With the introduction of computers in the workplace, the need for a faster and more accurate way to read and process information became more apparent. Bar code scanners were developed to help automate the process of cataloging and tracking inventory, as well as to help speed up transactions at checkout. To help you select the best bar code scanner for your needs, we’ve rounded up the top products on the market.
Read on to learn more about our favorite bar code scanners.
Our Editor’s Best Bar Code Scanners Reviews
- 【Battery Level Indicator and 2200mAh Capacity】Larger battery enables longer continuous usage and twice the stand-by time of others. With the unique battery indicator light showing the remaining battery level, no more Low Battery Anxiety.
- 【Ergonomic Design】 The curved handle is extended and thickened, tailor-made for North America customers. Specially designed smooth and flat trigger for better grip. 【Package Includes】Barcode Scanner x1, USB Cable x1, Dongle x1, User Manual x1.
- 【Anti-Shock Silicone】 The orange anti-shock silicone protective cover can avoid scratches and friction while falling from the height of 6.56 feet. IP54 technology protects the wireless barcode scanner from dust.
- 【2.4 GHz Wireless plus USB 2.0 Wired Connection】 Plug and play with the USB receiver or the USB cable, no driver installation needed. Easy and quick to set up. Wireless transmission distance reaches up to 328 ft. in barrier free environment.
- 【Digital and Printed 1D 2D QR Bar Code Symbologies】1D: Codabar, Code 11, Code93, MSI, Code 128, UCC/EAN-128, Code 39, EAN-8, EAN-13, UPC-A, ISBN, Industrial 25, Interleaved 25, Standard25, Matrix 2D: QR, DataMatrix, Aztec, Hanxin, Micro PDF417. (Note: Not compatible with Square.)
- Plug and play, This laser handheld barcode scanner has simple installation with any USB port and Ideal for businesses, shops and warehouse operations. Its function is unbeatable and easy to use, design is stylish
- Compatible with Windows, Mac, and Linux; works with Word, Excel, Novell, and all common software
- Scanning Speed: 200 scans per second. Scanning angle: Inclination angle 55°, Elevation angle 65°. Operational Light Source:Visible Laser 650-670nm.
- Decode Capability: Code11, Code39, Code93, Code32, Code128, Coda Bar, UPC-A, UPC-E, EAN-8, EAN-13, ISBN/ISSN, JAN.EAN/UPC Add-on2/5 MSI/Plessey, Telepen and China Postal Code,Interleaved 2 of 5, Industrial 2 of 5, Matrix 2 of 5, etc ; 300 configurable options for prefix, suffix and termination strings, support turn on/off the beep.
- Color: Black. Dimensions: 3.6 x 2.6 x 6.1 inches. Type of Cable: 2M or 6ft straight cable. Shock: 1.5m drop on concrete surface. Regulatory Approvals: FCC CE.
- 【Unique Designed Screen Setting】It allows you to customize the screen display according to your preferences. With this innovative feature, you can easily set the language, adjust volume settings, select connection options, and view stored and total barcodes. Experience unparalleled convenience and flexibility as you personalize the settings of your Tera HW0009 to suit your specific needs. 【Package Includes: Barcode Scanner x1, Charging Cradle x1, Charging Cable x1, User Manual x1】
- 【Superior Global CMOS Imaging Scanning】This advanced scanner excels in fast and accurate reading of both ordinary and high-density barcodes, including challenging formats like PDF417 found on driver's licenses. Its exceptional performance effortlessly handles various scanning scenarios, including underwater scanning, reading barcodes on silver paper, reflective materials, and more.
- 【Charging Cradle & 2500mAh Large Battery】Designed with a convenient charging cradle, the HW0009 barcode scanner allows you to easily charge it whenever it's not in use. In addition, the scanner itself is equipped with a powerful 2500mAh battery, ensuring seamless all-day operation without the need for frequent charging.
- 【3-in-1 Connections & Widely Compatible】 Tera HW0009 wireless barcode scanner can work with bluetooth & 2.4G wireless & usb wired. The transmission distance can be 328ft in barrier free environment and 114ft in obstacles environment using 2.4G USB dongle. It can be connected with a variety of devices, such as smartphones, computers, POS, tablets. In addition, it is also compatible with various operating systems, such as windows 11/10/8/7/xp, Mac OS, iOS, android, linux.
- 【1D 2D QR code Programmable】2D: QR code, Data Matrix, PDF417(including PDF417 on driver’s license), Aztec, Maxicode, Micro QR, Micro PDF417; 1D: UPC/EAN, Code 128/EAN128, GS1-128, ISBT-128, Standard 2 of 5, Matrix 2 of 5, Code 39, Code 32, Code 93, Code 11, Codabar, PLESSEY, MSI, GSI Databar, ITF-14, GS1.
