Use-Case Decision Guide · QR Tools
Dynamic QR Codes Are Overused. Static Ones Do the Job for 80% of People.
QR code tools love to upsell dynamic codes. Dynamic codes are genuinely useful — but for a restaurant menu, a business card, or a product label, a static QR is faster, free, and works forever without a subscription. Here's how to tell which one you actually need.
Static QR
- URL/data baked into the QR pattern
- Cannot be changed after printing
- No server dependency — works forever
- No scan count tracking
- Free on any tool, including Shrinkify
Dynamic QR
- QR points to a redirect URL (editable)
- Destination can change after printing
- Requires a hosting server to redirect
- Tracks scan analytics (location, device, time)
- Requires paid plan on qr-code-generator.com
⚠️ Dynamic QR risk: If the hosting company shuts down or your subscription lapses, printed dynamic QRs stop working. Static QRs have no such dependency.
What are you generating QR codes for?
Static QR is enough✓ Shrinkify covers this
Menu URL doesn't change. Static QR is permanent, free, and works forever. Dynamic tracking adds no value.
Verified feature comparison
Static QR codes✓ Free, unlimited✓ Free, unlimited, no account
Dynamic QR codes✓ Free (50 scans/mo) / Paid for more✗ Static only
Scan analytics✓ Paid plans✗ Not available
SVG export✓ Available✓ Available
Logo/image overlay✓ Some options free, more paid✓ Full color + logo, free
Editable after print✓ Dynamic QR only (paid)✗ Static — fixed at generation
No account neededStatic QR: yes / Dynamic: requires login✓ No account, ever
Works offline✗ Requires internet✓ After first load
Static QR? Need logo + SVG + custom colors?