This post may contain affiliate links, which means that we get commissions for purchases made through such links, at no additional cost to you. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
This post is the ultimate guide on the top 10 best barcode scanners for small businesses. You need a barcode scanner to simplify inventory management for your small business. And it’s a good thing that there are many options available. These different options come with variations in range, versatility, and durability.
It could be quite tiring when you have to sort through all the options, and it becomes even more confusing when you have to make a choice. That’s why we have undertaken to search the market, examine several options, and recommend the top 10 barcode scanner models for small businesses. We have also included other relevant information on barcode scanners. You should read this post if you own a small business.
What Is The Best Barcode Scanners for Small Businesses?
The best barcode scanner for small businesses will have stellar features that make it fast, accurate, and versatile. The ideal barcode scanners for small businesses are also portable and pocket-friendly. Essentially, you should be looking for a simple and easy to use, portable barcode scanner that has wide-ranging capabilities. A barcode scanner of this sort will make help your business flourish.
✅ This specific product is our choice of barcode scanner for small businesses. It is well-priced, effective, and durable. It also offers wireless scanning from a long distance.
If you run a small business or you intend to open one, a barcode scanner is very vital for efficient operations. It will help you take and organize your stock properly. A barcode scanner will also help you pull up the prices of products when your customers are at the payment counter. These, among other benefits, promote a steady and uninterrupted transaction flow.
There are different brands of barcode scanners and each brand has various models in their line of barcode scanners. This is because when it comes to barcode scanners, you can’t take a “one size fits all” approach. Ultimately, the best barcode scanner for your small business will depend on the peculiar inventory and warehousing needs of your business.
That being that, we are not going to leave you to figure things out on your own. We have done comprehensive research, and we have identified the top 10 best barcode scanners you can use for small businesses. No matter what your inventory and warehousing needs are, you will surely find a suitable model from the list below.
The Top 10 Best Barcode Scanners for Small Businesses
#1. NADAMOO Bur3003 Wireless Laser Barcode Scanner
This wireless barcode reader is Amazon’s Choice for “barcode scanner” because of the high quality and good price. It can only read 1D linear barcodes but this is good enough for retail stores, libraries, supermarkets, libraries, and more. It delivers long-range wireless transmission through advanced wireless technology. The signals can even penetrate ceilings, walls, and floors effectively.
When there is no obstacle or barrier, this barcode reader can scan codes at a distance of 400 meters (437 yards). But when there are obstacles, the transmission distance will reduce depending on the amount and type of obstacle. What’s more, you can connect as many as 32 scanners to one NADAMOO USB receiver. This makes it an ideal product for small businesses, as well as warehouse applications where several people will be scanning barcodes to the same computer.
This scanner has two upload modes. The instant mode will read barcodes and upload them right away to the computer file. Conversely, the storage mode stores the barcode in the scanner’s built-in memory for later upload to the computer file. The internal storage can support up to 100,000 barcodes.
#2. Esky ES01 Handheld Barcode Scanner
This scanner is highly accurate and ultra-fast. It senses, identifies, and uploads barcodes at a record speed of 100 times per second. What’s more, it’s handheld and convenient, and it’s compatible with Mac, Windows, and Linux operating systems. You can also use it with Excel, Word, QuickBooks, Novell, and other common software.
The scanner is easy to set up. Once you plug its USB cord into the computer’s USB port or any other host device, you can begin scanning immediately. It’s also lightweight and has a convenient handle, so you can use it without much stress.
#3. WoneNice USB Laser Barcode Scanner
This is another laser handheld scanner that makes the list for Amazon’s Choice of barcode scanners. It is easy to install and requires no special software. You can use this scammer for retail businesses, as well as warehouse inventory operations. Its stylish design and unbeatable function are the reasons why many experts and users recommend it as one of the best scanners on the market.
WoneNice WN3300 works well with all the common software applications and scans all standard 1D codes at a remarkable speed of 200 scans per second. It’s one of the fastest low-budget barcode scanners available today. But it only works on devices with a USB port. It is not enabled for wireless operations and will not work on iPads, smartphones, google tablets, etc.
#4. TaoTronics Laser Barcode Scanner
TaoTronics BS003 offers improved and highly accurate performance. Its speed even outshines that of WoneNice WN3300, with its ultra-fast speed of 400 scans in a second. What’s more, this wired scanner offers auto-sensing functionality. Its laser head has an extended lifespan so it’s a durable scanner that you can count on. TaoTronics BS003 can’t read 2D barcodes or barcodes from screens, but they are highly accurate at scanning 1D barcodes.
