Static or dynamic QR code: which should you choose?
The right choice depends on what needs to change after printing. A static QR code directly contains your data or link. A dynamic QR uses a service-managed address whose destination can be changed.
QR66 team · System 66 SARL ·
What stays fixed in a static QR code
Once printed, the characters encoded in the QR cannot change. This suits stable contact details, a Wi-Fi network or a lasting website address. QR66 lets you create and download static QR codes for free.
One useful distinction: a static QR pointing to a web page can show changing content. The address stays fixed in the QR, but the site owner can update the page at that address.
What a dynamic QR code can change
The QR contains a redirect address. Your workspace lets you update the associated destination, depending on your plan, without replacing the printed code. This is useful for labels, posters and widely distributed materials.
Available statistics depend on the journey and plan. A scan is not automatically a unique customer, order or sale: interpret the figures in the context of your use case.
Choose for your printed material
For a business card with stable contact details, a static contact QR may be enough. If you expect to change the destination after distribution, choose an editable journey.
For a menu or product page, hosted content can change behind a stable address. Updating that page and changing a QR’s destination are two different needs.
Check the service terms
Before distributing a dynamic QR code, check your plan’s terms, service duration and editing options. Read QR66’s plans and terms to understand what happens when a trial or subscription ends.
A static QR does not need the service to retain its encoded data. If it links to a website, that website and domain must remain accessible. A dynamic QR also depends on its redirect service.
Check before the print run
Test the final file after layout. A QR that works on screen may become difficult to scan when printed too small, with poor contrast or with its edges cropped.
- Scan with several phones and check the exact destination.
- Review contact details, the link or the Wi-Fi password before downloading.
- Keep the clear margin and choose readable contrast.
- Print one sample at actual size and test it on the intended material.
- Keep the file and a note of where the QR is used.
Fit the QR into your organisation
QR66 gives access to menus, contact details, pages and documents. Inventory, quotes and invoicing belong in your commercial management software, such as ActionERP.
To combine both tools, define which information to publish and who keeps it current. Any integration must be prepared for the journey: creating a QR alone does not synchronise your ERP.