- The imager Barcode Scanner is equiped with advanced CMOS sensor, which can easily capture 1D/ 2D（QR/ PDF417/ Data Matrix,etc） bar codes from paper and screen, such as computer monitor, smartphone or tablet, effectively compensate for the problem that laser scanner can not identify screen code.
- Physical power switch: save energy in case of error operation.
- The Pocket bar code scanner comes with 3-in-1 Connection Design：Compatible with Bluetooth Function; 2.4G Wireless connection receiver; Wired connection. Easily connected with your laptop, PC, mobile phone, tablet, iphone, ipad, POS. Work with Windows XP/7/8/10, Mac OS, Windows Mobile, Android OS, iOS
- Manual Scan & Auto-sensing Scan & Continuous Scan. 1200mAh battery ensures 20 hours of continuous handsfree scanning, no pressing the button for efficiency.
- Two upload mode :Instant upload mode / Storage mode. Internal offline storage supports up to 100,000 barcodes in offline storage mode. Scan and store barcode when far away from the receiver, and then batch upload the data to your device when you need it.
- 【Battery Level Indicator and 2200mAh Capacity】Larger battery enables longer continuous usage and twice the stand-by time of others. With the unique battery indicator light showing the remaining battery level, no more Low Battery Anxiety.
- 【Ergonomic Design】 The curved handle is extended and thickened, tailor-made for North America customers. Specially designed smooth and flat trigger for better grip. 【Package Includes】Barcode Scanner x1, USB Cable x1, Dongle x1, User Manual x1
- 【Anti-Shock Silicone】 The orange anti-shock silicone protective cover can avoid scratches and friction while falling from the height of 6.56 feet. IP54 technology protects the wireless barcode scanner from dust.
- 【2.4 GHz Wireless + USB 2.0 Wired Connection】 Plug and play with the USB receiver or the USB cable, no driver installation needed. Easy and quick to set up. Wireless transmission distance reaches up to 328 ft. in barrier free environment.
- 【Digital and Printed 1D 2D QR Bar Code Symbologies】1D: Codabar, Code 11, Code93, MSI, Code 128, UCC/EAN-128, Code 39, EAN-8, EAN-13, UPC-A, ISBN, Industrial 25, Interleaved 25, Standard25, Matrix 2D: QR, DataMatrix, PDF417, Aztec, Hanxin, Micro PDF417. (Note: Not compatible with Square.)
- Compatible with most POS systems except those requiring proprietary hardware integrations or direct app-level integration
- No Software Needed: No need to download or install any software or apps with this sleek handheld 3-in-1 wireless, Bluetooth, and USB scanner with vibration capabilities to help in noisy environments.
- Next Gen Smart Charging Stand: One base that can do it all. Wireless Transmission from stand to scanner. Holds scanner. Charges scanner's built-in rechargeable Li-Ion battery via lighting connectors
- Scan Modes: Connect to Mac or Windows computers, Android or Apple mobile devices, and POS systems to start scanning barcodes with one of the 3 available modes - manual, continuous, and auto sense
- Code Compatibility: Scan 1D barcodes including UPC, EAN, Code128, Code39, Code11, Codabar, and many others; Scan 2D barcodes including PDF417, Aztec code, Data Matrix, QR Code, Micro PDF, Interleaved, and others. Doesn't work with Maxicode
- Widely Compatible: Bluetooth Barcode Scanner for iPhone iPad Android Tablet PC, Support HID / SPP / BLE mode via bluetooth, Work with Windows XP/7/8/10, Mac OS, Windows Mobile, Android OS, iOS, Linux.
- Strong Recognition Ability: With the 2500 pixels high-resolution CCD sensor Engine, Rapidly decodes all 1D and stacked barcodes (including ISBN book), even worn, damaged or tightly spaced codes. Scan 1D codes directly from paper or screen, such as a computer monitor, smartphone, or tablet, or scan through glass surfaces, plastic shrink wrap, a CCD scanner is likely the best way to go.
- Automatic Scanning: NT-1228bc barcode scanner have three scanning modes: manual trigger mode, continuous scanning mode and auto-sensing scanning mode. In addition, there is a storage mode. Storage mode can be used when you are out of range of Bluetooth and wireless connectivity. Supports storage of up to 100,000 barcodes. Note: Before use, you need to scan the corresponding setting barcode on the manual.
