Types of QR Codes: A Complete Guide to the Most Popular and Effective Solutions
QR codes have evolved into a universal tool used by companies, educational institutions, manufacturers, restaurants, brands, and individuals. They make information sharing faster, simplify customer interactions, reduce costs, and create new communication opportunities.
Although most people associate QR codes with opening a website, there are actually more than 20 functional types, each designed for a specific purpose. Below is a detailed overview of the most in-demand solutions.
What a QR Code Is and How It Works
A QR code (Quick Response Code) is a two-dimensional matrix barcode created in 1994 by the Japanese company Denso Wave for the automotive industry. Unlike traditional linear barcodes, QR codes can store significantly more data and can be scanned instantly — which also makes them a great option for an electronic business card.
Anyone can create a QR code today using an online generator. A QR code can hold links, files, contact cards, coordinates, Wi-Fi passwords, multimedia, and many other types of information.
Thanks to their versatility, QR codes are widely used in marketing, logistics, education, retail, time tracking, product identification, brand authentication, and more.
Main Types of QR Codes and Their Purposes
1. URL QR Code (Static or Dynamic)
Converts any link into a QR code leading to a website, landing page, article, catalog, or form. Dynamic versions allow editing the URL without reprinting the code and provide scan analytics.
2. vCard QR Code (Dynamic)
A modern alternative to a traditional business card. Scanning the code opens a contact card with name, phone number, email, social media, website, and address. Perfect for business cards, résumés, email signatures, and branding.
3. File QR Code (Dynamic)
Stores and shares documents such as PDFs, images, videos, presentations, spreadsheets, and more. The file can be replaced at any time without changing the QR code itself.
4–5. Bio-Link QR Code / Social Media QR Code (Dynamic)
Combines all social media profiles into one page. After scanning, users see links to Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and other platforms — ideal for influencers, companies, and brands.
6. Landing Page QR Code (Dynamic)
Creates a mini mobile landing page directly inside the generator interface. No domain or CMS required. Used for promotions, presentations, temporary campaigns, mini catalogs, and events.
7. Google Forms QR Code
Instantly opens a Google Form for registration, feedback, testing, surveys, or bookings. Useful for events, education, and customer service.
8. Wi-Fi QR Code (Static)
Connects users to Wi-Fi with one scan, without manually entering a password. Common in cafés, hotels, offices, salons, and public spaces.
9. App Store QR Code (Dynamic)
Automatically redirects the user to the App Store, Google Play, or AppGallery based on their device.
10. Multi-URL QR Code (Dynamic)
Redirects users to different URLs depending on device language, time of day, geolocation, or number of scans. Useful for localized campaigns, seasonal promotions, and regional landing pages.
11. MP3 QR Code (Dynamic)
Stores audio files (MP3 or WAV). Ideal for podcasts, audio lessons, soundtracks, and museum audio guides.
12–15. Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, Pinterest QR Codes
Lead directly to a specific profile, channel, page, or playlist — great for promoting social media presence.
16. Email QR Code (Dynamic)
Creates a ready-to-send email with pre-filled subject and message. Effective for customer support, feedback, and service requests.
17. Text QR Code (Static)
Displays plain text — instructions, messages, promo codes, notes. Works even without internet access.
18. SMS QR Code (Static)
Opens the messaging app with a pre-filled text and phone number.
19. Event QR Code (Static)
Stores event data such as title, address, date, and start/end times. Convenient for invitations, posters, conferences, and bookings.
20. Location QR Code (Static)
Contains coordinates for Google Maps and helps users navigate to a specific place. Used in tourism, logistics, delivery, and navigation.
21. QR Menu for Restaurants
Replaces printed menus and lets restaurants instantly update prices, dishes, and photos without reprinting. Speeds up service and reduces costs.
22. Payment QR Codes
Linked to banking services, PayPal, or payment links. Allow users to pay for goods and services in one scan, without entering details manually.
23. QR Codes for Education
Lead students to tests, study materials, video lessons, presentations, and interactive assignments. Often placed in textbooks, posters, presentations, and online courses.
24. QR Codes on Packaging and for Brands
Open instructions, certificates, video reviews, authenticity data, storage conditions, sustainability information, and more. Used by manufacturers of cosmetics, electronics, food, clothing, and household goods.