A bar code reader is nothing more than a scanner capable of reading, through a laser, the bars and spaces that form a code. Generally, after receiving the information, it transmits it to a computer via cable or wireless, leaving it to the PC to decode the sequences and interpret them as they have been programmed.
Barcode scanners are mainly used in logistics companies, commercial companies, and for carrying out certain office practices. They have spread widely in recent years, so much so that they are also used in homes today.
With a barcode scanner, combined with the appropriate software, we can for example catalog and reorganize our collection of books, DVDs, CDs, and any other type of article, easily and effectively.
So here we had selected some of the latest and advanced bar code scanners that are given below.
RANK NO. 1
Tera 1D 2D QR Barcode Scanner Wireless and Wired with Battery Level Indicator...
- 【Battery Level Indicator and 2000mAh Capacity】Larger battery enables longer continuous usage and twice the stand-by time of...
- 【Ergonomic Design】 The curved handle is extended and thickened, tailor-made for North America customers. Specially designed...
- 【Anti-Shock Silicone】 The orange anti-shock silicone protective cover can avoid scratches and friction while falling from the...
- 【2.4 GHz Wireless + USB 2.0 Wired Connection】 Plug and play with the USB receiver or the USB cable, no driver installation...
- 【Digital and Printed 1D 2D QR Bar Code Symbologies】1D: Codabar, Code 11, Code93, MSI, Code 128, UCC/EAN-128, Code 39, EAN-8,...
RANK NO. 2
WoneNice USB Laser Barcode Scanner Wired Handheld Bar Code Scanner Reader Black
- Plug and play, This laser handheld barcode scanner has simple installation with any USB port and Ideal for businesses, shops and...
- 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...
- Decode Capability: Code11, Code39, Code93, Code32, Code128, Coda Bar, UPC-A, UPC-E, EAN-8, EAN-13, ISBN/ISSN, JAN.EAN/UPC...
- 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....
RANK NO. 3
NetumScan USB 1D Barcode Scanner, Handheld Wired CCD Barcode Reader Supports...
- ➤CCD Image Scanning Technology - NetumScan 1D barcode reader is equiped with advanced CCD sensor, which can quick capture 1D...
- ➤Sturdy Anti-shock and Durable Design - Ergonomic design with high-quality ABS making it can support withstand repeated drops...
- ➤Three scanning mode - Key trigger mode + Auto-induction mode + Continuous Mode. There is no need to pull the trigger in...
- ➤Supported 1D Bar Code - 1D Decode Capability: UPC-A, UPC-E, EAN-8, EAN-13, ISSN, ISBN, Code 128, GS1-128, Code39,...
- ➤Widely Use Range - This NetumScan Handheld USB barcode scanner can be used in supermarkets, convenience stores, warehouse,...
SaleRANK NO. 4
Tera Barcode Scanner Wireless with Screen: Pro Version 1D 2D QR with Setting...
- 【Unique Designed Screen Setting】It allows you to customize the screen display according to your preferences. With this...
- 【Superior Global CMOS Imaging Scanning】This advanced scanner excels in fast and accurate reading of both ordinary and...
- 【Charging Cradle & 2500mAh Large Battery】Designed with a convenient charging cradle, the HW0009 barcode scanner allows you to...
- 【3-in-1 Connections & Widely Compatible】 Tera HW0009 wireless barcode scanner can work with bluetooth & 2.4G wireless & usb...
- 【1D 2D QR code Programmable】2D: QR code, Data Matrix, PDF417(including PDF417 on driver’s license), Aztec, Maxicode, Micro...
SaleRANK NO. 5
Eyoyo Mini 1D Bluetooth Barcode Scanner, 3-in-1 Bluetooth & USB Wired & 2.4G...
- Super Mini Pocket 1D Scanner: Completely mini pocket size and ultralight at 35 g(1.2 oz), making the Eyoyo barcode scanner a...
- 3-in-1 Connection Ways: Easily switch between 2.4G wireless, Bluetooth, and USB wired modes to suit your needs; Eyoyo Bluetooth...
- Advanced 1D Scanning Technology: The Eyoyo 1D scanner effortlessly captures almost all common 1D barcodes, including UPC/EAN, Code...
- Please Note: This scanner only supports printed 1D barcodes and does not support scanning any 1D codes or 2D QR codes from phone...
- High Compatibility: The Eyoyo Bluetooth scanner seamlessly connects with laptops, PCs, POS systems, smartphones, tablets, iPhones,...
RANK NO. 6
Symcode Wireless Barcode Scanner Versatile 2-in-1 (2.4Ghz Wireless+USB 2.0...
- ✅Symcode Wireless Barcode Scanner Two connection modes: 2.4GHz wireless and USB cable connection; With Mini USB Receiver and USB...
- ✅Barcode Scanner Wireless Long Distance 2.4GHz Wireless Transmission Technology.Delivers up to 400m transmission in open...
