Guides
5 min read
Static vs. Dynamic QR Codes: Which Should You Use? (Decision Guide)
A practical guide to choosing between static and dynamic QR codes. Covers use cases, cost, limitations, and when each type makes sense.
Not every QR code needs to be dynamic. Here's a practical guide to choosing the right type.
When to Use Static QR Codes
Static QR codes encode data directly — no server required. Use them when:
- WiFi network sharing — Encode SSID and password directly
- vCard contact info — Share your contact details offline
- Fixed URLs that will never change — Your company homepage
- Offline environments — Where the scanner may not have internet
- One-off personal use — A link on a wedding invitation
When to Use Dynamic QR Codes
Dynamic QR codes use a redirect server. Use them when:
- You might need to change the destination — Promotions, seasonal content, campaign pivots
- You need scan analytics — Track who, when, where
- You want conditional routing — Different pages for different devices or locations
- You're printing at scale — Changing 10,000 flyers is expensive; updating a URL is free
- You're running A/B tests — Test landing pages without reprinting
- You need automations — Trigger actions based on scan patterns
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Criteria | Static | Dynamic |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Free forever | From $19/mo |
| Editable after print | No | Yes |
| Scan tracking | No | Yes |
| Conditional routing | No | Yes |
| A/B testing | No | Yes |
| Works offline | Yes | Needs internet |
| QR pattern size | Depends on data | Always small (short URL) |
The Short Answer
If you're doing anything commercial, operational, or at scale, go dynamic. The ability to update destinations, track scans, and apply routing logic after printing is worth the cost. Static codes are best for simple, permanent, offline data sharing.
ScanStack supports both — generate static QR codes for free, and dynamic codes starting at $19/mo. See pricing.