- 2600mAh Battery Upgraded: Continuous scanning up to 200,000 times on a full charge. After a full charge the scanner can be used for one month at least, even in warehouses and at pos checkout counters where scanners are frequently used. In libraries and hospitals it can be used even longer.
- Programmable Configuration: Add custom prefixes/ suffixes, delete characters, Add keyboard keys/ combinations (terminator TAB, CR&LF, Home etc.), Enable or disable the barcode type as you want. In addition to a sound and LED illumination, when a scan is successful, you will receive a tactile signal in the form of a mild vibration. Buzzer can be set to mute to allow for a quiet operation.(Note: It does not work with square POS / Divalto / DoorDash / Lightspeed POS system)
- 【Excellent Decording Ability】This bluetooth 2D QR barcode scanner equipped with a excellent CMOS sensor, could be omnidirectional reading of 1D, 2D, Postal bar codes, support full 2D barcodes like PDF417, Data Matrix, QR Code.This image bar code scanners not only reading barcodes from paper but also from phone ,laptop or PC screen .A great convenience for mobile payment at stores
- 【3 in 1 Bluetooth Wireless Connection】Compatible with Bluetooth Function; 2.4G Wireless connection receiver; Wired connection. Easily connected with your laptop, PC, mobile phone, tablet, iphone, ipad, POS. Work with Windows XP/7/8/10, Mac OS, Windows Mobile, Android OS, iOS,.Easily adapt to various scenarios, making data connection no longer a problem
- 【Instant upload mode & Storage mode】: the wireless barcode scanner has 2 upload mode. Internal offline storage supports up to 130,00 barcodes in offline storage mode. Scan and store barcode when far away from the receiver of your device, and then update. Managing your data becomes even easier
- 【Long Working Time & Fast Scanning Speed】: Large 2600mAh Battery Fully Upgraded, it can support more than 9 hours Continuous scanning and 2 months standby after 4hours full charge. The scanning speed can up to 300 Times/Second.
- 【1 Years Warranty】NETUM focus on providing good products and service, 1 year warranty from the date of purchase. If there is any issue, please feel free to contact us.
- ➤CCD Image Scanning Technology - NetumScan 1D barcode reader is equiped with advanced CCD sensor, which can quick capture 1D codes from paper and screen, including CODE128, UPC/EAN Add on 2 or 5, that can read even deformed barcodes, i.e. smudged, damaged, fuzzy, reflective barcodes, etc. Reading faster and more accurate than laser scanner.
- ➤Sturdy Anti-shock and Durable Design - Ergonomic design with high-quality ABS making it can support withstand repeated drops from 2m high to the concrete ground, durable to use. Durable plastic material guarantees long service life.
- ➤Three scanning mode - Key trigger mode + Auto-induction mode + Continuous Mode. There is no need to pull the trigger in auto-sensing mode and continuous scanning. Sometimes the self-sensing scanning function is in the inactive stage, please contact us and be at your service at any time.
- ➤Supported 1D Bar Code - 1D Decode Capability: UPC-A, UPC-E, EAN-8, EAN-13, ISSN, ISBN, Code 128, GS1-128, Code39, Code93,Code32, Code11, UCC/EAN128, Interleaved 2 of 5, Industrial 2 of 5, Codabar(NW-7), MSI, Plessey, RSS, China Post, etc.
- ➤Widely Use Range - This NetumScan Handheld USB barcode scanner can be used in supermarkets, convenience stores, warehouse, library, bookstore, drugstore, retail shop for file management, inventory tracking and POS(point of sale), etc.
- ❤️ Better Barcode Scanner, More Convenient Work ❤️
- 🔥Setting Keypad & LCD Display & Al Voice: Compared with traditional barcode scanners on the market, ❶Customizable Menu - Setting keypad helps you to set up various functions (No more need to scan the complex barcodes for settings). ❷1.5" LCD Screen to display the Setting, Wireless, Bluetooth, Battery, Scanning and Storage Status for easier and more intuitive operation. ❸Say goodbye to the buzzer, AI Voice will prompt the usage status like friend.
- ✨800 X 600 Pixel CMOS Scanning Technology: KUIIYER Bluetooth Barcode Scanner adopts the international advanced CMOS image sensor and upgraded to 800 × 600 pixels, Supports 1D, 2D, QR, screen code and compatible with universal POS systems (Note: Not Compatible with Square POS system), 360 ° Scanning barcodes in any direction, Longer reading distance, Reading faster and more accurate than traditional CCD or laser scanner.