- ✅With built-in rechargeable battery, Integrated 2000mAh Li-Ion battery,standby of more than half a year if fully charged;...
- ✅Network mode available:One to one ,More to one.Multiple scanners can transmit data to the one wireless receiver - ideal in a...
- ✅Two working mode: Instant upload mode / storage mode. Internal offline storage supports up to 100,000 barcodes in offline...
RANK NO. 7
NetumScan Automatic Omnidirectional Desktop Barcode Scanner, Hands-Free USB...
- ➽【Omnidirectional Automatic Barcode scanner】NetumScan Barcode Scanner can easily capture bar codes 1D, 2D/QR on labels,...
- ➽【Automatic Smart Sensing Scanning】Specially equipped induction trigger, the desktop barcode scanner support auto-sensing...
- ➽【Non-slip Base and Anti-shock Design】Our Handsfree Omnidirectional Barcode Scanner can be directly placed on the desk, the...
- ➽【Improve Your Efficiency】Compared with handheld barcode scanner, our handsfree barcode scanner is more free of your hands,...
- ➽【Plug and Play, Easy to Use】No need to install any software or app, Our desktop barcode scanner is Plug and play. Easily...
SaleRANK NO. 8
NETUM QR Code Scanner, Mini Barcode Scanner Bluetooth Compatible, Small Portable...
- The imager Barcode Scanner is equiped with advanced CMOS sensor, which can easily capture 1D/ 2D（QR/ PDF417/ Data Matrix,etc）...
- 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...
- Manual Scan & Auto-sensing Scan & Continuous Scan. 1200mAh battery ensures 20 hours of continuous handsfree scanning, no pressing...
- Two upload mode :Instant upload mode / Storage mode. Internal offline storage supports up to 100,000 barcodes in offline storage...
RANK NO. 9
ScanAvenger Wireless Portable 1D&2D with Stand Bluetooth Barcode Scanner: 3-in-1...
- Does Not work with Square, Shopify or Shopkeep
- No Software Needed: No need to download or install any software or apps with this sleek handheld 3-in-1 wireless, Bluetooth, and...
- Next Gen Smart Charging Stand: One base that can do it all. Wireless Transmission from stand to scanner. Holds scanner. Charges...
- Scan Modes: Connect to Mac or Windows computers, Android or Apple mobile devices, and POS systems to start scanning barcodes with...
- Code Compatibility: Scan 1D barcodes including UPC, EAN, Code128, Code39, Code11, Codabar, and many others; Scan 2D barcodes...
RANK NO. 10
Eyoyo EYH2 Handheld USB 2D Barcode Scanner, Wired Automatic QR Code Scanner...
- Continuous Usage All Day: The EY-H2 USB barcode scanner is designed to always be ready for the next scan, which significantly...
- Plug and Play: Eyoyo wired barcode scanner is connected via a USB cable, with no need to install any driver or software; It offers...
- Supports Multiple 1D/2D Barcodes: Eyoyo QR code scanner scan with most 1D 2D barcodes with ease; 1D Barcodes: EAN, UPC, Code 39,...
- Supports Screen Scanning: The Eyoyo 2D scanner is capable of reading barcodes from smartphone screens, such as mobile coupons,...
- Sturdy Anti-Shock and Durable Design: The Eyoyo 2D barcode scanner features an ergonomic design made of high-quality ABS, enabling...
RANK NO. 11
JIAN BOLAND Barcode Scanner USB 1D Wired CCD Barcode Reader Supports Screen Scan...
- Plug and Play: Handheld 1D Barcode Scanner is easy to install and uses a wired USB port, making it ideal for document management...
- Support for scanning screens: Bar code scanners gun using advanced CCD sensors, can be completed from the screen and paper to...
- Compatibility: USB barcode scanner 300 scans/s, the farthest recognition distance of 20cm, support for Windows, Mac and Linux;...
- Supports almost all 1D Barcodes: EAN, UPC, Code 39, Code 93, Code 128, UCC/EAN 128, Codabar, Interleaved 2 of 5, ITF-6, ITF-14,...
- Ergonomic design: the use of high-quality ABS + PC material, feel comfortable, can withstand a height of 1.5M fall to the impact...
RANK NO. 12
Alacrity Upgraded 2D Industrial Barcode Scanner with Wireless Charging Stand,...
- 【High-Resolution Industrial Scan Engine】 The Alacrity barcode scanner incorporates a cutting-edge scan module equipped with a...
- 【Exceptional Signal Range】 The Alacrity 433MHz RF wireless barcode scanner stands out with its long-distance transmission...
- 【Wireless Charging for Ultimate Convenience】 Experience the freedom of wireless charging by effortlessly placing the scanner...
- 【Industrial-Grade Superior Durability】 The Alacrity industrial barcode reader boasts exceptional durability with a robust ABS...
- 【Versatile Customized Configuration Options】 Handsfree Intelligent sensor mode/ Trigger scan mode. Vibration/buzzer settings....
