Static vs Dynamic QR Codes
Static QR codes encode a fixed URL directly into the QR pattern. They cannot be edited after creation but never expire. Dynamic QR codes use a short redirect URL managed by a service, allowing the destination to be changed without reprinting. The key difference is permanence vs flexibility: static codes are permanent but fixed; dynamic codes are editable but depend on a service.
What Is a Static QR Code?
A static QR code encodes data directly into the QR pattern itself.
When scanned, the phone reads the URL or data from the image. No external server is needed to process the scan. The destination is embedded in the code.
Because static QR codes do not rely on any service, they never expire. As long as the destination URL remains valid, the code works indefinitely.
Limitation: Static QR codes cannot be edited after creation. If you need to change the destination, you must generate a new QR code and reprint it.
What Is a Dynamic QR Code?
A dynamic QR code encodes a short redirect URL that points to a server.
When scanned, the phone visits the redirect URL. The server then forwards the user to the final destination. This intermediate step allows the destination to be changed at any time without altering the QR code image.
Dynamic QR codes also enable scan tracking, as the server can log each visit before redirecting.
Trade-off: Dynamic QR codes depend on a service to process the redirect. If the service is discontinued, the code stops working. The longevity of a dynamic QR code depends on the business model of the provider.
Key Differences Between Static and Dynamic QR Codes
| Feature | Static QR Code | Dynamic QR Code |
|---|---|---|
| Destination | Fixed (encoded in image) | Editable (managed by server) |
| Editable after printing? | No | Yes |
| Expiration risk | None (independent of services) | Depends on provider model |
| Service dependency | None | Requires active redirect service |
| Scan tracking | Not possible | Possible |
| Typical cost | Free | Varies (subscription or one-time) |
| Best for | Permanent, unchanging destinations | Content that may change over time |
Do Static or Dynamic QR Codes Expire?
Static QR codes do not expire. Dynamic QR codes may.
Static QR codes encode the destination directly. There is no external dependency to fail. As long as the destination URL exists, the code works.
Dynamic QR codes depend on a redirect service. If the provider requires a subscription and payment stops, the redirect is disabled. If the provider shuts down, the redirect stops working. However, dynamic QR codes from providers with one-time payment models can also be permanent, as there is no recurring fee to cancel.
When to Use a Static QR Code
Static QR codes are appropriate when:
- The destination will never change. Direct links to websites, social profiles, or documents that are permanent.
- Long-term printing without service dependency. Memorial plaques, museum exhibits, or historical markers.
- Cost is a constraint. Static codes are typically free to generate.
- No tracking is needed. When scan analytics are not required.
- Maximum simplicity is preferred. No accounts, no logins, no management.
- Offline or air-gapped environments. Where reliance on external services is unacceptable.
When to Use a Dynamic QR Code
Dynamic QR codes are appropriate when:
- The destination may change. Menus, promotional offers, or event details that update over time.
- Scan tracking is needed. Campaigns where you want to measure engagement.
- Printed materials are expensive to replace. Product packaging, signage, or business cards where reprinting is costly.
- You want to reuse the same QR code for multiple purposes. Real estate signs where the listing changes.
- You need to fix errors after printing. Typos or broken links can be corrected without reprinting.
- Compliance or audit trails are required. When you need records of scan activity.
Which Is Better for Printed Materials?
For printed materials, the primary concern is longevity. The printed code cannot be updated, so it must continue working for the life of the material.
Risk: If you use a subscription-based service for dynamic QR codes, the code will stop working if you stop paying. This is why "Lifetime" dynamic codes are essential for long-term use.
Recommendation: Go Dynamic, But Avoid Subscriptions
Dynamic codes are far superior for business use because they can be tracked and edited. The only downside is the "rent" (monthly fees).
See how our Permanent Dynamic Codes workDynamic QR codes can also be safe for long-term printing, but only if the provider does not require ongoing payments. Subscription-based dynamic codes carry risk: if payment stops, the printed code breaks.
The safest approach for printed materials is to use either static codes or dynamic codes from a provider with a one-time payment model. Avoid subscription-based services for anything that will be printed and distributed.
How LifetimeQRCodes.com Supports Both
LifetimeQRCodes.com offers static QR codes for free and editable (dynamic) QR codes for a one-time payment of $29 per code. Static codes can be generated without an account. Editable codes include the ability to change the destination and view scan counts. There are no subscriptions, no scan limits, and no expiration dates for either type.
Common Questions
What is the difference between static and dynamic QR codes?
Static QR codes encode a fixed URL directly in the image and cannot be edited. Dynamic QR codes use a redirect URL managed by a service, allowing the destination to be changed without reprinting.
Do static QR codes expire?
No. Static QR codes do not expire because they do not depend on any external service. They work as long as the destination URL is valid.
Do dynamic QR codes expire?
It depends on the provider. Subscription-based dynamic codes may stop working if payment ends. One-time payment dynamic codes do not expire because there is no subscription to cancel.
Can static QR codes be edited?
No. The destination is encoded directly in the QR pattern. To change the destination, you must create a new QR code.
Are dynamic QR codes permanent?
They can be. Dynamic QR codes from one-time payment providers are permanent because there is no recurring fee. Dynamic codes from subscription providers are only active while the subscription is paid.
See the Platform In Action
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Lifetime QR Codes Analytics
See scans, devices, and top links at a glance — no subscription required.
Total scans
12,407
+26% vs previous period
Unique visitors
8,291
Last 24h
412
Avg scans / QR
4
Peak
Wednesday 14:00–15:00
Last 7 days
Daily scans
By device
By OS
Top regions
Top QR codes
- Menu – Main3,124
- Business Card vCard2,891
- Product Page2,103
- Event RSVP1,842
- PDF – Brochure1,247
Create a Static or Editable QR Code
Static codes are free. Editable codes are $29 one-time. No subscriptions.
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