Dynamic QR Codes 101: Here's How They Work

What are dynamic QR codes? Dynamic QR codes are an advanced type of QR code as they are editable and have a tracking feature.

They also have short URLs, which actually enable them to expand their capacity to store more information other than links and texts.

Furthermore, dynamic QRs have multiple integrations with different software, such as Google Analytics, Zapier, HubSpot, Canva, and Monday.com.

It also has more features: edit QR code design, QR code password, expiry, retarget tool, GPS tracking (& geofencing), and email scan notifications.

But do you know how they really work?

These advanced and flexible QR codes were specially designed as a new-generation marketing tool to target customers while keeping things fun and engaging.

Using a reliable QR code generator like QR TIGER, creating a custom dynamic QR code with a logo is easy.

In this guide, you'll be able to understand what are dynamic QR codes, how they really work, and how to create one for free.

What are dynamic QR codes?

Dynamic QR codes are advanced quick response codes that lead users or scanners to a specific webpage or landing page. They work just like any QR code, but they're editable and trackable.

These advanced 2D barcodes have short URLs to store more information besides texts and links.

They can also store a custom page, digital business cards, and files like documents, audio, videos, and images.

Aside from its storage capacity, they’re also packed with advanced features.

Using a dynamic code generator, you can easily make a dynamic QR code. Take note that you cannot convert a static QR code into a dynamic QR.

Since the stored data is not hard-coded to the QR code, users can edit or update it anytime. Users can also track their dynamic QR code to monitor its performance.

Here’s more: they also come with built-in features.

QR TIGER dynamic QR code users can:

• Update the destination URL and other information it contains
• Control QR code access by adding a unique password
• Reach previous scanners using the retargeting tool (Google Tag Manager & Facebook Pixel ID)
• Set a QR code expiry based on data, number of scans, and IP address
• Accurately track scanner location by enabling GPS tracking (with the scanner’s permission)
• Limit QR code access within a specific area (Geofencing)
• Receive scan reports via email
• Generate UTM code for precise campaign tracking (for dynamic URL QR code)
• Duplicate their dynamic QR with the clone QR code feature
• Edit the existing QR code design on the dashboard
• Generate and share a short URL with the QR code

Static vs dynamic QR code: How are they different?

Now that you know what is a dynamic QR code, let’s dive deep into its differences with a static QR code.

Dynamic QR code

Dynamic QR codes redirect scanners to information other than links. The short URL feature, which holds the exact content of the QR code, makes this possible.

That is why the patterns of a dynamic QR appear less dense and are easier to differentiate from a static one.

Other than appearance and data capacity, what sets them apart from static QR codes is their editability and trackability. You can edit the stored information and track their performance anytime, which makes them ideal tools for businesses.

Moreover, the owner can access a dashboard to track the overall performance of their QR code campaigns.

You can see the report of your QR code’s total number of scans, the locations of the scanners, the time when it was scanned, and the devices used in scanning.

All these extensive reports enable you to fine-tune your future strategies and maximize your QR code campaign.

To date, dynamic QR codes are commonly used in marketing, product inventory, and management. With the onset of the pandemic, they became widely employed in healthcare and pharmaceuticals as well.

Health offices integrate QR codes for contact tracing and medicine inventory, among other health-related operations.

Dynamic QR code’s advanced technology allows it to be usable in various industries.

Static QR code

The static type of QR code is the permanent type of QR code.

This means that they’re non-editable and non-trackable. So, whatever content you store in a static QR code will remain permanently as it is.

Suppose you embed a website URL on a static QR code. Once it has been generated, whatever changes you make on the website will not reflect on the page that people can access when they scan it.

You can’t also track the data scans, which is why they’re ideal for personal or one-time use.

The good thing is that they’re totally free to create! Users won’t need an active subscription plan to generate a static QR code. You can also enjoy unlimited scans when you use QR TIGER to create your static QR codes.

Plus, they don't expire.

But if you want to maximize your campaigns, dynamic QRs are your best bet.

Now that you know the difference between a static and dynamic QR code, let’s further examine each of the features that set them apart below.

How do dynamic QR codes work, and why businesses are using them?

Most users prefer to generate dynamic QR codes since these QR codes are one of the most effective marketing techniques due to their advantage of making every campaign marketing a huge success.

