QRmkr 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. QRmkr 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.
QRmkr vs The QR Code Generator at a glance
| Feature | QRmkr | The QR Code Generator |
|---|---|---|
| Free static QR codes | Free forever, never expire | Free, established tool |
| Free dynamic codes | None - Pro from the start | 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 |
QRmkr details match our pricing page. Comparison reflects general product positioning and may change; check each provider's site for current details.
Make a QR code right here, free
No sign-up, no email, no watermark. Pick a type, paste your link, and download it as a PNG or SVG - the code never expires.
Design & brandingcolors · logo · frames
Center logos use 30% error correction so the code still scans.
Want to edit or track this?
This makes a static code (permanent). Create a free account for dynamic codes you can edit after printing, with scan analytics.
Make it dynamic →Free forever · No watermark · Never expires
Or make it art. Same code, still scans.
Animated
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 QRmkr 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 QRmkr
Your customer never sees an ad
Free dynamic codes elsewhere are often ad-supported - that is how they are paid for. QRmkr charges for dynamic codes instead, and every scan goes straight to your destination.
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?
QRmkr 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 QRmkr 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. QRmkr's static codes are also free forever, but its dynamic codes are Pro-only at $12/month - with no ads at any tier.
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 QRmkr 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 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 these 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 it?
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 - free or paid - is watermark-free and downloadable as a crisp PNG or scalable SVG, ready for print at any size.
Do I need an app to scan the code?
No. Every modern iPhone and Android camera scans QR codes natively - just point the camera at the code and tap the link that appears. No special app required.
What's the difference between a static and a dynamic QR code?
A static code encodes your destination directly into the pattern, so it works forever without any server but can never be changed. A dynamic code encodes a short redirect we host, so the printed pattern stays the same while you edit where it goes - and every scan gets logged.
How small can I print a QR code?
As a rule of thumb a code scans from about ten times its own width, so a 2 x 2 cm code reads comfortably at arm's length. Keep dark modules on a light background, leave a clear white margin around the code, and test-scan the final print before you order a run.
Can I put my logo in the middle of the code?
Yes, on Pro. QR codes carry enough error correction to survive a logo in the centre, and the design studio previews scannability as you go so you can see when a logo is getting too large.
What happens to my codes if I stop paying?
Your static codes are unaffected - they never depended on our servers in the first place. Dynamic codes rely on the redirect layer, so plan printed campaigns with that in mind.
Is it really free to start?
Yes. Unlimited static QR codes cost nothing, need no card, and carry no watermark, and they never expire. Editable destinations and scan analytics need a dynamic code, which is part of Pro at $12/month.
Before you print it
If the code you are about to print may ever need to point somewhere else, create it as a dynamic QR code you can edit after printing. The printed pattern never changes; only the destination behind it does. It also means you can track every scan by day, device, and location and see which placement actually worked.
Try QRmkr free - no card required
Create a code in seconds. Make it dynamic to edit anytime and track every scan.
Get started free