Static vs Trackable QR Codes: Which Do You Need?
Choose trackable QR codes if you need scan analytics, device tracking, or geographic insights. QuikQR offers free static codes and dynamic plans from £4.99/month with a 14-day free trial. Static codes work for permanent links that never change, but trackable codes are better for business use.
Updated 19 February 2026
What Are Static QR Codes?
Static QR codes encode data directly into the pattern itself. The destination URL is baked into the black-and-white squares. Once printed, a static QR code cannot be changed — if the URL changes, you need a new QR code. Static codes are best for permanent, unchanging links.
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Fixed destination
The URL is permanent. Cannot be updated after creation.
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No analytics
No way to track scans, devices, or locations.
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Denser pattern
Long URLs create more complex, harder-to-scan patterns.
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Always free
Can be generated with any free QR code tool.
What Are Trackable QR Codes?
Trackable QR codes use a short redirect URL that points to your actual destination. This redirect-based architecture enables powerful scan analytics — tracking when, where, and how people scan your code — while keeping the QR pattern cleaner and easier to scan.
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Redirect-based architecture
Uses a short redirect URL, enabling scan tracking and creating a cleaner QR pattern.
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Scan analytics
Track scans by device, browser, operating system, and country.
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Simpler pattern
Short redirect URL creates a cleaner, easier-to-scan pattern.
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Affordable plans available
QuikQR offers trackable QR codes on dynamic plans from £4.99/month with a 14-day free trial.
When to Choose Static vs Trackable
Use static QR codes for permanent links that will never change — like a link to your main website or a fixed PDF document. Use trackable QR codes for anything that needs tracking or serves a business purpose. For most business applications, trackable QR codes are the better choice.
Full Feature Comparison
| Feature | Static QR Code | Trackable QR Code |
|---|---|---|
| Redirect-based (enables analytics) | No | Yes |
| Scan tracking & analytics | No | Yes |
| Device/browser/country data | No | Yes |
| Pattern complexity | Higher (long URLs) | Lower (short redirect) |
| Works if URL changes | No — code breaks | Redirect keeps working |
| Best for | Permanent links, simple use | Business, marketing, menus |
| Cost with QuikQR | N/A (use any free tool) | Free (static) / from £4.99/mo with a 14-day free trial (dynamic) |
| Cost with subscription services | Often free | £15–£25/month |
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers about Static vs Trackable QR Codes: Which Do You Need?.
Trackable QR codes are better for business use. They enable scan analytics with device and geographic tracking, and create cleaner patterns thanks to short redirect URLs. QuikQR offers free static codes and dynamic plans from £4.99/month with a 14-day free trial.
You cannot convert an existing static QR code to trackable. You need to create a new trackable QR code and reprint your materials. To avoid this, start with trackable codes from the beginning.
Static QR codes are free with QuikQR. Trackable QR codes on dynamic plans start from £4.99/month with a 14-day free trial — significantly lower than competitors charging £15–25/month.