So, how do these dynamic QRs work, and what features do they have?

Ability to edit landing pages

One advantage of using dynamic QRs as your new marketing strategy is the ability to edit the stored information anytime. So users can update and offer fresh content.

There are already a lot of brands and companies using QR codes to their advantage. If you are into business and marketing, not using a dynamic QR generator is like losing half of your customers in the market.

This advanced technology can help you digitally upgrade your online or offline marketing campaigns, which can ultimately boost your sales.

With dynamic QRs, you can redirect scanners to different content throughout your marketing period. Since they’re editable, you can repurpose your QR code.

You can use one QR code for different purposes and content. However, you cannot convert it to another QR code solution.

For example, you can lead your audience to video information about your goods or services today. And within the next few weeks, you can update your QR code and lead them to new video content with reviews about your product or services from people.

You can also create a QR code greeting card for seasonal promos.

You won’t need another set of QR codes for your campaigns because you can reuse the same QR code, edit the embedded content, and deploy it to the market.

Track scan analytics

With dynamic QRs, you can get an overall view of your QR code marketing campaign and see the ROI results.

With QR TIGER, you can easily monitor each of your QR code campaigns in a centralized management system—Dashboard.

Using its advanced tracking feature, you can see the following:

• Number of total and unique scans over time (You can filter by timezone and period)
• Scans by device type (AndroidOS, PC browser, iOS)
• Top device that has scanned your QR code
• Accurate scan location with timestamp
• Top 5 locations indicating where your QR code gained the most scans
• GPS heat map
• Map chart

Integration with Google Analytics

Retarget scanners with Google Tag Manager and Facebook Pixel

This feature lets you retarget the people who have scanned your QR code. With your QR code, you can easily reach out again to the previous visitor of your website or landing page.

Get notified with your QR code scans via email

This allows you to receive QR code performance reports via email. With this feature, you can get notifications when people scan your QR code based on your preferred frequency—daily, weekly, or monthly.

You can set the frequency of how often you will receive the scan report.

The information includes the campaign code, the number of scans, and the date the QR code was scanned.

Set a password for your QR code

The password protection feature is suitable for confidential files or exclusive content. It ensures that only authorized people can access the data stored in your QR code.

Implementing Zero Trust VPN measures can further enhance this protection by continuously verifying the identity and trustworthiness of users and devices.

Set a QR code expiry

You can automatically turn off your active QR code campaign using QR TIGER’s dynamic QR code expiry feature.

This feature is best for marketing campaigns with specific time periods, like limited-time deals for your product or items.

With this feature, you can set an expiry based on:

• Date. Your QR code expires based on a set specific date.
• Number of scans. Your QR code expires after X amount of scans.
• IP address. Allow a unique or same IP to scan your QR code one time or multiple times.

Accurately locate scanners with GPS tracking

When you make dynamic QR code, you can enable the GPS tracking feature. This lets you track the scanner’s geolocation with precision only if they grant permission for the system to access their GPS information.

Once granted, you can see the exact scanner location on your Dashboard. Now, if you look at the GPS heat map, you will see the time devices spent in different regions.

Red and orange mean they spent more time, while colors blue and purple mean they spent less time.

Enable boundary scanning with QR code geofencing

Once enabled, only scanners within the range can access your QR codes. You can do this by setting a specific area’s longitude and latitude points and radius.

If a scanner scans the QR code outside the range, they will be directed to go near it.

Track campaigns with precision using the UTM generator

With QR TIGER’s built-in UTM builder, dynamic URL QR code users can easily generate UTM codes for their links.

Easily generate UTM tracking links on your Dashboard and add UTM parameters. With QR TIGER, you no longer need a third-party UTM platform, allowing a seamless and more effective workflow.

This makes offline campaign tracking really easy. Whether you run an online or offline campaign, you can precisely track it on Google Analytics (GA4) or other analytics tools.

Edit QR code design

QR TIGER added a new feature that lets dynamic QR code users to edit their existing QR code design.

On your account dashboard, select a dynamic QR you want to edit then click Settings.

To edit the QR code template design, click Edit QR code design. Then, modify the existing QR design. Once done, always click the Save button.

This newly added feature can help you modify the design according to your campaign needs and aesthetics.