- 🔋Bluetooth/Wireless + 2000mAh Larger Capacity Battery: Continuous working for 6-7 hours (Scanning every 5 seconds) after full charge, Meet more application scenarios. KUIIYER Handheld Barcode Scanner can directly connect with PC/ POS by 2.4Ghz Wireless USB or USB cable, No drive/ software needed. Compatible with Computers' Windows, Macos, Linux and universal POS systems. Bluetooth Connection will support for iPad, iPhone, Android, Tablet etc.
- 💡3 Scanning Modes + 2 Data Uploading Modes & Built-in Auxiliary Light: ❶Setting 3 scanning modes through the user manual, 1. Manual Trigger Mode, 2. Auto-sensing Scan Mode, 3. Continuous Scan Mode. ❷In addition to the normal mode of instant upload, KUIIYER wireless Barcode Scanner is equipped with the Inventory mode for storing over 50,000 barcodes. ❸Built-in Auxiliary Light can be used in different lighting environments, Highly applicable.
Best Bar Code Scanners Buying Guide
Before choosing the best bar code scanners you should consider following options:
1. Decide on the type of barcode scanner: There are three types of barcode scanners available: handheld, desktop and tablet.
If you’re looking for a portable model to use in the office or on the move, you have a choice between handheld and wearable barcode scanners.
The main difference is that handheld barcode scanners have a single long handle, while wearable scanners are designed to clip onto your pocket or scan the barcode while it’s in your line of sight.
Desktop barcode scanners are self-explanatory, and are designed to sit on a desk.
2. Decide on the type of scanner technology: You also need to consider the different types of scanner technology available and which one best suits your requirements.
Laser scanners are the most accurate, but they may be exposed to high levels of dust and moisture.
They also have a shorter lifespan than their counterparts, and are more expensive.
Stick scanners are the least expensive, but they are not as accurate.
The third option is a 2D scanner, which is suitable for reading barcodes printed on labels or packaging.
3. Decide on the resolution and sampling rate: Resolution refers to the level of detail the scanner can capture.
The higher the resolution, the greater detail the image will have, so a barcode can be easily read.
If the resolution is too low, the image will be blurry and the barcode scanner may have difficulty reading the code.
The sampling rate refers to how quickly the scanner can capture an image. The faster the sampling rate, the faster the scanner can capture and read the code.
4. Decide on connectivity options: You also need to consider the connectivity options the scanner offers.
This will help you determine how it can be integrated into your existing workflow.
Some barcode scanners offer Wi-Fi connectivity, while others may have Bluetooth connectivity, offering the flexibility to be used in many different environments.
5. Decide on the total cost of ownership: The cost of a barcode scanner should not only include the price of the device itself but also the total cost of ownership.
This includes all the ongoing maintenance, service and support costs.
Some barcode scanners come with comprehensive warranties, while others only offer limited warranties.
Some companies offer warranties on the hardware and others on the software.
It’s also important to consider any included or optional services, such as annual or biannual maintenance contracts.
You should also consider the cost of consumables, such as batteries, sleeves and labels.
What else you should know about bar code scanners
1. What is a bar code scanner?
A bar code scanner is a device that can read and interpret bar codes.
2. How do bar code scanners work?
The bar code scanner is a device that can read and interpret barcodes. It consists of a light source, a lens and a light sensor that converts the barcode image into electrical signals. These signals are then decoded by the scanner and sent to a computer for further processing.
3. What are the benefits of using a bar code scanner?
Some benefits of using a bar code scanner include increased accuracy, efficiency, and productivity. Bar code scanners can help reduce errors, save time, and improve your bottom line.
4. What are the different types of bar code scanners?
The most common types of bar code scanners are handheld scanners, fixed-position scanners, and in-counter scanners.
5. How do I choose the right bar code scanner for my business?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the best bar code scanner for your business will depend on a number of factors, including the type of business you have, the products you sell, and the volume of sales you make. However, there are a few things to keep in mind that will help you choose the right bar code scanner for your business. First, you will need to decide whether you need a handheld or desktop bar code scanner. If you have a small business with low volume sales, a handheld scanner may be sufficient. However, if you have a larger business with high volume sales, you will likely need a desktop scanner. Second, you will need to decide on the features you need. Some bar code scanners come with built-in memory, while others require an external memory card. You will also want to consider the scanning speed and accuracy of the scanner. Finally, you will need to decide on a budget. Bar code scanners can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars.
Conclusion
On the market, there are numerous best bar code scanners. Hopefully, the list of the top ten best bar code scanners will save you time researching and deciding on the best one for you.