#5. Tera Versatile Wireless Barcode Reader
Tera brand is well-known for making high-quality barcode scanners. Their top-notch research centers justify why they make excellent products. Their barcode readers offer exclusive advanced features, including outstanding shock proofing and Nano Waterproofing. This scanner supports as many as 25 languages.
This scanner can read as many as 300 barcodes per second. Its built-in 1300 mAh battery is so strong. After charging it to full capacity in 3-4 hours, you can operate it for as long as two weeks before you need to charge it again.
#6. Dodocool Barcode Scanner
This barcode scanner requires no complicated settings or diver installation. All you need do is plug the USB cord into the computer, and then you can start scanning. The scanner is not only fast but also accurate and long-lasting. What’s more, it has an error rate of 1 out of 5million, which is very awesome. Its 57.87 inches long USB cord also allows flexible scanning.
As with many of the other models on our list, you can make a quick switch between manual scanning and auto-continuous scan modes. Its ergonomic handle and comfortable buttons make it an easy device to operate. What’s more, it has multiple applications and offers a wide range of customizable settings for various needs.
#7. Fangtek USB Handheld Scanner
This handheld laser scanner can read and decode one-dimensional colored barcodes at a speed of 200 times per second. It is not effective and can work well in various hash conditions. It can read barcodes on glass or plastic substrate, in the dark, under bright sunlight, or on reflective and curved surfaces. The manufacturers claim that it can read damaged, wrinkled, scratched, and other types of low-quality barcodes. Customers have confirmed that this is largely true.
#8. Inateck Bluetooth Barcode Scanner
You can complete the setup of this scanner in just 3 seconds. And it works well with a wide range of devices, including iOS, Android, Mac OS, Windows, Linux, Raspberry Pi, POS, etc. It also has a strong and accurate barcode recognition ability. It supports ultra-fast scanning and can read damaged or blurry barcodes under dim and strong light.
Inateck barcode scanner is Bluetooth-enabled and has a prolonged connection distance and battery life. A full battery charge will be sufficient for 15 working days. This means less downtime and zero shift interruptions. What’s more, its connection distance is more than 35 meters.
#9. WoneNice WN6300 Wireless Barcode Scanner
WN6300 is the second WoneNice product on our list but unlike WN3300, it’s a wireless scanner. It’s Amazon’s Choice for “Hand Scanner”. It is well-priced and highly effective. It can read barcoded from a 30 meters (100 feet) transmission distance in the absence of barriers. And you can connect as many as 10 scanners to the same wireless receiver at the same time.
WN 6300 has silicone anti-shock protection from scratches and damage. This sturdy build protects the wireless barcode scanner from drops and falls from heights and high as 6.6 feet.
#10. Symcode Barcode Scanner
Symcode barcode scanner has 180 configuration options for termination strings, prefix, and suffix. It also works seamlessly with all the common software programs. It is handheld, comfortable, and very fast. You can scan 150 times in one second. And for all of these, you wouldn’t have to install any special application or software.
What Do Barcode Scanners Scan?
Barcode scanners read or scan barcode symbols. After reading the barcode symbol, the scanner decodes the information in it and transmits it electronically to a PC via a cable and decoder. The decoder not only recognizes the barcode symbol but it also translates the information and transmits it to your computer in a format that you can read.
How Do I Scan A Barcode With My Phone?
To scan a QR code with your iPhone, all you need do is launch the phone’s camera app and hold it over the QR code. Make sure to use the rear camera because front cameras are not equipped with this function. When the QR code appears in your camera’s viewfinder, your device will recognize it and you’ll get a notification. Upon tapping the notification, the link embedded in the code will open.
If you are using an iPhone or any Apple mobile device like iPod touch or iPad, you can use the device’s built-in camera to scan QR (Quick Response) codes. These codes can help you access websites quickly without having to recall or type the web address.
Android devices cannot scan barcodes or QR codes just by using the camera. But you can download and install a barcode scanner app for free from the Google play store. You can launch the app and use it in the same way you would an iPhone camera to read QR codes.
Can You Use A Barcode Scanner With Excel?