Easily integrate into other software

QR TIGER makes it super easy to integrate your account and works on platforms like Zapier, HubSpot, Canva, Google Analytics (GA4), Google Tag Manager, and Monday.com.

With your account’s API key, you can easily connect QR TIGER to major software for a seamless and smooth workflow.

Can I create dynamic QR codes with logos?

Yes, you can definitely create dynamic QR codes with logos. You can also fully customize them by changing the eyes, patterns, colors, and frame to make them creative.

The only way to do this is to use a QR code builder with an impressive QR code customization tool like QR TIGER.

How to create your own dynamic QR code in five easy steps

1. Go to QR TIGER QR code generator online. Select a dynamic QR code solution from the menu
2. Add the data you want to store in your QR code
3. Choose Dynamic QR for an editable and trackable QR code campaign and click the Generate QR code button.
4. Make your dynamic QR unique. Change the eyes, colors, and patterns, and add a logo and a frame with a call to action.
5. Test your dynamic QR code by scanning it with different devices. Click Download to save your custom dynamic QR code.

Pro tip: Always run thorough QR code testing before deploying your QR code. This way, you can detect early on why your QR code is not working or does not redirect to the right content.

To create a dynamic QR code for free, you can sign up for QR TIGER’s freemium plan.

Once you create a dynamic QR code, it is automatically stored in your account Dashboard. To track, simply click My Account > Dashboard > Select the dynamic QR code you want to track > Click Stats.

How to scan QR codes on Android and iOS

You can scan QR codes with Android or iOS, whether they’re dynamic or static QR codes. Here’s how you can decode any QR code using your device:

• Open the camera app and point it to the QR code.
• Let it scan the QR code.
  
• Tap the notification banner to view the information.

If it doesn’t work, check your camera settings. Make sure the QR code feature is enabled.

You can also use a third-party QR scanner like QR TIGER—a free QR code scanner and generator. Download it for free on Google Play Store or App Store.

Four tips to make your dynamic QR code marketing a success

After learning how to create your own dynamic codes, here are some easy yet effective QR code tips you must follow to guarantee success on your QR code campaign:

 1. Make your QR code unique

Customizing your QR code is one effective way to attract scanners and gain more scans.

What makes QR TIGER ideal as a dynamic QR code maker is its impressive and easy-to-use customization tool.

Here, you can:

• Change the design of your QR code’s pattern and eyes
• Select a combination of QR code colors
• Make the colors gradient and the background transparent
• Add your own logo
• Choose a frame and add a call-to-action

You can also save your design as a template, so it’s easier to create a custom QR code with the same design.

2. Put a clear direction

A clear call to action guarantees 80% more scans of your QR code. This directs users on what to do with your QR code, which is helpful for everyone who scans it.

To make your customers take action and scan your QR code, always remember to add an appropriate call to action to your custom QR code.

3. Choose the appropriate QR code size

The size of your QR code is a crucial decision to remember. Consider what medium you’re using and adjust the QR code size so people can easily see and scan it.

A QR code gives a digital dimension to your products, so make sure your target audience will see it right away.

The key here is: do not make them too small or too big. Depending on your medium, your QR code must be recognizable and accessible so it’s easier for people to scan it at a certain distance.

 4. Place your QR code in the right position

Make your QR code shine by placing it in the right position on a certain medium.

Give your QR code a central place in your product packaging so your customers will notice it instantly.

It will improve your scanning rates twice as fast.

Also, don’t print your QR codes on uneven surfaces that will distort and crumple the image of your code, making it unscannable.

For example, you can put a table tent menu QR code on top of your restaurant’s dining table so that customers can easily scan QR codes with Android or iPhone, place an order, and pay through the digital menu.

Why generating QR codes is better with QR TIGER QR Code Generator?

Advanced dynamic QR code features

QR TIGER is an all-in-one software that offers 20 QR code solutions with advanced features. You can easily choose one for different purposes or marketing campaigns.

A dynamic QR code comes with these built-in features:

• QR code password
• QR code expiry
• GPS tracking & geofencing
• Retargeting tool
• Scan reports via email
• UTM builder (for dynamic URL QR code)

Centralized QR code management

When you create a custom QR code, they’re stored in one place—your Dashboard.

Once you have an account, you can easily save and access all your created QR codes on your Dashboard. Here, you can update, track, and organize your QR codes.

