Static or dynamic QR code? What to know before you print one
By Online Business Cards Editorial Team | Published | Updated | Sharing your card
Some QR codes keep working for ever; others stop when a subscription ends. Here is the difference between static and dynamic codes, and how to choose one you can safely print.
A QR code looks the same whichever way it was made, but there are two very different kinds. One keeps working for as long as the web page it points to exists. The other depends on a service in the middle, and can stop working if that service closes or a subscription lapses. If you are about to print a code on hundreds of business cards, a shop sign or a van, it is worth knowing which one you have.
Static QR codes
A static QR code stores the web address directly in the pattern. When someone scans it, their phone reads the address and opens it. Nothing else is involved.
- It never expires. The code itself cannot stop working, because there is nothing to switch off.
- It cannot be changed. If you want it to point somewhere else, you need a new code.
- It works as long as the page works. If the page it points to is taken down, the code leads nowhere.
Static codes are free to create with many tools, and they are the simplest choice when the address will not change.
Dynamic QR codes
A dynamic QR code stores a short address that belongs to a QR code service. When someone scans it, they go to that service first, which then sends them on to your page.
- You can change where it goes without reprinting, by logging into the service.
- The service can usually count scans.
- It depends on the service. If the service closes, changes its terms, or your subscription or free trial ends, the code may stop working or show the service's own page instead.
That last point has caught out many small businesses. A code printed on menus or flyers during a free trial can stop working when the trial ends.
Comparing the two
Static | Dynamic
Expires | No | Can, if the service ends or a subscription lapses
Can change destination | No | Yes
Counts scans | No | Usually
Depends on a third party | No | Yes
Typical cost | Usually free | Often a subscription
How this applies to a digital business card
A digital business card already solves the problem that dynamic codes are often used for. Its link stays the same, and you change the details on the page behind it. So the QR code for your card can simply point at your card's link:
- Your details change on the card, not in the code.
- The code does not need changing when you get a new job title or number.
- Analytics on your card show how often it is opened, so you do not need a separate scan-counting service for that.
Before you print any code, scan it and check that the address your phone shows is your card's own link. If you create a code with another QR tool, check whether it is static or dynamic first.
How to check what kind of code you have
- Scan it and look at the address your phone shows before you open it. If it shows your own card or website address, it is probably static. If it shows a different short address from a QR code company, it is dynamic.
- Check the tool you used. Many QR code websites create dynamic codes by default, especially if they offer scan counts.
- Read the terms. If a service offers dynamic codes, check what happens to your codes if you stop paying.
Before you print: a short checklist
- Scan the code and check it opens the right page.
- Check whether it points directly at your page or through another service.
- If it goes through another service, check that you are happy to depend on it for as long as the printed material is in use.
- Check size and contrast. Our QR code size and placement guide covers both.
- Print your web address next to the code, for people who cannot scan it.
Our guide to putting your QR code on printed cards has a full proof checklist.
When a dynamic code makes sense
Dynamic codes have their place. If you are printing a large run of something that will be in use for a long time and you expect the destination to change, such as a poster campaign pointing at a different offer each month, a reliable dynamic service can be worth paying for. Just make sure you understand the terms and keep your account in good order.
Keep your codes trustworthy
Whatever kind of code you use, make sure people can trust it. Fake codes stuck over real ones are a common scam. Our guide to QR code scams explains how to make your codes easy to trust.
Which plan you need
Both plans include a QR code for your card. Brand Presence (£45, one-off) covers your details, social links, documents, gallery and analytics. The Business Plan (£90, one-off) adds bookings, enquiries, forms, contact leads and a CRM. Compare them on our plans, or see the QR code business card.
Read next: QR code business cards and Six ways to share a digital business card, and when each one works best. You can also browse all our guides.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a static and a dynamic QR code?
A static code stores your web address directly and never expires. A dynamic code points to a QR code service that redirects people to your page, so it can be changed, but it depends on that service.
Do QR codes expire?
Static QR codes do not expire. Dynamic codes can stop working if the service closes or a subscription or free trial ends.
Does my digital business card need a dynamic QR code?
No. Your card's link stays the same and you update the details on the card, so a code pointing directly at your card's link keeps working.
How can I tell if a QR code is dynamic?
Scan it and look at the address your phone shows. If it is a short address belonging to a QR code company rather than your own page, it is probably dynamic.
Can I tell if my QR code is static or dynamic?
Scan it and look at the address that opens. If it goes through a short-link or QR service before reaching your page, it is probably dynamic.