Digital codes have revolutionized the way we interact with technology and information. With the increased need for contactless transactions, these two-dimensional barcodes have become the go-to options for businesses and consumers to connect and exchange information.
Aztec codes and QR Codes are some of the most commonly used digital codes. While they may seem similar at first glance—both are square codes made up of black-and-white modules—they significantly differ in readability, storage capacity, and functionality.
Understanding these differences and their unique features is important to utilize them effectively. The following is a comprehensive breakdown of Aztec codes vs. QR Codes, including what they are and how they work, key differences, and why Bitly QR Codes are a great option for businesses of all sizes.
What is an Aztec code?
Aztec codes are 2D barcodes that Andrew Longacre Jr. and Robert Hussey invented in 1995. They are characterized by their central bullseye design surrounded by concentric squares. The code’s finder pattern resembles the aerial view of an Aztec pyramid (mysterious, flat-topped structures built by the Aztecs in central Mexico), hence the name.
These matrix barcodes can hold a large amount of data—up to 3,832 numeric digits or 3,067 alphabetic characters—since they don’t require a quiet zone around the edges. However, they’re less prevalent in consumer applications and are primarily used for industrial or commercial purposes, including:
- Airline boarding passes
- Train tickets
- Automobile registration
- Tax payment notifications
- Utility bills
You need a barcode scanner or smartphone camera to read Aztec codes.
What it does
An Aztec code primarily encodes data in small physical spaces such as on tickets or product packaging. Unfortunately, these codes’ complexity can sometimes be a barrier in consumer-focused applications, where simplicity and ease of use are critical.
Scanning Aztec barcodes requires specialized barcode readers that are unavailable on consumer mobile devices. However, the codes are versatile due to their ability to encode text and raw data.
How it works
Creating an Aztec code requires barcode generator software that can translate the data into binary bits and arrange them in a specific pattern. The process involves converting the binary data into a series of small dots, usually black and white, arranged in a square grid pattern.
Specialized barcode readers and some iOS and Android mobile phone apps can scan the printed code. Thanks to the codes’ error correction capabilities, even if a portion of the code is obscured or damaged, the specialized barcode readers and apps can still read and decode it correctly.
What is a QR Code?
Quick Response Codes (QR Codes) are a prevalent and universally recognized type of 2D barcode. Toyota subsidiary Denso Wave first introduced them in Japan in 1995 for inventory management, and they have since gained global recognition for their versatile functionality.
Their distinct square shape and pattern make them easily identifiable, contributing to their widespread adoption over Aztec Codes. QR Codes have become a global standard for quick, reliable data sharing in personal and professional contexts due to their various features. They can store up to 7,089 numeric or 4,296 alphanumeric characters in a single barcode and are scannable from any direction. You can find QR Codes in:
- Product packaging
- Business cards
- Social media profiles
- Event tickets and invitations
- Print advertisements like flyers, posters, and billboards.
QR Codes can contain more information than traditional 1D barcodes, including Japanese Kanji and Kana characters, numeric data, and alphanumeric text. Any smartphone with a camera and a QR Code reader app can read them, making it easy for consumers to access the information encoded.
What it does
The versatility and ease of use of QR Codes position them as a more practical choice over Aztec codes in most scenarios. Businesses can use QR Codes for various applications, from marketing and product information to personal data sharing. Businesses leverage QR Codes for customer engagement, advertising, and efficient inventory management.
How it works
Creating a QR Code involves encoding data into a pattern of black-and-white squares. When scanned by a smartphone or QR scanner, the device reads the pattern and translates it back into the stored data. QR Codes also have different error correction levels, ensuring the code is still readable even if it is partially damaged or obscured.
- Level L offers up to 7% error correction.
- Level M provides up to 15% correction.
- Level Q allows up to 25% correction.
- Level H enables up to 30% correction.
Error correction levels are helpful in scenarios where the Code may face potential damage, such as on product packaging or outdoor advertisements.
Key differences between Aztec codes and QR Codes
Aztec codes and QR Codes may appear similar at a quick glance, but they significantly differ in design and functionality. Each type of barcode serves a unique purpose, so let’s review the key differences between them to help you decide which one is right for you.
Design and appearance
A closer look at Aztec codes and QR Codes reveals that their design and appearance are quite distinct. Aztec codes consist of concentric squares, while QR Codes use a square grid pattern of black-and-white squares. This design difference also affects their size, with Aztec codes being more compact than QR Codes.
Data capacity and size
QR Codes have a higher data capacity than Aztec codes. They can store up to 7,089 numeric or 4,296 alphanumeric characters, while Aztec codes can hold up to 3,832 numerical or 3,067 alphanumeric characters. However, this higher data storage also means that QR Codes are physically larger than Aztec codes. This can be a disadvantage when space is limited, as fitting a QR Code on a smaller item or surface may be challenging.
