There are two types of Quick Response codes: Dynamic, and Static. Knowing the differences between a Dynamic vs Static QR code will help you choose the best one for your needs.
QR codes have been a key tool for a lot of businesses ever since their appearance in the ’90s. Created by the Japanese company Denso Wave, they were first used to track vehicle parts in the automotive manufacturing industry. Nowadays you can find them in restaurants, on payment solutions, website logins, loyalty programs, and so forth.
What is a QR Code?
A QR code is a type of barcode that has information regarding a product, website, or other item. Though QR codes are a type of barcode, they differ from barcodes. QR Codes are square-shaped with a grid pattern and have 3 mini squares on 3 of the edges. Anyone who owns an electronic device that has a camera, i.e. a mobile phone, or a tablet can scan the code. These codes are usually quicker to deliver information as compared to other types of barcodes, hence their name.
What separates the traditional UPC barcode from a Dynamic or Static QR code is mainly dimension. UPC barcodes are one-dimensional, which means that they can only be scanned horizontally with a special red beam. QR codes, on the other hand, are two-dimensional and can be scanned from any angle, vertically or horizontally.
What is a Static QR Code?
A Static QR code is a type of code that is unmodifiable after it goes live. They‘re quite useful for information that doesn’t need to be updated frequently, like ID, product numbers, and one-time events. In terms of appearance, Static and Dynamic QR codes both have the standard QR code look. Since you can’t edit Static QR codes you must create a brand new one to add or remove information.
What is a Dynamic QR Code?
A Dynamic QR code allows you to alter the information on it whenever you like without having to create a new one. Many businesses prefer Dynamic QR codes for their versatility. These codes are better for information that frequently needs updating such as restaurant menus, orders, and multimedia content.
What is the Difference Between a Static and Dynamic QR Code?
Here are the main differences between a Static QR code and a Dynamic QR code.
| Static QR codes: | Dynamic QR codes: |
| Cannot be edited after their creation | Can be edited anytime |
| Are not trackable | Are trackable |
| Tedious to scan | Easy to scan |
| Cannot be used for retargeting online | Can be used for retargeting online |
How can you tell if a QR Code is Static or Dynamic?
There are a few ways to find out whether a code is Static or Dynamic. Firstly, if you created the QR code, you can go to your account. If your account displays the number of scans and offers scan statistics, it is a Dynamic QR code. Additionally, scanning a Dynamic QR code will direct you to a short URL in your browser whereas a Static QR code will take you to a landing page. Static QR codes will not show scan statistics.
What are Dynamic and Static QR Codes Used For?
Both types of codes are useful in their own way. However, when it comes to flexibility, Dynamic QR codes take the cake.
Dynamic
Dynamic QR codes are an amazing tool for marketing and business as they have tracking capabilities. In addition to the number of scans, you can track information like time of scanning, location, and device type. This data allows you to have a better lead on your current and potential customers.
You can find Dynamic QR codes on food/drink menus, payments, the nutritional value of products, and more. You can also use them to join a Wi-Fi network.
Static
The difference between the features of Dynamic and Static QR codes is pretty significant. Static codes don’t facilitate a business in any way. They are only useful in cases such as event hosting, marketing campaigns, email signatures, etc.
How to Create a Static QR Code
Follow these steps to create a Static QR Code:
- Go to an online QR Code generator site
- Choose a Static QR Code
- Enter data on the code
- Personalize the code
- Generate and test the code
- Download the code
How to Create a Dynamic QR Code
The steps to create a Dynamic QR Code are more or less the same:
- Go on an online QR Code generator site
- Choose a Dynamic QR Code
- Enter data on the code
- Personalize the code
- Generate and test the code
- Download the code
- Keep the code updated
Is it Possible to Convert a QR Code from Dynamic to Static, or Vice Versa?
Due to the nature of the QR codes, you cannot convert a Dynamic or Static QR Code into one another. If something goes wrong, you must make a new QR code of your choice.
Static vs Dynamic QR Code: Which is Better?
If we were to judge by versatility, then the Dynamic QR Code beats the Dynamic vs Static QR Code. Even so, in some situations, Static QR Codes can outshine Dynamic QR codes because they do not require maintenance. Ultimately, Dynamic QR Codes fulfill business needs but Static codes may be better for personal use.
Final Thoughts
Before creating a QR code, consider its purpose. Are you using it to send customers to a specific URL? Or maybe you’re using it to accept QR code payments. Now that you know the difference between Static and Dynamic QR codes, what they are used for, and how to create them, you can decide which is best for your needs.
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