Dynamic QR codes versus static QR codes
Dynamic QR codes are the advanced version of traditional QR codes. With a dynamic QR code, you can change the destination (URL) after the QR code has been created and printed. This is in contrast to static QR codes, where the information is embedded directly in the code itself and cannot be modified after generating the code.
How do dynamic QR codes work?
A dynamic QR code stores a short URL instead of the full destination URL. This short URL refers to our qrcode-generator.nl server, which then redirects to the actual destination you have specified. This makes it possible to adjust the destination without changing the QR code itself.
The technology behind dynamic QR codes
Dynamic QR codes use a redirect system that works via a central database. When you create a dynamic QR code, a unique ID is generated that is linked to your desired destination. This ID is processed into a short URL that is stored in the QR code.
The process works as follows:
- A user scans the QR code with a smartphone
- The smartphone opens the short URL stored in the QR code
- Our server receives this request and searches the database for the corresponding destination
- The server registers the scan (time, location, device) for your statistics
- The server immediately redirects the user to the desired destination
All of this happens in a fraction of a second, so the user hardly notices that there is an intermediate step.
Advantages of dynamic QR codes
Flexibility
You can adjust the destination of the QR code at any time, even after the QR code has been printed and distributed. This is ideal for marketing campaigns, menus, product packaging, or business cards that are regularly updated.
Comprehensive statistics
You gain insight into the number of scans of your QR code, including valuable information such as:
- Date and time of each scan
- Geographic location of the user
- Device type and operating system
- Browser data
- Referring websites
This data helps you optimise your marketing and communication strategies.
Multiple destinations
With one dynamic QR code, you can set different destinations based on specific parameters such as:
- Location (direct users to country-specific pages)
- Time of day (morning, afternoon, evening, weekend)
- Device type (different experience for mobile versus desktop)
- User's language (automatic redirection to content in the appropriate language)
Advanced features
Dynamic QR codes at qrcode-generator.nl offer more than just URL redirects:
- vCard QR codes for sharing contact details
- WiFi QR codes for easy network access
- Google Maps QR codes for locations and directions
- Google Reviews QR codes for collecting customer feedback
- Email and SMS QR codes for direct communication
- Calendar QR codes for adding events
- Social media profile QR codes
Better performance and design
Dynamic QR codes can be scanned faster because they contain less data than static QR codes. Additionally, you can:
- Customise them with your own logo or brand colours
- Design them with different patterns and styles
- Test them for scannability for optimal results
- Export them in high resolution for professional printing
Static versus dynamic QR codes: A comparison
| Feature | Static QR codes | Dynamic QR codes |
|---|---|---|
| Modify content after creation | ❌ Not possible | ✅ Possible at any time |
| Scan statistics | ❌ No insights | ✅ Detailed analytics |
| Size of the QR code | ❌ Becomes larger with more information | ✅ Remains compact, regardless of the amount of information |
| Multiple destinations | ❌ Fixed destination | ✅ Variable destinations possible |
| Advanced tracking | ❌ Not available | ✅ Advanced insights |
| Adding brand identity | ⚠️ Limited possibility | ✅ Fully customisable |
| QR code correction afterwards | ❌ Not possible | ✅ Always correctable |
| Cost | ✅ Usually free | ⚠️ Premium service |
| Server dependency | ✅ No server dependency | ⚠️ Requires active server connection |
Applications of dynamic QR codes
For businesses
- Product packaging: Update product information, manuals, or promotions without changing the packaging
- Marketing campaigns: Measure the effectiveness of different marketing channels with unique QR codes
- Menus: Adjust dishes, prices, or special offers without reprinting
- Events: Direct visitors to the most up-to-date information or programme changes
- Staff training: Connect physical equipment or locations with digital training videos or manuals
For personal use
- Business cards: Always keep your contact details up-to-date
- Portfolio presentations: Present your most recent work without making new prints
- Social media profile: Create one QR code that always directs to your most used social media platform
- Personal events: Send guests to the latest updates about your wedding, party, or reunion
Example of a dynamic QR code in practice
Imagine you have a restaurant and want to place QR codes on your tables for the digital menu. With a dynamic QR code, you can:
- Update the menu at any time with new dishes or prices
- Display different menus based on time of day (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
- Add special offers for quiet periods
- Measure which tables view the menu most frequently
- Prominently display seasonal dishes
When you generate a dynamic QR code for this purpose, a short URL is stored in the QR code that refers to our server. When a guest scans the QR code, they are first directed to the qrcode-generator.nl server and then redirected to your digital menu.
If you later decide to change the menu, you simply adjust the redirection on our server. The QR code itself remains unchanged, but now leads guests to the updated menu.
Security aspects of dynamic QR codes
Dynamic QR codes also offer advantages in terms of security:
- Phishing protection: You can monitor suspicious activities and adjust the destination if your QR code is misused
- Access control: Restrict access to specific times or user groups
- Audit trail: Keep track of who, when, and where your QR codes have been scanned
- Set expiry date: Create QR codes that automatically expire after a certain period
Why choose dynamic QR codes?
Choose dynamic QR codes if you:
- May want to change the destination of your QR code in the future
- Want to gain insight into user scanning behaviour
- Want to set different destinations based on specific parameters
- Are looking for a professional and flexible QR code solution
- Want to better measure and optimise marketing campaigns
- Want to extend the lifespan of your printed materials
Frequently asked questions about dynamic QR codes
1. What is the difference between a static and a dynamic QR code?
A static QR code contains all information directly in the code itself and cannot be modified after generation. A dynamic QR code contains only a short URL that refers to our server, allowing you to adjust the destination later.
2. Do I have to pay for dynamic QR codes at qrcode-generator.nl?
Yes, dynamic QR codes are a premium service due to the additional functionalities and management of the redirect server. We offer various subscriptions depending on your needs.
3. How long do dynamic QR codes remain active?
As long as your subscription is active, your dynamic QR codes will work. At qrcode-generator.nl, we offer various subscription durations, from monthly to yearly.
4. Can I see who has scanned my QR code?
You cannot see personal data of people who scan your QR code. However, you do get insight into the number of scans, the location (country/city), the time, and the type of device used for scanning.
5. Can I manage multiple dynamic QR codes?
Yes, within your account at qrcode-generator.nl, you can create and manage multiple dynamic QR codes. The maximum number depends on the subscription you have chosen.
6. What happens if my subscription expires?
When your subscription expires, your dynamic QR codes become inactive. People who scan the QR code will then land on a standard page. You can renew your subscription to reactivate your QR codes.
7. Can I visually customise my dynamic QR code?
Certainly! You can personalise your dynamic QR code with your own logo, colours, and styles. The QR code remains fully functional as long as you stay within the parameters for scannability.
8. Do dynamic QR codes also work offline?
No internet connection is needed to scan the QR code itself, but the user does need internet to go to the destination. This applies to all QR codes that refer to online content.
9. How secure are dynamic QR codes?
Dynamic QR codes are very secure. At qrcode-generator.nl, we use encrypted connections and secure servers. Moreover, you can always adjust the destination if you suspect your QR code is being misused.
10. Can I adjust the URL of my dynamic QR code?
The short URL stored in the QR code cannot be adjusted. However, you can change the ultimate destination URL at any time without affecting the QR code itself.
Getting started with dynamic QR codes
Are you ready to experience the benefits of dynamic QR codes? Create an account at qrcode-generator.nl today and discover how easy it is to create professional, customisable QR codes that take your marketing strategy to the next level.