Both QR codes and Short URLs in ConnectQR help you share links more easily — but they serve different purposes, and it’s important to understand when to use each.
Short URLs: A clean, clickable link
A Short URL is a condensed version of a full web link. You can use it in emails, social media, printed materials, or anywhere a long link would look messy or take up too much space.
Key features:
- Dynamic: You can update the destination link after it’s created.
- Trackable: Built-in analytics let you track who clicked your link, when, and where.
- Clean: Short and simple — great for copy/paste or sharing verbally.
- Best for: Online campaigns, social bios, printed URLs, and SMS links.
QR Codes: A scannable visual link
QR codes are visual representations of data that can be scanned by a phone camera. While some QR codes point to a URL (just like a Short URL), ConnectQR also supports many other QR code types.
Types of QR codes you can create:
- Website links (just like Short URLs)
- Business cards (vCard)
- Forms
- Files
- Phone numbers, email, SMS
- Custom Connect Pages and more
Key benefits:
- Flexible content: Not limited to just URLs
- Trackable: Dynamic QR codes include full scan analytics
- Editable: You can update the destination later (for dynamic QR codes)
- Best for: Print materials, signage, packaging, events, and menus
Comparison Table: QR Codes vs. Short URLs
| Feature | QR Code | Short URL |
|---|---|---|
| How people access it | By scanning with a phone camera | By clicking or copying a link |
| Supported content types | URLs, business cards, forms, files, phone, pages, more | URLs only |
| Can update the destination? | ✅ Yes (for dynamic QR) | ✅ Yes |
| Analytics tracking | ✅ Yes (for dynamic QR) | ✅ Yes |
| Best suited for | Physical environments (print, signs, packaging) | Online sharing (email, social media, SMS) |
So, which one should I use?
It depends on how your audience will interact with it:
- Use a QR Code when people will scan something in person — like a poster, flyer, label, or sign.
- Use a Short URL when you’re sharing something online or want to include a neat, trackable link in your messaging.
And remember — you can always pair them together: generate a QR code that points to a Short URL!
Want to get started?
Here are two great guides to help you create your first item:
Need help deciding?
If you’re not sure which is the better fit for your use case, feel free to contact our support team — we’re happy to help.
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