Static vs dynamic QR code: what is the difference?
Updated 2026-10-17
A dynamic QR code is a QR code whose destination you can change after it’s printed, and which can count its scans. A regular QR code whose destination can’t change is called a static QR code.
The difference in one sentence: a static QR code holds the URL itself, so it can’t be changed after printing; a dynamic QR code holds a short redirect link, so you can change the destination after printing and count scans.
The differences at a glance
| Static | Dynamic | |
|---|---|---|
| What’s inside | The destination URL itself | A short redirect link |
| Change destination after printing | No | Yes, any number of times |
| Scan counts | No | Yes |
| Pattern density | Denser as the URL gets longer | Short content, easier to scan |
| Cost | Any free generator | Needs a service to run the redirect |
How dynamic QR codes work
A dynamic QR code holds a short redirect link from the service, not your final URL. When scanned, the redirect instantly sends the visitor to whatever destination is set right now. You change that destination in a dashboard, so the printed code stays the same while the destination changes. Because every scan passes through the redirect, it can also be counted.
When to use which
- Dynamic: menus, flyers, posters, packaging, events. Anything where the link might change or you want to know how often it’s scanned.
- Static: Wi-Fi details, a contact card, anything that never changes. No service needed.
What to watch out for
- The code depends on the service. With a monthly plan, codes can stop working if you cancel. For print that lives for years, check how you pay.
- Scan limits. Some plans cap scans.
- Scans, not people. Dynamic codes count how many times a code was scanned, not how many different people scanned it.
Make a dynamic QR code with QRMaple
- Pick a plan (a one-time payment, not a subscription)
- Paste your URL and press “Create QR code”
- Download and print. Change the destination any time from “Edit & stats”
QRMaple includes unlimited dynamic QR codes and unlimited scans. Plain black-and-white static QR codes are free with no sign-up.
FAQ
- Can I make a dynamic QR code for free?
- Some services offer free dynamic codes with limits on scans or time. On QRMaple, static codes are free and dynamic codes come with a one-time paid plan.
- Do dynamic QR codes expire?
- The code itself never expires, but it can stop working if the service plan behind it ends. QRMaple is not a subscription, so there is no plan to lapse.
- Can I turn a static code into a dynamic one?
- No. A static code has the URL written into it, so you need to create a dynamic code and reprint.