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 - Specially designed battery indicator can display the remaining battery power. No more low battery anxiety. Patented Design, Patent Number 008489413.
- 2200mAh Large Battery - 2200mAh battery supports longer usage and double the stand-by time which can help you extend working hours and improve work efficiency.
- Plug and Play - 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.
- IP65 Dust & Water Proof - The anti-shock silicone protective cover can avoid scratches and friction while falling from the height of 6.56 feet. IP65 technology protects the wireless barcode scanner from dust. Increase durability and usage lifespan.
- Super 1D Decoding Capacity - Support almost all 1D Barcodes: Febraban Bank Code, Codabar, Code 11, Code93, MSI, Code 128, EAN-128, Code 39, EAN-8, EAN-13, UPC-A, ISBN, Industrial 25, Interleaved 25, Standard 25, Matrix. Read damaged, fuzzy, reflective and smudged barcodes. This scanner DOES NOT scan 2D, QR, or codes on digital Screens.
- 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
- Continuous Usage All Day: The EY-H2 USB barcode scanner is designed to always be ready for the next scan, which significantly reduces downtime and repair costs; it shortens checkout lines, improves customer service, and boosts business productivity
- Plug and Play: Eyoyo wired barcode scanner is connected via a USB cable, with no need to install any driver or software; It offers effortless connection and is compatible with Windows, Mac, Android, and Linux; Seamlessly works with Quickbook, Word, Excel, Novell, and all common software
- Supports Multiple 1D/2D Barcodes: Eyoyo QR code scanner scan with most 1D 2D barcodes with ease; 1D Barcodes: EAN, UPC, Code 39, Code 93, Code 128, UCC/EAN 128, Codabar, Interleaved 2 of 5, ITF-6, ITF-14, ISBN, ISSN, MSI-Plessey, GS1 Databar, Code 11, Industrial 25, Matrix 2 of 5, etc. 2D Barcodes: QR, DataMatrix, PDF417, and so on
- Supports Screen Scanning: The Eyoyo 2D scanner is capable of reading barcodes from smartphone screens, such as mobile coupons, digital wallets, and digital loyalty cards; Before scanning, simply turn your screen brightness to the maximum
- Sturdy Anti-Shock and Durable Design: The Eyoyo 2D barcode scanner features an ergonomic design made of high-quality ABS, enabling it to withstand repeated drops from 5 ft/1.5 m high onto the concrete ground; The durable plastic material ensures a long service life
- 【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.)
- Super Mini Pocket 1D Scanner: Completely mini pocket size and ultralight at 35 g(1.2 oz), making the Eyoyo barcode scanner a better choice for portable use, especially for bookstores, online stores, retail shops, warehouses, and similar places
- 3-in-1 Connection Ways: Easily switch between 2.4G wireless, Bluetooth, and USB wired modes to suit your needs; Eyoyo Bluetooth barcode scanner offers a transmission range of up to 30 m(98 ft) in 2.4G mode and up to 50 m(164 ft) in Bluetooth mode without barriers
- Advanced 1D Scanning Technology: The Eyoyo 1D scanner effortlessly captures almost all common 1D barcodes, including UPC/EAN, Code 39, Interleaved 2 of 5, Code 93, Code 128, Codabar, Industrial 25, Matrix 25, and more; With superior decoding capability, it also can scan damaged, distorted, colorful, and reflective barcodes
- Please Note: This scanner only supports printed 1D barcodes and does not support scanning any 1D codes or 2D QR codes from phone or computer screens or printed 2D QR codes; it is not compatible with square pos or square register systems
- High Compatibility: The Eyoyo Bluetooth scanner seamlessly connects with laptops, PCs, POS systems, smartphones, tablets, iPhones, iPads, and other devices; It is compatible with common computer operating systems such as Windows XP/7/8/10/11, Mac OS, Linux
- 【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.
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.