Before you print a QR code on 5,000 flyers, it's worth knowing there are two kinds — and only one lets you change the destination or see the scans later. Here's the difference in plain English.
Static QR codes
A static QR encodes the destination directly. It works forever and needs no service behind it — but it's fixed. You can't edit where it points after printing, and you can't track scans. Fine for a one-off link that will never change.
Dynamic QR codes
A dynamic QR points to a short link you control, which then redirects to the real destination. That small layer is powerful:
- Editable — change the destination anytime without reprinting.
- Trackable — see scans, devices, and locations.
- Reusable — repurpose the same printed code for a new campaign.
Quick comparison
- Need to edit later? Dynamic.
- Want scan analytics? Dynamic.
- Truly never changing, no tracking? Static is fine.
Do dynamic QR codes expire?
They keep working as long as the short link behind them is active. With lynkily, every QR is backed by a short link you own, so it stays live and editable. That's exactly what you want for menus, promotions, and packaging.
Ready to make an editable, trackable one? See how to track clicks for free, then create yours.