Building a QR Code Generator: Dynamic vs Static Architecture

Why I Built a Dynamic QR Code System
I recently needed QR codes for a client project and discovered a fundamental architecture decision: static vs dynamic.

Static QR Codes
The URL is encoded directly in the QR pattern.

javascript
// Static: URL baked into QR
const qr = generateQR("https://example.com/page");
// Can never change after printing!
Problem: Once printed, you can't change the destination.

Dynamic QR Codes
The QR contains a short redirect URL that you control.

javascript
// Dynamic: Redirect through your server
const qr = generateQR("https://qr.io/abc123");
// Server handles redirect + logging
app.get('/abc123', (req, res) => {
logScan(req); // Track analytics
res.redirect(destinationUrl); // Can update anytime!
});
Benefits:

✅ Change destination without reprinting
✅ Track scans (location, device, time)
✅ A/B test landing pages
✅ Smaller QR pattern (shorter URL)
Real-World Use Case
For restaurant menus, you need dynamic codes. Menu changes? Just update the redirect - no reprinting 1000 table tents.

I've been using QR Master for testing this pattern - it's free and has a clean dashboard for generating trackable codes.

Key Takeaway
If your QR code will be printed or permanent, always use dynamic. The 5 minutes extra setup saves hours of reprinting later.

What architecture patterns have you used for QR systems? Drop a comment! 👇