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.

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Getting Started

Downloading in PNG, SVG, and PDF

PNG, SVG or PDF? Which QR code file to download for websites, office printers and professional print, and which formats each ScanOrbit plan includes.

ScanOrbit exports QR codes in three file formats. Choosing the right one depends entirely on where the code will live.

PNG: the everyday, screen-first format

PNG is a raster format (a fixed grid of pixels) available for download on every plan, free included. It is ideal for anything that lives on a screen: a website, a slide deck, an email, or a social post. If you print from a PNG, keep the export size close to the final print dimensions.

If you try to download SVG or PDF on the Free plan, you will see a prompt noting that vector formats require Pro. PNG remains available as a free standard fallback.

SVG: the one to send to a printer

SVG is a vector format: instead of storing pixels, it stores mathematical shapes of each module, allowing it to scale infinitely to any size (from a business card to a highway billboard) with zero pixelation. Always send SVG to a professional printer or graphic designer. SVG download is available on Pro and Business.

PDF: for documents and standalone sharing

PDF is the right pick when the QR code needs to live inside a print-ready document or when you want to hand someone a single, self-contained vector file. PDF is also a Pro and Business feature.

How to download a code

1Open the QR code from your dashboard.
2Click the Download button. On the Free plan, this exports PNG directly; on Pro and Business, it opens a menu with PNG, SVG, and PDF options.
3Select your preferred format to trigger the instant download.

Working with an outside print agency? Always provide the vector SVG. Vector files give print shops full control over sizing and color separations.

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

What's the minimum printable size?How big to print a QR code: minimum sizes for business cards, menus, posters and banners, and the 10:1 rule for scan distance versus code width.Choosing the right error correction levelQR error correction levels L, M, Q and H (7% to 30%) explained: which to use with a logo, for small print like business cards, or on surfaces that get scuffed.

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