Barcode scanner types and how they connect

For a desk or counter, a wired USB scanner is the plain choice. For walking round a stockroom, look at wireless. For occasional checks, a phone camera can read codes. Each option has trade-offs, listed below. The sections that follow set out the scanner types the sources describe, how each one connects, and what to check before you choose one.

Types by how they read

• Laser. Laser barcode scanners use a semiconductor laser diode to produce a laser beam.¹
• Imaging (camera-based). These use a camera and image processing to decode the barcode.¹ GS1 recommends scanners with imaging-based capabilities.²
• Omnidirectional. Omnidirectional scanners are also better at reading poorly printed, wrinkled or even torn barcodes.¹
• 2D codes can be read by 2D optical scanners. Purpose-built 2D optical scanners can read them. A mobile device with a built-in camera can also act as a reader using the right app.³

Types by how they connect

• USB, wired. The scanner plugs into the computer. With a keyboard-wedge style, the scanned characters land as if someone typed them.¹ In software, the cursor must sit in the right field.
• Bluetooth or other wireless. Some modern handheld readers can be operated in wireless networks.¹ You pair it with the computer or tablet once. You'll find the steps in the maker's manual.
• Battery life. Readers without external power sources require their batteries be recharged occasionally, which may make them unsuitable for some uses.¹
• Phone or tablet camera. A mobile device with a built-in camera can act as a reader using the right app.³

Phone camera: what to expect

• It works for some codes better than others. Cell phone cameras without auto-focus are not ideal for reading some common barcode formats.¹
• Think about volume. If staff scan all day, try a dedicated scanner and a phone side by side with your own labels, then decide.
• Your app decides the formats. Ask your inventory software which camera types it supports. The software page shows one example.

Trade-offs side by side

The table repeats the points above in short form.

Before you choose

• Match your barcode types. Does the scanner read what you print? See common barcode types.
• Match your software. Check which scanner types the software's help pages mention, and whether the scanner sends data to a computer the way the software expects.¹
• Check the power. A reader without an external power source needs its batteries recharged now and then.¹
• Think about the labels. Printing barcode labels covers quiet zones and check digits.
• Test with your own stock. Scan twenty of your real labels, from several angles. Count the ones that fail.