What's the difference between a static and dynamic QR code?

A static QR code permanently encodes data directly: once printed, you can never change it. A dynamic QR code uses a short redirect URL, so you can update the destination, track scans, and change content anytime without reprinting. We recommend dynamic for any printed materials.

Do I need to download an app to scan QR codes?

No. iPhones running iOS 11 or later and Android phones running Android 8 or later can scan QR codes natively in the camera app. Just point the camera at the code, no app download required.

How small can I print a QR code and still have it scan reliably?

As a rule of thumb, the minimum printable size is 1 cm × 1 cm (about 0.4 inches) for close-range scanning on modern phones. For anything that needs to be scanned from more than 30 cm away, use 2 cm or larger. Always test before going to print.

Can I change the URL a QR code points to after printing?

Yes, if it is a dynamic QR code. Log into your ScanOrbit account, open the QR code, and update the destination URL. The change takes effect immediately. Static QR codes cannot be changed.

Why does my QR code look different on iPhone vs Android?

The QR code itself is identical on all devices: only the visual rendering of the scanner interface differs. If a code scans on one device but not another, it's usually a printing issue (too small, low contrast) rather than a code issue.

How do I add a logo to my QR code without breaking scannability?

ScanOrbit automatically increases error correction to 'H' level when you add a logo, which allows up to 30% of the code to be obscured. Keep your logo below 30% of the total code area, and always test scan after adding it. We also recommend high contrast between your logo background and the QR code.

Can I track which specific print material a scan came from?

Yes: create a separate dynamic QR code for each print material (flyer, poster, packaging, etc.) and group them in a folder. Each code tracks its own scans independently, so you can compare performance by material.

Is there a limit to how many scans a QR code can receive?

Dynamic QR codes on the Free plan are limited to 500 tracked scans per month. Pro and Business plan codes have unlimited scans. You can also set a manual scan limit as an access control feature on any plan.

What happens if I delete a QR code?

Deleting a dynamic QR code will break the redirect: anyone who scans it will get a 404 error. We recommend deactivating rather than deleting if you might want to restore it later. Static QR codes are not affected as the data is embedded permanently.

Can I use ScanOrbit for free forever?

Yes. The free plan includes 3 dynamic QR codes, unlimited static QR codes, 500 scan tracking per month, and 30-day analytics history, with no expiry date. No credit card required.

Help CenterAnalytics

Analytics

Device and geographic breakdowns

See which phones, operating systems, browsers, countries and cities scan your QR codes, and how ScanOrbit works them out at the moment of each scan.

ScanOrbit resolves device types, operating systems, browsers, and geographic locations automatically at redirect time.

Device and platform resolution

Incoming HTTP requests are parsed into iOS, Android, Desktop, and Other buckets. Operating systems and browser families (Chrome, Safari, Firefox, Edge) are detailed in the Analytics dashboard.

Geographic telemetry

Scans are mapped to country and city levels using privacy-focused IP geolocation. IP addresses are hashed immediately and never stored in plain text.

Scanners utilizing VPNs or privacy proxies will reflect the exit node's server location rather than the physical scanner location.

Still stuck? Email our team at hello@scanorbit.app or check the related articles below: most questions are answered there already.

Understanding your scan analyticsRead your QR code analytics: total and unique scans, scans over time, devices, cities and countries, per code or across your whole ScanOrbit account.

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Help Center & Implementation Documentation

Browse Help Center →

Fundamentals

What is a QR Code?

Matrix symbology, Reed-Solomon error correction, and optical scanner mechanics.

Design Studio

How to Customize Your QR Code

Palette selection, custom logo insertion, frame badges, and vector export formats.

Print Quality

Choosing Error Correction Levels

Level L (7%) to Level H (30%): picking the right density for print durability.

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Experience full vector styling, editable destination routing, and real-time scan analytics: 3 dynamic codes free forever.

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Scan to Test Studio

Scan with your phone camera to test instant redirection.

Device and geographic breakdowns

Device and platform resolution

Geographic telemetry

Related articles

Related Guides & Knowledge Base

8 QR Code Design Mistakes That Hurt Scan Rates

What Your QR Code Analytics Are Actually Telling You

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Help Center & Implementation Documentation

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