Secure QR code maker

QR TIGER is an ISO 27001 certified QR code software and GDPR and CCPA compliant. It prioritizes user data security and privacy by using the most advanced safety tools.

Is there a completely free code generator?

Yes. QR TIGER offers a freemium plan that lets users enjoy creating customized dynamic and static QR codes—100% free, no credit card required.

If you want to create a free dynamic QR code, you can avail of the freemium plan.

But take note that the freemium plan offers:

• 3 dynamic QR codes
• 500 scan limit for dynamic QR
• Unlimited scans of static QR codes
• QR TIGER logo popup in free trial

Here’s the catch: your freemium account will not expire, and you can upgrade it whenever you want.

How much does a code generator really cost?

The usual question is: How much do dynamic QR codes cost?

Depending on the QR code software, their price can really vary.

With QR TIGER, you can avail of their Regular plan for as low as $7. If you’re looking for the best plan, here are QR TIGER’s subscription plans you can avail:

Dynamic QR codes: The modern asset your business needs

QR codes have become an essential tool for businesses that can bring a digital upgrade to your campaigns. They allow any business of any industry to make their campaigns and operations run smoothly.

QR codes are wise assets that give people a unique and more convenient experience, adding value to your business.

When it comes to the best QR code software, look no further than QR TIGER.

QR TIGER is a secure QR code software online trusted by big industry players like Disney, Universal, TikTok, Lululemon, Hilton, Cartier, McDonald’s, and more.

Aside from its capability of producing high-quality customized QR codes with logos in seconds, it has very responsive customer support that is quick to answer QR code and software-related queries.

With its wide range of advanced features and enterprise-level performance, QR TIGER is the best generator for any business that offers the most budget-friendly subscription plans.

Experience seamless custom QR code creation with QR TIGER by signing up for their plans now.

Frequently asked questions

Can I create a dynamic QR code for free?

Yes, you can create a free dynamic QR code with QR TIGER. Their freemium plan allows users to generate 3 dynamic codes with no cost at all!

Does dynamic QR code change?

Yes. With QR TIGER, you can easily change the stored information or data in your dynamic QR code. Simply go to My Account > Dashboard > Choose a QR code to edit > Edit > Save.

Can I edit my QR code design?

Yes, you can now edit your QR code design or QR code template in QR TIGER. Go to your dashboard and select a dynamic QR, click Settings > Edit QR code design > Save.

How does the subscription plan work?

If you pay for one year, you receive a specific number of QR codes that remain valid for that entire year. Instead of receiving a new set of QR codes each year, you pay for the duration during which your QR codes remain active.

What is the difference between a PNG and an SVG file?

The difference between SVG and PNG formats lies in the image quality.

An SVG file is ideal for high-quality printing.

It is a vector file that you can use in programs such as Illustrator or InDesign. When using Photoshop, you will need to import your SVG file.

Meanwhile, PNG is a format suitable for digital use, but it can also be printed, though it may have lower quality compared to an SVG.

How many times can my dynamic QR code be scanned?

You can scan your dynamic QRs as many times as you like until your paid subscription expires.

However, it may also depend on your subscription plan. QR TIGER’s freemium plan allows 500 dynamic QR code scans. For unlimited QR code scans and downloads, it’s ideal to opt for their Regular or Advanced plan.

My QR code is not working; what can I do?

There are many reasons why a QR code may not be functioning correctly. First, double-check the data you’ve entered.

Sometimes, minor typos in your URL can cause your QR code to malfunction.

It’s also important to note that when creating your QR code, the foreground color should always be darker than the background.

Can I save QR codes as a template, and can I delete a template?

Yes, you can make a template. This saves you time next time you generate your QR code.

You can also delete your templates. Simply hover over the template, and a cross will appear to delete the template.

What is the best format for the logo of the QR code?

You can add a logo to your QR code; however, you must upload a square logo in JPEG or PNG format. Otherwise, it might be stretched.

It is also recommended that your logo file size is around 500KB to 1 MB.

What is a good QR code scanner?

All iPhones with iOS 11 can scan QR codes using the camera app. The same is true for all new Androids.

For those camera apps with no QR code scanning feature yet, you can download QR TIGER’s free QR code scanner and generator from the Google Play Store and App Store.