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Mechanics comparison

Instant QR prizes vs scratch card: which to choose

The classic scratch card and the instant QR prize chase the same thing: the thrill of instantly finding out whether you've won. What changes is how they do it and what they leave behind.

The paper scratch card is tangible and needs no phone, but it's printed in batches, gives no data and, once handed out, can't be adjusted. PrizeQR's instant prize lives on the guest's phone after scanning a QR: you tune prizes and odds on the fly, control stock in real time, measure participation and celebrate winners on a live screen.

This comparison helps you pick the mechanic that fits your event.

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Feature comparison

AspectInstant QR prize (PrizeQR)Paper scratch card
MediumGuest's phone after scanning a QRPrinted physical card
ResultInstant on screenInstant when scratched
Prize & odds controlAdjustable any timeFixed once the batch is printed
Stock controlReal time, no over-handingManual; risk of running short or long
Data & measurementScans, prizes and redemptions measurableNo data
Live winners screen
Cost per unitNo printing; monthly planPrinting cost per card
Requires phone / coverageYes (guest's phone)
SustainabilityPaper-freeGenerates paper waste

When the instant QR prize wins

  • You want to adjust prizes, odds and stock during the event without reprinting anything.
  • You need data: how many took part, what was won and what was redeemed.
  • You want a live winners screen to lift the atmosphere.
  • You'd rather not print or create waste, and avoid running out of cards mid-afternoon.

When the paper scratch card wins

  • ·Your audience may not have a phone handy or there's zero coverage at the venue.
  • ·You want a physical keepsake in the participant's hand.
  • ·It's a very one-off, small action where printing a batch is worthwhile.

Our verdict

If you value control, data and a screen that energises the event, PrizeQR's instant QR prize is more flexible and measurable. The paper scratch card still makes sense when phones aren't an option or you want a physical object in hand.

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Frequently asked questions

Is the instant QR prize more expensive than a paper scratch card?+
It depends on volume. Scratch cards have a per-card printing cost and give no data; PrizeQR's instant QR prize is a monthly plan (there's a free one) with no per-unit cost, which usually works out better once you have some volume or recurring events.
Can I control how many prizes are given out?+
Yes, and it's one of the big advantages of the instant QR prize: you define prizes, odds and stock, and PrizeQR controls it in real time so you don't over-hand or run short.
What if my customers don't have a phone?+
That's the scenario where the paper scratch card still makes sense. The instant QR prize needs the guest to have their phone and normal coverage; in exchange it gives you data, control and a live screen.
Does the instant QR prize need them to install an app?+
No. The guest scans a QR with the camera and plays in the browser, with nothing to install.
Can I see winners in real time?+
With PrizeQR, yes: there's a live winners screen to put on a TV. The paper scratch card offers nothing equivalent.

PrizeQR by use case

Trade fairs and stands Shopping malls and retail

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