"Static" and "dynamic" are the two basic kinds of QR codes, and choosing the wrong one can cost you money or force you to reprint. This guide explains the difference in plain language, the real pros and cons of each, and a simple trick to get most of the flexibility of a dynamic code for free.
What is a static QR code?
A static QR code stores its destination directly inside the pattern. When you scan it, your phone reads the link and opens it. Nothing sits in between.
- Free and works forever. There's no service that can expire.
- Private: no third-party server sees every scan.
- Can't be edited after printing. A new destination means a new code.
All QR codes created with MultiLinkQR are static, including multi-link codes: the list of links is stored inside the code's own link.
What is a dynamic QR code?
A dynamic QR code stores a short redirect link owned by a QR code company. Every scan goes to their server first, which then forwards the visitor to your current destination.
- Editable: you can change where it points without reprinting.
- Scan statistics such as counts, times and rough locations.
- Usually a paid subscription. If the subscription ends or the company shuts down, printed codes can stop working or show the provider's page instead.
Comparison at a glance
| Static | Dynamic | |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Free | Usually a monthly or yearly fee |
| Works without a subscription | Yes, forever | No |
| Change destination after printing | No | Yes |
| Built-in scan statistics | No (use UTM tags on your own site) | Yes |
| Every scan passes through a third party | No | Yes |
| Best for | Business cards, packaging, menus, social links, anything long-lived | Campaigns whose destination will change, or where detailed scan data is essential |
The free trick: make a static code "flexible"
Most people choose dynamic codes because they worry their link might change. You can avoid that problem with a static code by pointing it at an address you control and can update:
- A page on your own website (for example
yoursite.com/menu). Change the page content any time; the QR code keeps working. - A Google Drive or Dropbox file. Replace the file with a new version ("Manage versions" in Google Drive) and the link stays the same.
- Profile links such as
instagram.com/yournamerarely change, so they're safe to print.
Combined with a multi-link code (menu, WhatsApp, reviews, Instagram), this covers what most small businesses need, without a subscription.
Measuring scans with a static code
Static codes have no scan counter, but you can still measure results. In MultiLinkQR, click + Add UTM params under any link and set, for example, utm_source=qrcode and utm_campaign=spring-flyer. Visits from the QR code then appear separately in Google Analytics (or your shop's analytics) for that website.
When you really need a dynamic code
- You are printing large volumes (for example thousands of product labels) and the destination is likely to change.
- You need detailed scan data by time and location for a campaign report.
- You want to redirect by device, for example to the App Store or Google Play automatically.
For everything else, a free static code is simpler and more reliable. Our guide to multi-destination QR codes explains how a list of links can replace many dynamic-code use cases.
Frequently asked questions
Do static QR codes expire?
No. A static code works as long as the page it points to exists. With MultiLinkQR you can optionally set an expiry date for multi-link codes, for example for a limited offer.
Can I turn a static code into a dynamic one later?
No. The destination is part of the printed pattern, so you'd create and print a new code.
Are static codes less secure?
No. There's no account to hack and no redirect server in between. As with any QR code, only link to HTTPS pages you trust. MultiLinkQR only accepts https:// links.
Create a free static QR code
No subscription, no expiry unless you set one, and multiple links in one code if you need them.
Generate QR Code Free Read More Guides