Many users who are new to QR codes need to learn the difference between Static vs. Dynamic QR codes when they get started.
That is to decrease the feeling of remorse after faulty creation.
Sometimes, unknowingly creating a Static QR code instead of a Dynamic one may lead to catastrophic results.
Let’s not lose time and dive right in.
What is a Static QR code?
We all have encountered a Static QR code at some point in our lives.
These QR codes were widely used because they were invented before the dynamic ones.
However, it is better to know the functionality and usage of these types of QRs before creating them.
First, you need to consider that Static QR Codes can’t be overwritten once generated, and the information stored in them cannot be edited.
Static QR codes are helpful in situations where the QR code does not need to be changed.
So, if you plan to make a QR to display data that will not be changed, you should go with the Static QR code.
One-off campaigns and cases where data doesn’t need to be updated make Static QR Codes ideal.
A Static QR code has a fixed URL embedded within it.
The URL is part of the QR code pattern, which means that once generated, the destination address of the data or URL cannot be changed because this type of code stores fixed information.
Also, it only leads to one URL and does not allow you to track scan data.
There is no way to modify the embedded code because it is hard-coded.
To wrap it up:
- It is not possible to edit the document after it has been created.
- It is not possible to track scan performance.
- It cannot be used for retargeting online
- In terms of URL, it is long and chunky.
- It takes longer to scan.
- It is not possible to deliver multiple campaigns at the same time.
What is a Dynamic QR code?
Have you ever seen QR codes on restaurant menus?
Imagine how expensive it would be for restaurant owners if they had to print a new menu every time their QR code needed an update.
Due to the embedded short URLs in Dynamic QR codes, the user can be directed to the destination website.
Changing the destination URL after the QR code has been generated is possible, but the short URL will remain the same.
It is possible to track data and edit your URL or content at any time with a Dynamic QR code. As a result, you will save time and money on printing.
When it comes to marketing, Dynamic QR codes add value because you can track how many QR codes have been scanned, when they were scanned, and where they were scanned (city/country).
You can extract valuable data from Dynamic QR codes, such as the number of total scans, unique visitors, average scans per day, location, and device type (iPhone/Android).
To wrap it up:
- It is possible to edit this document as many times as needed.
- It is possible to track the performance of a scan.
- Online retargeting can be accomplished through Google and Facebook.
- The URL is short and clean.
- Scan faster.
- Multiple campaigns can be delivered according to a schedule.
What is the difference between Dynamic and Static QR codes?
The differences between Static and Dynamic QR codes are as follows:
There is no way to edit Static QR codes once they have been created, they cannot be tracked, and they cannot be used to retarget online.
In contrast, Dynamic QR codes allow you to edit QR code content as often as needed, can be tracked, and can be used to retarget people online on sites like Facebook and Google.
As the QR code image is less dense than a Static QR code, Dynamic QR codes can be scanned more easily.
It is possible to protect a Dynamic QR code with a password as opposed to a Static QR code.
One-time QR codes could be better for business use and have a limitation to their content.
Static QR codes should only be used for personal purposes.
QR codes with dynamic data tracking allow you to monitor scans, scanner location, and time in real time, and your URL can be edited at any time to any other URL.
How to make a Dynamic QR Code
The following steps will guide you through creating a Dynamic QR code:
- Access QR Code Creator.
- Select the QR code type you wish to create.
- Be sure to fill out all the relevant information.
- Make the QR code unique using different templates, frames, data patterns, etc.
- Verify that the QR code scans error-free after it has been generated by testing it.
- Download the QR code and deploy the QR code.
Use cases of Static and Dynamic QR Codes.
Static QR Code
1. You can make a QR code for your email so your customers can automatically send you an email by scanning a QR code instead of typing the address manually.
Specifying the recipient’s email address and the body of the email is possible.
2. Bitcoin wallet addresses are very long and complicated, and it is impossible to remember them. Create a Static QR code that displays your BTC wallet address to make it easy to use.
Dynamic QR Code
1. If a clothing company had to make a QR code that directs users to the clothes and accessories they sell, there would be better options than the Static QR code.
They would have to print a new QR code whenever they change to a new collection. However, by creating a Dynamic QR code, they need to edit the content of the QR every time they change collection, or if a specific item is out of stock, they can delete it or mark it as “out of stock.”
This will save them time, and they will only need to print the code once.
2. Imagine that you have created a VCard QR code and made dozens of business cards with that QR code, which illustrates your contact info.
However, three months later, you forgot the password for your email address and could not change it or lost access to it.
Dynamic QR codes are helpful in this situation.
While your QR code remains the same, you can change it anytime.
Reprinting is not necessary.
Static vs. Dynamic QR code payment
Merchant names and bank details will be included in a Static QR code payment, which cannot be edited.
Before proceeding with the transaction, the customer must enter the amount.
QR code payments are ideal for one-time promotions or offers in restaurants, malls, and brick-and-mortar stores.
On the other hand, QR code payments that change with every transaction are referred to as Dynamic QR Code payments.
Since the merchant’s name and bank details are included along with the amount to be paid, customers don’t have to enter it manually.
Payment can be made directly by the customer after scanning.
Which is better? A Static or Dynamic QR code?
It depends on the use, the objectives you wish to achieve, and the measurements of the success of your marketing campaigns.
As long as one does not intend to measure or analyze the performance of the QR code, a Static code would be perfect if one is looking to create a single-use QR code for the purpose of sharing permanent information or short-term announcements and not planning to measure or analyze the performance.
The Dynamic QR code will be the best choice if the person intends to create QR codes that will be used on a daily basis and will be part of an extensive marketing campaign that requires tracking, analysis, and adjustments throughout the campaign.
It’s highly recommended that you use dynamic codes just in case any editing or modifications need to be made to the printed materials in the future, especially if mistakes have been made.
Final thoughts
Even though both of them look similar, which one to choose depends on you and your needs.
Using Static QR codes for one-time campaigns or personal use is only recommended. Additionally, Static QR Codes do not support online retargeting.
It is highly recommended to use Dynamic QR codes for all sorts of marketing campaigns since they allow the QR Code destination or content to be changed even after it has been created.
There is no need to reproduce and reprint QR codes as a result.
Furthermore, Dynamic QR Codes allow you to optimize your marketing campaigns with comprehensive QR scan tracking.
The QR Code can also be retargeted to people who have scanned it but have yet to convert (on Google and Facebook).
FAQ:
Q. Can a Dynamic QR code be changed to static?
Ans: No, a Dynamic QR code cannot be changed to a Static QR code. If you want a Static QR code, create a new one.
Q. How can you tell if a QR code is Static or Dynamic?
Ans: With a Static QR, the user will go directly to your URL and need to click the link to access the website.
However, Dynamic QR Codes take you directly to the website.
An experienced content manager specializing in making complex ideas accessible and engaging. With a background in creating clear, compelling narratives that educate and inspire audiences with a broad background in multiple fields. Passionate about technology, careers, and innovation. Expert in content strategy and development.
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