Buying Guide to Select the Best Barcode Scanners
Today on the market there are many different models of barcode readers. Precisely because there are many alternatives, it is important to clarify a series of concepts and doubts that revolve around the topic. Below we will go into more detail, trying to clearly explain how this scanner works and for what functions it is usually used.
When Did the First Barcode Reader Start Operating?
The first barcode ever was developed by an American science student in the late 1940s. The idea came after he inadvertently listened to two businessmen who complained about the slowness of the process by which customers’ products were differentiated and paid for at the checkout.
The invention was patented in 1948, but only in the following years did it begin to spread. The definitive success was achieved in 1974 when the company Symbol Technologies gave birth to the first real barcode reader.
The first-ever code was read in the Troy supermarket, a small town in Ohio, for a pack of chewing gum. In 1980 the same company also developed the first manual laser reader.
How Do You Connect the Barcode Reader to Your Computer?
Almost all the latest generation readers are equipped with USB connection, the fastest and most reliable. In this case, to connect the scanner, simply connect it to the USB port of the computer, without downloading any additional software.
Many models also have built-in Bluetooth and wifi function, which makes them even more comfortable to use because they avoid having annoying cables between their feet. Radiofrequency readers are those most used by logistics companies and in department stores.
They do not require the use of cables and the connection quality is better than Bluetooth, which is why they are the most recommended for professional needs. These are reinforced tools, manufactured to withstand knocks, falls, and outdoor use.
What Are the Advantages and Disadvantages of A Barcode Reader?
In the table below we have related the advantages and disadvantages of using these devices in the workplace. Although the benefits they bring are far more numerous than the negative notes, the possible drawbacks should not be overlooked: they are the ones that indicate which elements or characteristics are decisive for our specific needs for use.
Advantages
- Speed of customer service
- Avoid price or quantity errors
- Improve staff performance
- Faster and more reliable inventory
- Possibility of coding all sorts of articles
- Improve productivity
- Costs are cut
Disadvantages
- Important initial investment
- Possible errors in reading data from worn labels
- Investment in staff training
- Possible imbalances in the inventory due to the wrong use of the scanner
How Can I Generate Bar Codes Recognizable by Readers?
Investing in a good barcode reader is important, as is making sure that the labels to be scanned are legible. You can use Exel or other free online programs to create your codes, try to process them effectively so that they adapt to your needs.
If you will use the scanner in working environments, we advise you to complete the purchase with a laser printer or a label maker, useful for capturing data through the scanner itself.
The quality of the paper on which the labels are printed is another relevant factor, we certainly do not want to constantly run into problems reading the codes. In short, it is always better to be careful in every detail and not leave anything to chance.
You can choose any type of numbering you want for your business, as long as it is applied to products for internal use within the company. If, on the other hand, you have to identify your products from a legal point of view.
In order to be able to distribute them, you will need to obtain the various permits through the relevant bodies, which will take care of authorizing the required barcodes.
Why Is It Better to Use a Barcode Reader Rather than An App?
For several years now, smartphone applications capable of reading bar codes have spread. These apps, often free, can scan many of the most used codes, including QR for advertising. However, these are applications intended for single-use, not regular, certainly not professional.
Many of these, such as those that support us in cataloging our books or CDs, has an integrated barcode reader. The use made of it, therefore, is above all recreational and limited to the home environment, and the performance it guarantees cannot be compared to a real barcode scanner, not even to the cheapest models on the market.
Type of Bar Codes Used
Most barcode scanners can read both linear and two-dimensional (2D) scanners. The former is the most common on an industrial, commercial, and logistical level.
As for 2D codes, which can store more information, we must say that they are not very extensive, therefore some readers cannot read them because they are too compressed.
2D code reading scanners are also the most popular because they allow you to capture codes from all angles, generating faster scanning than readers who only interpret linear codes. They are also more reliable in reading irregular or partially damaged surfaces.
Environmental Conditions
Another relevant aspect is that concerning the environmental conditions in which the device will be used. Industrial scanners are drop and impact-resistant, and well sealed to prevent dust or moisture from entering internal gears.
They have been reinforced to withstand even the most extreme conditions. Some professional barcode readers are equipped with rubber protection, not only to facilitate its grip but also to cushion any shocks or jolts. They must also be able to be used in extremely hot or cold environments, therefore the quality of the manufacturing material is really important: think carefully before making reckless choices.
Frequency of Use
The frequency with which we will use this accessory varies according to the method of use. The barcode readers for the industry are very resistant and reliable, able to scan faster and at a greater distance than other less performing models.
They cost more, it is true, but the expense is compensated by higher efficiency and prolonged durability. If, on the other hand, you have a small company, you can focus on a more modest, fixed, or laser gun barcode reader, still capable of reading 1D and 2D codes.
The volume of your sales is the main parameter on which to focus to find the most suitable model. For a kiosk or a bar, a pistol reader will be enough, for example, while for a small supermarket, a fixed omnidirectional reader will be more suitable.
