Static vs dynamic QR codes: why “free” QR codes stop working
You printed menus, flyers or packaging with a QR code from a “free” generator. Months later it opens an “upgrade your plan” page instead of your website. That code was dynamic, and the company behind it switched it off.
The difference
| Static QR code | Dynamic QR code | |
|---|---|---|
| What is inside | Your actual link, Wi-Fi details or text | A short link owned by the generator company |
| Expires? | Never | When the company decides: end of trial, unpaid plan, or the company closing |
| Edit destination later | No; make a new code | Yes, while you keep paying |
| Scan tracking | No (use your own website analytics) | Yes, by the company |
| Privacy | Scans go straight to you | Every scan passes through a third party |
| Cost | Free forever | Usually a monthly subscription |
How to tell which one you have
Scan the code and look at the address your phone shows before opening it. If it is your own website, it is static. If it is a short link on the generator’s domain (often with random characters), it is dynamic and depends on that company.
Get the best of both
Need to change the destination later without paying anyone? Make a static code that points to a page on your website, such as yoursite.com/menu, and update that page whenever you like. You keep editability and lose the expiry risk.
Make a static QR code that never expires
Frequently asked questions
Why did my QR code stop working?
Most likely it was a dynamic code from a generator that ended your free trial or subscription. The code points to the generator’s short link, and they turned that link off or replaced it with an upgrade page.
Can I fix a QR code that has already been printed?
Only the company that owns the short link can turn it back on. If you cannot (or do not want to) pay them, you will need to make a new static code and reprint.
Do static QR codes ever expire?
No. A static code contains the destination itself. Any phone can read it forever, with no service involved.