What is the difference between static and dynamic QR codes?

Static

The target is embedded in the pattern itself. Advantages: no dependency on a service, works permanently, no ongoing costs. Disadvantages: not editable, not analyzable, and the longer the embedded address, the finer and harder to scan the pattern becomes.

Suitable for: WLAN access data, business card data, payment data – everything that won't change anyway.

Dynamic

Only a short redirect address is in the code. Scanners land on a server that redirects to the current target.

Advantages: target can be changed at any time, scans can be analyzed, the pattern remains coarse and thus easily readable. Disadvantages: you depend on the operation of this redirect. If the service fails or is discontinued, all printed codes become useless.

The critical question before printing

Who operates the redirect, and what will happen to it in five years? With a print run of 50,000 stickers, this is not a minor issue. A dedicated domain for the redirect is the safer choice than a short URL from a third-party provider.

Changing later

A printed static code cannot be converted into a dynamic one. If you want to keep the option to make changes, you must decide before printing.