QR code tracking: scans by day, city and device
A QR code can't report scans by itself. Tracking works by sending each scan through a short link that counts it first. Here's what that means, what we count, and how to get a trackable code for free.
Free account: 3 dynamic codes with scan stats, no card. The generator below makes static codes, which can't be tracked.
01What should it open?
02Pick a style
03Brand it
04Preview and download
Static code: free forever, no watermark.
How to make it
- Create a free account and click New dynamic QR code. Paste the link it should open and give it a name, like "Window poster".
- Download the code (PNG or SVG, with your colors and logo) and print it. It contains your QR Code Desk short link, which forwards to your page.
- Open the code in your account to see scans by day, country, city and device. Make a separate code for each place you print it, and you know which one works.
Why a static code can't be tracked
A static code stores your link directly in the pattern. The phone reads it and opens the page; nothing in between can count that. The only way to track scans is a dynamic code: it stores a short link on our domain, the scan passes through it, we count it and send the phone on to your page in a fraction of a second. That's the same mechanism that lets you change the destination after printing.
What we count
Each scan records the time, the country and city (worked out from the network address, which we don't keep), the device type and the referrer. Your dashboard shows total scans, scans by day, and the top cities and devices for each code. Scanning doesn't ask the person for anything and doesn't identify them.
What tracking can't tell you
Scans aren't people: one person can scan twice, and a phone that reads the code without opening the link isn't counted. Treat the numbers as a comparison between places and weeks rather than an exact head count. For a campaign, make one code per flyer location and compare them.
Tracking that doesn't expire
Trackable codes depend on the short link staying up. With QR Code Desk, dynamic codes keep redirecting to their last destination even if you cancel your plan, and your stats stay visible.
When to use a dynamic code
Use a dynamic code instead of a static one if the link might change. You print the code once, and change where it goes from your account at any time. You also see how many people scanned it, from which city and on which phone.
3 dynamic codes free. No card needed. Sign in with Google or a link by email.
Frequently asked questions
Can I track a QR code I already printed?
Only if it was a dynamic code. If it contains your link directly, there's nothing to count. Print a dynamic code next time, or add a UTM parameter to the link so your website analytics can see QR visits.
Is QR code tracking free?
Yes. A free account includes 3 dynamic codes with full scan stats, no card needed. Paid plans add more codes.
Does tracking slow down the scan?
The redirect takes a fraction of a second, and the person scanning sees only your page.
Do you collect personal data from people who scan?
No. We record the time, approximate location, device type and referrer of each scan. The network address is used to work out the city and isn't stored.