How to Create a Dynamic QR Code (Free, Step by Step)
Create an editable, trackable dynamic QR code in about a minute: pick a type, add content, brand it, download SVG or PNG, and change the destination any time without reprinting.
A dynamic QR code is one you can edit after it is printed and track every time it is scanned. Creating one takes about a minute and costs nothing. This is the complete walkthrough: what you need, each step in QR Walrus, how to brand and download it, and how to change it later.
What you need
- A free QR Walrus account (email or Google sign-in; no card).
- The content: a link, a file, contact details, a Wi‑Fi network, a WhatsApp number, and so on.
- Optionally, a logo file (PNG or SVG) to put in the middle.
Step 1: sign up and open Create QR
Sign up and you land in the dashboard. Every new account starts with a 7‑day Pro trial, so all QR types are available while you set things up. After the trial you keep the Free plan: 3 dynamic codes with 2,000 scans each, unlimited static codes, and your codes keep working.
Step 2: pick the QR type
| Type | What the scanner sees | Typical use |
|---|---|---|
| URL / Link | Redirects straight to the page | Website, menu, booking page, form |
| Smart redirect | App Store on iPhone, Play Store on Android, fallback elsewhere | App downloads |
| vCard | Contact card with Save, Call and WhatsApp buttons | Business cards, lost & found |
| Opens a chat with your number | Enquiries, support, orders | |
| Wi‑Fi | Network name and password to join | Cafés, offices, rentals |
| PDF, Images, Video | The file, a gallery of up to 12 photos, or a player | Menus, brochures, manuals, portfolios |
| Social links, Project page | A page with all your links or project details | Creators, students, agencies |
| Email, SMS, Phone, Location, Event, Text | Pre-filled message, call, map pin, calendar entry, or note | Support lines, directions, invitations |
Step 3: enter the content
Paste the link or fill in the fields. For files, upload the PDF, images or video (or paste a YouTube/Vimeo link). Give the code a name you will recognise later, like "Spring flyer – downtown"; names are private and show only in your dashboard.
Step 4: design it
- Upload your logo; it goes in the centre with automatic padding.
- Choose colours. Keep the modules dark and the background light.
- Pick a module style (square, rounded, dots) and corner style.
- Add a frame with a call to action if the code will be printed.
Design options are included on the Free plan. More on what works in designing a custom QR code.
Step 5: save and test
Click create. Point your phone's camera at the preview; the dashboard shows a live "scanned" confirmation the moment the redirect lands, so you know the whole chain works before you download anything.
Step 6: download
SVG for print (sharp at any size) or PNG for screens, email and slides. High-resolution download is included on every plan.
Changing the QR code later
Open the code in My QRs, click Edit, change the link, file or details, and save. The change is live immediately for every printed copy. You can also pause a code; scanners then see a short "this code is inactive" page instead of an error.
What a dynamic QR code costs
Free forever for 3 codes. Starter is $5/month (or $48/year) for 20 codes with unlimited scans, file and vCard types, and a year of analytics. Pro ($12/month) raises that to 200 codes. Details on the pricing page.
Create your dynamic QR code; it will still be editable in five years.
Frequently asked questions
Is a dynamic QR code free?
Yes. The QR Walrus Free plan includes 3 dynamic QR codes with 2,000 scans each, unlimited static codes, logo and colour design, and high-resolution download. No card is needed.
Can I change a dynamic QR code after printing?
Yes. Open the code in My QRs, edit the link, file or details, and save. Every printed copy immediately points to the new content because the pattern only contains a short redirect link.
Do I need an app to scan a dynamic QR code?
No. The built-in camera on iPhone and Android reads it and opens the destination in the browser.