Static vs Dynamic QR codes — why the difference matters
Before generating a QR code, it's worth understanding the two fundamental architectures:Static QR codes encode your target data (URL, text, credentials) directly into the black-and-white module grid. There is no intermediate server. When someone scans the code, their phone reads the data from the pixels and opens the URL directly. The code works forever.
Dynamic QR codes encode a short redirect URL pointing to the QR provider's servers. When scanned, the provider's server redirects the user to the actual destination. This lets you change the destination after printing — but if the provider goes offline, raises prices, or shuts down, every code you've ever printed stops working instantly.
This tool generates static codes only, using the qrcode.js library (davidshimjs fork) in your browser. Your data never touches a redirect server.
What you can encode in a QR code
Website URL:`
https://example.com/your-page
`
Wi-Fi network (iOS 11+ and Android 10+ auto-connect on scan):
`
WIFI:S:MyNetworkName;T:WPA;P:MyPassword;;
`
Plain text message (appears directly on screen when scanned):
`
Table 12 — scan to view our digital menu
`
vCard contact (saves to phone address book):
`
BEGIN:VCARD
VERSION:3.0
FN:Jeeva
ORG:PDFBucket
EMAIL:support@pdfbucket.online
END:VCARD
`
Printing guidelines for reliable scans
- Minimum size: 2 cm × 2 cm for smartphone scanning at arm's length. Use 10 cm × 10 cm for outdoor signage.
- High contrast: Black modules on white background scans most reliably. Avoid light colours or low-contrast combinations.
- Quiet zone: Keep 4 module-widths of clear space around all four edges. Scanners need this border to locate the code.
- Test before printing: Scan your generated code with multiple apps (built-in camera, Google Lens, and a third-party scanner) before ordering physical prints.