QR code types explained

Understanding the differences between static, dynamic, and specialized QR codes to choose the right solution.

Static vs Dynamic: What's the difference?

Static QR codes

Data is encoded directly in the QR code pattern. Once created, it cannot be changed. Works offline and forever, but no tracking or updates possible.

Best for:

  • • Permanent information (website URLs, contact info)
  • • Privacy-conscious applications (no tracking)
  • • Long-term use without internet dependency

Dynamic QR codes

QR code contains a short link that redirects to your destination. Update destination anytime, track scans, collect data, and build custom experiences.

Best for:

  • • Marketing campaigns (measure ROI)
  • • Operational tracking (task verification)
  • • Anything that might change or needs analytics

Autonix specializes in dynamic QR codes

While we can generate static codes for simple use cases, our platform is built for organizations that need tracking, analytics, and operational intelligence from their QR codes.

Complete guide to QR code types

Static QR codes

Information is encoded directly in the QR code. Cannot be changed after creation.

Best for:

Business cards, permanent signage, product packaging, printed materials with static info.

Pros

  • ✓Work forever without internet
  • ✓No subscription required
  • ✓Privacy-friendly (no tracking)
  • ✓Fast scanning

Cons

  • ⚠Cannot update destination
  • ⚠No analytics or tracking
  • ⚠Must reprint to change
  • ⚠Limited data capacity

Dynamic QR codes

✓ Supported by Autonix

QR code points to a short link that redirects to your destination. Update anytime without reprinting.

Best for:

Marketing campaigns, operational tracking, visitor management, task verification, multi-location deployments.

Pros

  • ✓Update destination anytime
  • ✓Track scans with analytics
  • ✓Location and time tracking
  • ✓A/B testing capabilities

Cons

  • ⚠Requires internet connection
  • ⚠Depends on service provider
  • ⚠Usually requires subscription
  • ⚠Slightly slower (redirect)

WiFi QR codes

✓ Supported by Autonix

Encode WiFi network name and password. Users scan to connect automatically without typing.

Best for:

Guest WiFi access in offices, hotels, restaurants, conference centers, retail stores.

Pros

  • ✓Easy guest WiFi access
  • ✓No password typing
  • ✓Works on all devices
  • ✓Can be static or dynamic

Cons

  • ⚠Password is visible in QR code (if static)
  • ⚠Must regenerate when password changes
  • ⚠Some older devices may not support

vCard QR codes

Encode contact information (name, phone, email, address). Scans add contact to phone automatically.

Best for:

Business cards, email signatures, conference badges, networking events.

Pros

  • ✓Instant contact sharing
  • ✓No manual data entry
  • ✓Professional appearance
  • ✓Saves to phone contacts

Cons

  • ⚠Static by nature
  • ⚠Limited space for info
  • ⚠Must reprint to update

Location QR codes

✓ Supported by Autonix

Encode GPS coordinates or address. Opens in maps app when scanned.

Best for:

Event venues, retail stores, parking locations, delivery points, real estate showings.

Pros

  • ✓Direct navigation
  • ✓Universal (works with all map apps)
  • ✓Simple one-scan navigation

Cons

  • ⚠Static location only
  • ⚠No tracking (unless dynamic)

Event QR codes

✓ Supported by Autonix

Encode event details (date, time, location, description). Adds to calendar when scanned.

Best for:

Event invitations, conference schedules, webinar reminders, appointment cards.

Pros

  • ✓One-scan calendar add
  • ✓Reduces no-shows
  • ✓Includes reminders

Cons

  • ⚠Static event info
  • ⚠No attendance tracking (unless dynamic)

Document QR codes

✓ Supported by Autonix

Link to PDFs, menus, forms, or documents. Dynamic codes allow updating documents without reprinting.

Best for:

Restaurant menus, product manuals, safety documents, forms, brochures.

Pros

  • ✓Paperless distribution
  • ✓Always current (if dynamic)
  • ✓Analytics on views
  • ✓Version control

Cons

  • ⚠Requires internet
  • ⚠Large files load slowly

Multi-language QR codes

✓ Supported by Autonix

Detect user language and redirect to translated content. One code, multiple languages.

Best for:

Tourist attractions, international events, multilingual signage, global campaigns.

Pros

  • ✓Single code for all languages
  • ✓Automatic language detection
  • ✓Better user experience
  • ✓Easier to manage

Cons

  • ⚠Requires dynamic QR service
  • ⚠Must create translated content

Which QR code type should you use?

Use static QR codes when:

  • •Information will never change (permanent URLs, contact info)
  • •You don't need to track scans or collect analytics
  • •You want maximum privacy (no tracking at all)
  • •You need it to work offline forever

Use dynamic QR codes when:

  • •You need to track who scans, where, and when
  • •Content might change and you don't want to reprint
  • •You need to collect data from users (forms, check-ins)
  • •You want operational intelligence and reporting
  • •You're running campaigns and need ROI measurement

Try our free QR code generators

Create basic QR codes for common use cases. No signup required.

Free QR Code GeneratorWiFi QR Generator

Need dynamic QR codes with tracking and analytics?

Autonix is built for organizations that need operational intelligence, not just simple redirects.

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