Is it worth paying for…

Is it worth paying for Bitly?

Last reviewed September 2026. Pricing and plans change; check Bitly's own site for current figures.

Short answer: For a fixed link, message or Wi-Fi code, a static QR code may be all you need. This generator puts your content directly into the code and downloads PNG or SVG without an account. Bitly may suit campaigns that need managed destinations or scan analytics.

Where the paywall sits

Bitly offers QR codes on both free and paid plans. Features and allowances vary; see Bitly’s current plans and QR code features. Paying can make sense for campaign management and analytics. We do not claim that every Bitly code expires or requires a subscription.

What the free version here does

Creates static codes for HTTP/HTTPS links, plain text, Wi-Fi credentials and email drafts.
Downloads PNG at 512, 1024 or 2048 pixels, or scalable SVG, with a white scanning border.
Offers a dark code colour and four error correction levels.
Runs locally with no account, tracking redirect, upload or saved content.

The code itself has no expiry date or scan allowance. A website destination must still stay available, and a static code’s contents cannot be changed after printing.

Open QR Codes — free, no account

When paying might still make sense

Consider a managed service if you need to change destinations after printing, measure scans, collaborate on campaigns or manage many branded links. Bitly documents dynamic routing for these kinds of workflows. This local generator provides fixed codes and has no scan analytics.

How this one stays free

It runs entirely in your browser. There is no server to pay for, nothing is uploaded, and the code is open source. There is nothing to cancel because there was nothing to sign up for.

Bitly is a trademark of its owner. This page compares products and is not affiliated with or endorsed by Bitly.