QRmaker vs The QR Code Generator
One of the oldest names in free QR codes - now owned by Uniqode. Here's how it compares.
The QR Code Generator (the-qrcode-generator.com) earned its traffic the honest way: a genuinely simple free static generator that's been around for years. Today it's part of Uniqode (its enterprise parent), and its free plan includes a couple of dynamic codes - with ads shown to the person scanning - while scan tracking sits in the paid tiers. QRmaker matches the free simplicity (static codes: free forever, no watermark, no signup) and differs where it counts for business printing: scans never see an ad on any tier, and the paid part is one flat price.
QRmaker vs The QR Code Generator at a glance
| Feature | QRmaker | The QR Code Generator |
|---|---|---|
| Free static QR codes | Free forever, never expire | Free, established tool |
| Free dynamic codes | 1 permanent code, no ads | A couple, with ads on scan |
| Ads shown on scan | Never - straight to your page | On free dynamic codes |
| Scan analytics | Real-time scans: time, device, location | Paid plans |
| Pricing model | Flat $12/mo or $96/yr - self-serve | Tiered, from ~$5/mo billed yearly |
| QR design control | Colors, gradients, dot/eye styles, logo, frames | Basic customization |
| SVG export | Every code, free included | Plan-dependent |
Comparison reflects general product positioning and may change; check each provider's site for current details. QRmaker details match our pricing page.
When The QR Code Generator is the better pick
Anyone who just needs a quick free static code from a name they've used for years - or teams heading toward the broader Uniqode enterprise platform anyway.
When QRmaker is the better pick
Businesses that want QR-first depth - real design control, editable destinations, scan analytics - at one flat price, with no ads between the person scanning and your page.
Why teams pick QRmaker
Your customer never sees an ad
Free dynamic codes elsewhere are often ad-supported. Every QRmaker scan goes straight to your destination, on every tier.
Flat price for the paid part
One Pro rate for unlimited dynamic codes and analytics, published on the pricing page - no plan-tier decoding.
Modern design tools on the free tier
Gradients, dot styles, logos, and frames on free static codes - most legacy free generators stop at two colors.
Looking for a The QR Code Generator alternative?
QRmaker is a focused The QR Code Generator alternative for businesses that print: create a free code, upgrade to a dynamic one you can edit after printing, and watch every scan roll in. Choose The QR Code Generator for a quick, familiar free code or as an on-ramp to Uniqode's enterprise platform. Choose QRmaker for QR-first design, ad-free scanning, and flat-priced dynamic codes.
FAQ
Is The QR Code Generator free?
Its static codes are free and never expire, and the free plan includes a couple of dynamic codes that show ads to the person scanning. Scan tracking is part of the paid plans. QRmaker's static codes are also free forever - and its free dynamic code is ad-free.
Who owns The QR Code Generator?
Uniqode (formerly Beaconstac), the enterprise QR platform, is its parent company. It was associated with Bitly in the past, which still causes confusion in older articles.
Is QRmaker a good alternative to The QR Code Generator?
Yes - equivalent free static codes with more design control, ad-free scanning on every tier, and one flat rate when you need dynamic codes and analytics.
Can I change where the QR code points after printing?
Yes - with a QRmaker dynamic QR code. It encodes a short redirect link, so you can update the destination anytime from your dashboard and every printed copy instantly points to the new URL. Static codes encode the destination directly and can't be changed.
Do QRmaker QR codes expire?
No. Static QR codes are free forever and never expire - they encode your destination directly and don't depend on our servers. Dynamic codes keep working as long as your account is active, and you can pause or re-point them whenever you like.
Can I track how many people scan my code?
Yes. Dynamic QR codes come with real-time scan analytics: total scans plus device, location, and time-of-day breakdowns, so you can see exactly which placement is working. Scan tracking is part of the Pro plan.
Is there a watermark on the QR code?
No. Every QR code you create with QRmaker - free or paid - is watermark-free and downloadable as a crisp PNG or scalable SVG, ready for print at any size.
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