Error corrections
QR Codes have higher error correction capabilities than Aztec codes, making them more resilient in real-life scenarios. They use a Reed-Solomon error correction algorithm, which can recover data even if up to 30% of the code is damaged or obscured.
Aztec codes use a simpler error correction method, which can only recover data with up to 23% damage or obstruction.
Readability and quiet zone
A quiet zone is a blank area surrounding the barcode that ensures accurate scanning and readability. QR Codes require a quiet zone of at least four modules (squares) on all sides, while Aztec codes do not require a quiet zone.
You can place Aztec codes closer to other graphics or text without affecting their readability. However, QR Codes must have enough space around them to prevent interference with the code scanning process.
Marketing and branding
Unlike Aztec codes, QR Codes are highly customizable. You can add branding elements like logos, colors, and images to make the QR Code more visually appealing and on-brand.
This makes them a popular choice for marketing campaigns and promotions, as you can use them to drive engagement and brand recognition. The standardized design of Aztec codes makes them less appealing for branding and marketing purposes.
Usage and popularity
The versatility, convenience, and ease of use of QR Codes have contributed to their adoption in various industries and everyday tasks. Aztec codes are common in niche applications, such as transportation tickets, government IDs, and healthcare documents. This limited usage has made Aztec codes less familiar to the general public than QR Codes.
Scanning devices
QR Codes are compatible with any device with a camera and a QR Code scanning app installed. Meanwhile, Aztec codes require specialized equipment, such as laser scanners or dedicated barcode readers, to accurately scan and decode the pattern.
This limits their compatibility with specific devices and may require businesses or individuals to invest in specialized equipment to use Aztec codes effectively.
Why you should choose Bitly QR Codes over Aztec codes
QR Codes offer a range of advantages over Aztec codes, making them the preferred choice for many businesses and individuals.
Bitly’s QR Code generator stands out as the top choice for several reasons, including its user-friendly interface, advanced analytics, and customizable options. Let’s dive into why Bitly QR Codes are an ideal solution.
Customization and branding
Bitly offers robust customization options for QR Codes. You can add your logo, choose from various colors and designs, and add images or videos to create a more visually appealing and engaging QR Code.
This level of customization sets Bitly QR Codes apart from generic, plain, black-and-white codes, making them an excellent choice for businesses looking to enhance their brand identity.
Ease of use
The user-friendly interface of Bitly’s QR Code generator makes it easy for anyone to create a QR Code using Bitly.
You don’t need prior technical knowledge or design skills to generate a custom QR Code with Bitly. The process is simple, with step-by-step instructions guiding you through each customization option. Bitly QR Codes are also effortless to scan, requiring just a camera and a QR Code scanning app.
Tracking capabilities
Bitly offers advanced tracking features that allow users to monitor and analyze their free Dynamic QR Code scans. Businesses can track the number of scans, location data, and device information, providing valuable insights into their audience and campaign performance. Businesses can understand their target audience better, make data-driven decisions, and optimize their marketing efforts for maximum impact.
Marketing potential
Omnichannel marketing strategies are becoming increasingly popular in today’s digital landscape. Integrating QR Codes into your marketing mix can help you harness the power of multiple channels and drive engagement across various touchpoints.
You can use Bitly QR Codes on print materials, digital advertisements, social media posts, and packaging to direct customers to landing pages, exclusive offers, or product information. This seamless integration of offline and online channels can streamline your overall marketing strategy’s effectiveness and increase customer engagement.
With Bitly QR Codes, you can also track and analyze the success of each channel, enabling you to make data-driven decisions for future campaigns.
Versatility and popularity
QR Codes have proven their versatility and usability in various industries, including retail, healthcare, transportation, and marketing. They offer a convenient way to share information, drive engagement, and enhance user experience. Their popularity has increased with the rise of contactless technology and the growing preference for quick, seamless interactions.
Reliability and user trust
Bitly is a trusted and reliable digital tool that millions of users worldwide trust for all their link management needs.
Bitly QR Codes are no exception when it comes to reliability and security. The codes are generated with the highest level of encryption, ensuring your data is safe.
Seal your digital success with Bitly QR Codes
Aztec codes may have been around longer, but QR Codes are now the go-to choice for businesses and individuals looking to enhance their marketing efforts, track and analyze data, and create a seamless omnichannel experience for their audience.
Bitly QR Codes offer advanced customization options, ease of use, and robust tracking capabilities, making it a top choice for QR Code generation.
Don’t limit your digital success with outdated and less versatile codes—find the Bitly solution that’s right for you and unlock QR Codes’ potential for your brand.