Short links are versatile because they are easy to insert into text content, emails, messenger messages and social media posts. They are convenient because they can be memorable, especially if branded, and avoid long, cumbersome URLs that spoil the look and feel of content.
In addition, short links are easy to distribute in digital format, they do not require additional tools for scanning and are suitable for most Internet resources.
QR codes, on the other hand, are particularly useful in offline environments. They provide instant access to a link by simply scanning the code with a smartphone camera, making it much easier to access information. This makes them convenient for placing them on printed media: business cards, tickets, packaging of goods, restaurant menus, billboards, posters and other advertising materials. In addition, QR codes help eliminate errors when entering a link manually, which is especially important when the URL is too complex or long.
Despite the obvious advantages, each method has its own disadvantages. Short links are convenient in the online space, but when used in printed materials, they have to be entered manually, which may not be user-friendly. QR codes, in turn, require a smartphone camera and a special application for scanning (although modern phones already support this function without additional programs). In digital materials, QR codes are less effective because it is easier for the user to click on a regular link than to scan a code from the screen. It is also worth to allocate that QR codes can be from a number of reasons badly scanned and users will not be able to pass the necessary information, it can be for example if the QR code is damaged.
The choice between short links and QR codes depends on the context. If information is distributed via the Internet, social networks, email newsletters or messengers, it is more convenient to use short links. In offline advertising and printed products, it is more effective to use QR codes, which allow you to instantly go to the desired page without having to enter the URL manually.
Ideally, it is worth combining both methods to ensure maximum convenience for the audience. For example, it is possible to place both a QR code and a short link at the advertising banners or posters at the same time so that users could choose the most convenient way to go. This approach will help to reach more people and increase the effectiveness of the marketing campaign. You can also use short links when creating QR code. The length of the QR code depends directly on the length of the original link, if the link is too long, it often happens when using UTM tags such a QR code can be badly scanned and this cause inconvenience. Therefore, combining QR code and short links you can avoid such situations in the future.