code, dynamic QR codes store a reference to the information on a server.

Benefits of Dynamic QR Codes

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

Customisable: The content of a dynamic QR code can be updated or changed after generating the code. This means you can modify the information provided by the QR code without having to create a new code.

Traceable: Dynamic QR codes allow you to collect scanning statistics, such as how often, where and with which device the code was scanned. This can provide valuable insights for marketing purposes.

More memory-efficient: Since dynamic QR codes refer to a URL, they can hold much more information than a static code. This makes them ideal for applications that require a large amount of information.

Applications for 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 for dynamic QR codes are:

Marketing campaigns: Dynamic QR codes can be used to redirect users to different landing pages or update special promotions. This makes it possible to test and adjust the effectiveness of different campaigns based on real-time feedback.

Menus in restaurants: Dynamic QR codes can be used to update menus in real-time. This is particularly useful for restaurants that change their menu regularly or have different menus for different times of the day.

Events and tickets: Dynamic QR codes can be used to provide the latest information about an event or to verify the authenticity of a ticket. This can help prevent fraud and ensure that attendees always have access to the most up-to-date information.

Static QR codes vs Dynamic QR codes: The Key Difference

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

In addition, dynamic QR codes also offer the possibility of collecting scanning statistics, which can provide 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:

Edit Content:

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 changed even after the code has been 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 pointing to this data.

Data tracking:

Static QR codes: No tracking is possible. You cannot see how many times the QR code has been scanned or from which location.

Dynamic QR codes: You can track how many times the QR code was scanned, where and when, and which device was used.

Connection required:

Static QR codes: They do not require an internet connection to reveal the stored information.

Dynamic QR codes: They require an internet connection to direct the user to the stored URL.

Usage 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: Because they point to a URL, the amount of information they can contain is effectively unlimited.

Lifetime:

Static QR codes: Because they do not rely on a server, they have an unlimited lifespan.

Dynamic QR codes: They depend 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 benefits and applications. Choosing the right kind of QR code depends on your specific needs and goals. If you need a simple, cost-effective solution for sharing immutable 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, then a dynamic QR code is probably 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 choosing the right QR code for your needs, you can maximise the effectiveness of your communication efforts and provide a better experience to those who scan your QR codes.