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Understanding the Different Types of QR Codes

Written By Jenny Doe
Reviewed By Jenny Doe

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27 Sep 2024

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Understanding the Different Types of QR Codes

QR codes (short for quick response codes) are the fastest way to send your customers to a desired digital location. Universally, they have a similar design scheme: black and white dotted patterns in a square graphic. This design embeds information or a link to a specific page where you want to take your customers and clients.

Interestingly, QR code types vary according to purposes. So, you must be aware of which types of QR codes are right for you in which situations.

Table Of Content

  1. Types of QR Codes – Discussed in Detail
    1. Static QR Code
      1. Website QR Code
      2. vCard QR Code
      3. Text QR Code
      4. SMS QR Code
    2. Dynamic QR Code
      1. QR Code for Restaurant Menu
      2. QR Code for Brand Awareness
      3. QR Code for Inventory Management
      4. QR Code for Interactive Learning
  2. Types of QR Codes Based on Device Access Format
    1. QR Code Models 1 and 2
    2. Micro QR Code
    3. iQR Code
    4. SQRC Code
    5. FrameQR Code
    6. HCC2D Code

Types of QR Codes – Discussed in Detail

The different types of QR codes based on purposes roughly fall under two categories: static and dynamic QR codes.

Static QR Code

This is a non-modifiable code generated only once. It can have embedded information in limited characters or a URL link redirected to a page. You can use a custom QR code generator to get a static code.

As per your business goal, you can generate any of the types of following static QR codes:
Email QR Code

You need to type an email and set the recipient’s email address. When the recipient scans this code, they can read the associated email.

Website QR Code

Among important types of codes comes this code in which you can provide the link to your website. You can print this QR code on billboards, brochures, etc.

vCard QR Code

To generate this QR code, all you need to do is access a custom QR code generator and fill in your contact information. Once generated, it will provide your customers and clients with your contact details when they scan this code.

Text QR Code

Being a highly simple static QR code, this code can be used to display coupon codes, serial numbers, and text messages for different purposes.

SMS QR Code

It is one of the most useful types of QR codes. It contains an SMS that a customer, client, or user can read by scanning the code. You can generate this code by including a contact number and text message.

Dynamic QR Code

Unlike static QR codes, dynamic ones can be modified even after generating. They are used for different purposes than Static ones. You can generate a dynamic QR code using a free QR code generator as well.

QR Code for Restaurant Menu

If you want to go contactless and follow a sustainable, eco-friendly practice, you can use a dynamic QR code for your restaurant menu. Whenever a customer scans the menu QR code you provide, they can get access to your modifiable menu.

QR Code for Brand Awareness

In modern times, businesses are using dynamic QR codes to spread brand awareness. For instance, a guitar brand prints a QR code on its packaging asking customers to share their composed songs on the company’s social media page for an online songwriting competition.
This is how the company uses a dynamic QR code for its brand awareness and to increase engagement on its social profile.

QR Code for Inventory Management

Amongst different types of QR codes, dynamic codes for inventory management are used within the company processes. By scanning this QR code, the staff can track and maintain the accuracy of existing stock and real-time assets.

QR Code for Interactive Learning

Universities and academic institutions can use dynamic types of QR codes to share rotatable notes, books, and video learning material with their students.

Types of QR Codes Based on Device Access Format

Based on the format that users can access via a device, there are six types of QR codes:

QR Code Models 1 and 2

In Model 1 types of QR codes are old types as they have only the capacity of 1,167 numerals to be embedded and the maximum size of the modules is 73x73 which is not sufficient to store effective information.

On the other hand, there are Model 2 QR codes. These modern codes have a 7,089 numeral capacity and a 177x177 size module.

Micro QR Code

This 2D QR code type has a one-position detection pattern on the three corners of the design. The four types of micro QR codes are M1,  M2, M3, and M4 which are divided based on their capacity to encode data.

iQR Code

It is one of the most advanced types of QR codes. It is a 2D matrix code that has the capacity of storing 40,000 numerals on a 422x422 module size. It can be scanned even after damage and it has the ability for up to 50% error correction.

SQRC Code

It consists of both public and private sections. This QR code is generated to provide two types of details with different levels of control.

FrameQR Code

These types of QR codes have a canvas in the center of the design where letters and graphics can flexibly be arranged.

HCC2D Code

Also known as High Capacity Colored 2-dimensional barcode, this 2D QR code has colorful square grids to increase the space for data. This type of QR code is still under prototyping.

So, based on purposes and formats, QR codes can be many. However, if you know which one is the best for your business goals, you can make the most of QR code technology.


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As a seasoned content writer with over 10+ years of professional experience, Heena has honed the art of crafting compelling, SEO-friendly, and engaging content. With a passion for storytelling, she seamlessly weaves words to create impactful narratives that resonate with audiences across various industries. Throughout her career, Heena has collaborated with diverse clients, ranging from startups to established corporations, and has delivered an extensive array of content, including articles, blog posts, website copy, social media content, and marketing materials. She has touched almost all domains while writing content, however, eCommerce and Technology are her most favoured.


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