The no-SDK Branch.io alternative.
Branch offers mobile linking and campaign measurement. appqr.io sends visitors to an app store using one link, with a QR code included. Store routing is available on the Free plan and requires no SDK.
Key differences
- Core appqr.io store routing needs no SDK and no code changes; the optional Business beta uses a native SDK for app links and Android first-install attribution
- Add your store URLs to create a smart link and its QR code
- Free tier with 3 links and 1,000 clicks/month; Pro is $5/month, with a $47 Founding lifetime offer while available
- Branch provides cross-platform deferred deep linking and attribution. appqr.io's Business beta is limited to native app links and Android first-install attribution, with no individual iOS attribution.
Branch.io vs appqr.io
These are different tools for different jobs. Here's where each one fits.
| Feature | Branch.io | appqr.io | |
|---|---|---|---|
| SDK required | For in-app and deferred deep-linking flows | No for routing; Android SDK for the optional Business beta | appqr |
| Setup | Dashboard plus app integration for full deep linking | Store URLs; native setup only for the Business beta | appqr |
| Smart store redirect | Yes | Yes | tie |
| Deferred deep linking | Yes, cross-platform | Android first-install destination (Business beta) | Branch |
| Install attribution | Yes (full attribution suite) | Android first install only (Business beta); no individual iOS attribution | Branch |
| Traffic source attribution | Yes | Yes (UTM, ad source, referrer) | tie |
| Huawei / Samsung / Amazon stores | Limited | Built-in (all 5 stores) | appqr |
| QR codes | Available | Included free, customizable | appqr |
| UTM tracking | Yes | Yes | tie |
| Pricing | $39/mo Intro; Basics from $199/mo | Free; Pro $5/mo or $47 Founding | appqr |
| Best for | Mobile growth & attribution teams | Indie devs & small teams | tie |
When to choose Branch.io
Consider Branch when you need the following capabilities beyond appqr.io store routing and its Business beta.
- Mature cross-platform deferred deep linking. appqr.io only returns a deferred destination after a verified first Android install in its Business beta.
- Install attribution and campaign measurement across ad networks. appqr.io has limited Android first-install attribution in beta, not a full MMP or individual iOS attribution.
- Enterprise scale, integrations, and support for large growth teams.
What appqr.io includes
No SDK, no code changes
Branch's in-app and deferred deep-linking flows use its mobile SDKs. appqr.io is just a URL: it detects the device in the browser and redirects to the right store. It works with any app or framework.
Setup with your store URLs
Add your App Store and Google Play URLs in the dashboard. Save your link and download its QR code. No app release is needed.
Five supported app stores
Configure destinations for the App Store, Google Play, Huawei AppGallery, Samsung Galaxy Store, and Amazon Appstore in one link.
Customizable QR codes
Choose dot shapes, corner styles, and colors. Pro adds your app logo. Download the artwork and test it before printing.
Pricing built for indie developers
Free tier with 3 links and 1,000 tracked clicks/month. Pro is $5/mo or $47 once, with traffic source attribution included. Native app links are available in Business beta.
Skip the SDK.
Create your app download link.
One link for every app store, plus a QR code. No credit card. No integration work.
Create a free linkLast verified: August 25, 2026
appqr.io maintains this comparison using the sources below. Plans and capabilities can change. Check the vendor documentation before choosing a service. This is not an independent benchmark or a claim that the products have the same capabilities.
Primary sources: Branch plans and pricing, Branch Intro plan limits and pricing, Branch Deep Linking API overview.