Dynamic vs Static QR Codes: Complete Guide to Choosing the Right Type

A static QR code encodes data directly into its pattern. The URL, text, or contact info is baked into the black-and-white squares themselves. Once generated, it can never be changed. Scan it in 10 years and it still points to the same place — assuming that destination still exists.

A dynamic QR code works differently. Instead of encoding your final URL, it encodes a short redirect link. When someone scans it, they hit the redirect first, which forwards them to your actual destination. Because you control the redirect, you can change the destination anytime — without reprinting the code. This redirect layer also enables scan tracking: every scan is logged with timestamp, location, device type, and more.

Static QR codes are the original type. They store information directly in the code pattern. The more data you encode, the denser (and harder to scan) the code becomes. A simple URL creates a clean, easy-to-scan pattern. A full vCard with name, phone, email, and address creates a much more complex one.

The key characteristic: once generated, a static QR code is permanent. There's no server involved, no redirect, no tracking. It's just a visual encoding of data that any QR scanner can read. This makes them incredibly reliable — they work offline, they never expire, and they don't depend on any service staying online.

Dynamic QR codes use a short redirect URL as an intermediary. When someone scans the code, they're briefly routed through a tracking server before reaching the final destination. This happens in milliseconds — the user doesn't notice the redirect.

The redirect layer is what gives dynamic codes their power. You can change where the code points without changing the code itself. You can see exactly how many people scanned it, when, where, and on what device. For businesses running marketing campaigns, this data is essential.