Static QR codes versus dynamic QR codes
Static QR codes are the traditional and most direct form of QR codes. With a static QR code, all information is stored directly in the code itself. This information cannot be modified after creating the code. This is in contrast to dynamic QR codes, where only a short URL is stored that references a server where the actual destination can be adjusted.
How do static QR codes work?
A static QR code contains the complete, unchangeable information directly in the pattern of the code itself. When you create a static QR code for a website, the full URL is stored directly in the code. When someone scans the QR code, they are taken directly to the website, without the intervention of an external server.
The technology behind static QR codes
Static QR codes are based on a matrix pattern of black and white squares, which together can encode a certain amount of data. The technology works as follows:
- The data (URL, text, telephone number, etc.) is converted into binary code
- This binary code is translated into the characteristic pattern of black and white squares
- A scanner (such as a smartphone camera) decodes this pattern
- The scanner displays the encoded information or performs an action directly (such as opening a website)
Static QR codes have built-in error correction, which means they can still be scanned even if part of the code is damaged or covered. Depending on the level of error correction, up to 30% of the code can be damaged and still remain readable.
Advantages of static QR codes
Static QR codes are easy to create
Static QR codes are easy to create and use, without requiring an account or subscription. You create the code once and can use it immediately.
No internet required with static QR codes
Because all information is stored directly in the QR code itself, you don't need an external server to make the code work. This means that your static QR codes will continue to function forever, without ongoing costs. If you have included a URL in the QR code, internet is needed to access the correct website.
Complete control over data
Your personal or business data is not shared with or stored on external servers. This can be advantageous when privacy is an important consideration.
Static QR codes are usually free
Static QR codes are usually free to create and require no subscription. For basic or simple applications such as sharing a website, telephone number or email address, static QR codes are a good option because they are free.
Static QR codes work immediately
Static QR codes work immediately after they are created, without requiring activation or configuration of a service.
Applications of static QR codes
For businesses
- Business cards: Share your contact details or LinkedIn profile
- Product labels: Link to static product information or manuals
- Posters and advertisements: Link to your website or a specific landing page
- Menus: Link to nutritional information or allergens
- Technical documentation: Access to manuals or instructional videos
For personal use
- Sharing your contact details: Create a vCard QR code for your personal information
- WiFi access: Create a QR code that allows guests to quickly connect to your WiFi network
- Social media profiles: Share your profiles on social networks
- Email or telephone number: Create direct contact options via a QR code
- Event information: Share static information about an event such as location or programme
| Feature | Static QR codes | Dynamic QR codes |
|---|---|---|
| Modify content after creation | ✅ Not possible, but always conforms to original intention | ❌ Possible, but requires active management |
| Cost | ✅ Usually free | ❌ Premium service with subscription costs |
| Server dependency | ✅ No external server needed | ❌ Dependent on active server |
| Scan statistics | ❌ No insight into scans | ✅ Detailed analyses |
| Size of the QR code | ❌ Becomes larger with more information | ✅ Remains compact, regardless of the amount of information |
| Privacy | ✅ No data storage on external servers | ❌ Scan data is stored |
| Lifespan | ✅ QR code does not expire, as long as the QR code remains readable | ❌ Dependent on active subscription |
| Complexity | ✅ Easy to create and use | ❌ Requires account and configuration |
Example of a static QR code in practice
Imagine you have a small shop and you want to place QR codes on your products that link to your business website. With a static QR code:
- You create the QR code once with the web address of your shop
- You print these QR codes and attach them to your products or packaging
- Customers can scan the code and are taken directly to your website
- You don't need to worry about subscriptions or expired codes
- The code will continue to work as long as your website is available under the same URL
When you create a static QR code for this purpose, the full web address is stored directly in the QR code. When a customer scans the QR code, they are taken directly to your website without the intervention of an external service.
Why restaurants usually choose dynamic QR codes
For restaurants, dynamic QR codes are usually a better choice. Consider a restaurant that places QR codes on tables for the digital menu. With dynamic QR codes, the restaurant can:
- Update the menu daily without having to print new QR codes
- Display different menus depending on the time of day (lunch vs. dinner)
- Prominently display special offers or daily specials
- Gain insight into which tables view the menu most frequently
- Implement price adjustments directly when necessary
- Add or remove seasonal dishes
When to choose static QR codes?
Choose static QR codes if you:
- Are looking for a simple, direct solution without subscription costs
- Want to share information that doesn't change regularly
- Have no need for scan statistics
- Want to maintain full control over the data without external servers
- Want to create QR codes that work for an indefinite period
- Want to quickly and easily create QR codes without an account or configuration
Frequently asked questions about static 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 creation. A dynamic QR code contains only a short URL that references an external server, allowing the destination to be adjusted later.
2. Do I have to pay for static QR codes at qrcode-generator.nl?
No, static QR codes are free to create on qrcode-generator.nl. You can create unlimited static QR codes for various purposes at no cost.
3. How long do static QR codes remain active?
Static QR codes remain active forever. The code itself is a self-contained unit that directly contains the information. As long as the code remains physically readable and the destination (such as a website) exists, the code will continue to work.
4. Can I see who has scanned my static QR code?
No, with static QR codes, you gain no insight into who, when or where your code has been scanned. If you need scan statistics, dynamic QR codes are a better option.
5. Can I create multiple static QR codes?
Yes, you can create as many static QR codes as you want. There is no limit to the number of static QR codes you can create.
6. What happens if the information in my static QR code needs to change?
If the information in your static QR code needs to change (such as a new website URL), you must create a new QR code and replace all printed materials. The existing code cannot be updated.
7. Can I visually customise my static QR code?
Yes, you can customise your static QR code with colours, a logo and different styles, as long as the contrast between the dark and light areas is sufficient for scanners to read the code.
8. Do static QR codes work offline?
No internet connection is needed to scan the QR code itself. Whether the user needs internet after scanning depends on the type of information in the code. Internet is needed for a website URL, but not for a simple text message or telephone number.
9. How secure are static QR codes?
Static QR codes are inherently secure, as they only contain the information you store in them. However, they cannot be modified if the destination becomes unsafe or if the code is misused - in that case, you must replace all printed codes.
10. How much information can a static QR code contain?
A standard static QR code can contain approximately 4,000 alphanumeric characters. With larger amounts of information, the code becomes more complex and more difficult to scan, especially in smaller formats.
Getting started with static QR codes
Are you ready to use static QR codes for your personal or business purposes? With qrcode-generator.nl, you can start for free right away! Easily create a static QR code for your website, contact details, WiFi access or other applications, without having to create an account or worry about subscription costs.