How to Make a QR Code Free and Non-Expiring

QR codes seem to be only accessible to big businesses like banks and savvy social media professionals, but small businesses and individuals can also create and use them. Quick Response code technology helps simplify processes such as networking, order placement, distributing new product information, and even payment processing.  It’s not a new digital trend. Most […]

QR codes seem to be only accessible to big businesses like banks and savvy social media professionals, but small businesses and individuals can also create and use them.

Quick Response code technology helps simplify processes such as networking, order placement, distributing new product information, and even payment processing. 

It’s not a new digital trend. Most marketing experts encourage the use of QR codes to help bridge the gap between offline and online marketing efforts. 

Here’s a deeper look at what this technology can do and how to make a free QR code for long-term use. 

What is a QR code?

QR codes, or Quick Response codes, are two-dimensional barcodes that store data. They allow people to quickly scan and decode them using a smartphone or QR code scanner app.

These codes were first created in the 90s and were originally used to track car parts in Japan. Today, businesses use them to convert a website link to QR code and more.

QR codes are widely used in marketing campaigns, product packaging, and even event ticketing. 

Anyone looking to try this out needs to know how to make a QR code free of charge. 

But before that, let’s quickly examine why QR codes expire. This will help you better understand the QR code that’s suited to your needs. 

Why do some QR codes expire? 

Creating a QR code goes beyond finding a free QR code creator. A common assumption is once a code is generated, it will work forever. However, this is not always true. 

And, it all comes down to the type of QR code you create. 

There are two types of QR codes: static and dynamic. Static codes are permanent codes, while dynamic codes can be editable. 

When you create a static code, the information you add is linked to the QR code itself. Hence, no external system controls it, and it has no expiry. However, you cannot edit the content later; whatever information you store stays the same. 

Dynamic codes work differently. Instead of storing the actual information, you get a short link to QR code during creation. 

This URL allows you to update the code’s content whenever you want, even after printing it. The downside is most free dynamic codes are temporary.

When to use static and dynamic codes

Static codes are useful for converting a link to a QR code and sharing information, such as storing business information, social media handles, websites, and more. 

Dynamic codes are used in more strategic marketing activities, such as product promotions or brand marketing campaigns. 

With dynamic codes, you can track scans, collect user data, change the destination link, and even run multiple promotions. 

Going with a dynamic code seems like the obvious option, but most of them come at a cost. You have to explore alternatives when you are a small brand or working with a limited budget. 

How to make a QR code free: Step-by-step guide

Follow these steps, and you’ll have a free QR code ready for sharing in less than 5 minutes.

1. Select a good free QR code generator

A simple Google search will provide you with an exhaustive list of free QR code generators but how can you know which is suitable for your needs?

You can quickly assess their reviews on the Play Store or Apple Store and read user reviews. 

You can also go with globally tested and trusted brands like QR TIGER or Canva, which allows the creation of both static and dynamic codes for free.

2. Choose the type of code you want to create

Once you reach the website or download the app, you’ll see different options. You can choose any of the solutions to convert a link to QR code or store a file on it. 

3. Enter your information

Before you begin the creation process, gather the information you intend to place on the QR code. This can be plain text, a social media post, contact information, or a website link. Then, simply fill in these details to have it stored. 

4. Enter your code choice 

Select “static code” if that’s what you need or “dynamic code” if you’re using it for QR code marketing. 

5. Customize and create your QR code

Even if you use the free option, most QR code platforms offer tools to adjust your code’s design to match your brand’s aesthetics. 

You can add your logo, change the code’s shape and style, and adjust the colors for easy scanning. This will ensure your code looks professional and easy to recognize. 

6. Download and test your QR code

Once you are satisfied with the code’s appeal, hit the generate button and download it in any format, such as PNG, JPG, or SVG. 

Then, before sharing, scan it with your phone’s camera or scanning app to make sure it works properly. 

How to effectively distribute your code

Now that you know how to make a QR code for free, here are some ways you can use or distribute it.

• Print it on your business cards so people can save your contact details properly. 
• Add it to your marketing materials to instantly send customers to your website or promo page.
• Share it on your social media handles for easy access to your content.
• Add it to the packaging to provide means to contact you or product instructions. 
• Include it in your ads to help facilitate purchases. 

Make free QR codes for your basic business needs

Knowing how to make a QR code free is easy once you know what you want to create. 

With a static code, the content linked to the code is permanently accessible, and you never have to worry about cost.

If you need dynamic codes for marketing, the information you link to the QR code can be edited whenever the need arises. 

When you generate your code with a trusted QR code generator, you do not have to worry about entry costs.