Yes, you can use a barcode scanner with Excel. The scanner can read an existing barcode, decode it, and input the data in Excel straightaway. This means that as you scan the barcodes, the scanner can automatically help create a spreadsheet of your inventory in Excel. Also, barcode scanners can read barcodes that are created with Excel, so that you can input the data in your database.
Can A Barcode Scanner Scan QR Code?
QR codes are a type of barcode, so they are read by barcode scanners. However, since QR codes are 2D barcodes, you will need a 2D barcode scanner to read QR codes. You cannot read a QR code using a 1D standard barcode scanner.
2D scanners read the entire barcode image at once and analyze it by using a decoding algorithm. Aside from QR codes, 2D scanners can also scan standard horizontal barcodes.
Which Is Better: Barcode Or QR Code?
QR codes are better than standard barcodes because they can hold more information and they occupy less printing space. A QR code can hold a hundred times more information than a standard barcode can hold. And for the same data, standard barcodes take about ten times more printing space than QR codes.
QR codes are also barcodes but they are different from the more common standard barcodes. Standard barcodes are one-dimensional while QR codes are two-dimensional. Standard barcodes hold information horizontally while QR codes hold information both vertically and horizontally. However, most small businesses only need standard 1D barcodes for their operations.
✅ Video – WHAT ARE QR CODES AND BARCODES? | WHY QR CODES ARE BETTER THAN BARCODES?
This video explains “QR code vs. Barcodes” in detail. You will learn about their differences and the advantages QR codes have above barcodes. Do you know why QR codes will be a better alternative to barcodes for most applications? Watch this illustrative video to find out why.
Wireless Barcode Scanner
Wireless or cordless barcode scanners make use of Bluetooth technology or radio frequencies to transmit scanned information to a cradle base or docking station. The station will then transmit the information to your computer via its Serial or USB wire connection. The major advantage of using wireless barcode scanners is that you’ll have the freedom to carry the scanner from place to place.
You can take a wireless barcode reader to your inventory rather than haul each inventory to the scanner. This will save you a lot of time and even resources. Wireless barcode scanners are also suitable for those who want portability. If your business requires you to scan items while up and about, you should get a cordless barcode scanner. You can use cordless barcode readers both outdoors and indoors.
Wireless barcode scanners are not all created equal. Some wireless scanners work by scanning data wirelessly and storing it for later transmission to the central database when you connect it to the computer. If you want a wireless scanner that will not only scan but also transmit data to the central database wireless, you should buy a Bluetooth barcode scanner.
Barcode Generator
You might need a barcode generator if you want to start barcoding for your internal business processes, such as asset tracking. There are many free options that you can use, but these free options are not usually as good as the ones you pay for. Most free barcode generators will only generate a single barcode per time. So they can waste your time if you have many products to label with barcodes.
Barcode Inventory System Free
A barcode inventory system lets you link QR and barcodes to your inventory. All you need do is add the barcode and any detail you desire to add about the item for intuitive inventory tracking across several locations.
Without proper inventory management, you will consistently run out of order or cancel lots of orders as a result of inventory shortages. This will lead to loss of revenue and reduce your return on investment. A free inventory system will not only solve these problems, but you will also not have to spend a dime to use the system. However, paid inventory systems typically offer more functionality than the free options.
Barcode Scanner Software
To use most barcode scanners, you don’t need to install any special driver or software on your computer. Barcode scanners will transmit data to your computer just like how keyboards send keystrokes. But some barcode scanners need dedicated computer apps to read and decode barcode images. Whenever you are purchasing a barcode scanner, confirm its compatibility with your inventory management software.
Barcode Scanner Hardware
There are three types of barcode scanning hardware, and your scanner will be using one of them. Barcode scanners are usually identified by their hardware type. So when you hear something like “2D scanner” or “1D scanner”, it refers to the barcode scanner’s hardware type. Ultimately, the hardware type you use will depend on the type of code you’re scanning.
The three hardware options for barcode scanners are as follows:
Laser Scanners
Most scanners use this hardware option, so it is very popular. It makes use of laser technology to scan the barcode spaces’ reflectance. Laser scanners can only read 1D barcodes.
Linear Scanners
Linear scanners also only read 1D barcodes like laser scanners. But they don’t use laser technology. Instead of scanning space reflectance, they take the entire barcode picture and analyze the information in it.
2D Area Scanners
2D area imagers also read and analyze the entire barcode image at once. But unlike linear scanners that only read 1D (horizontal) barcodes, they can read barcodes in both vertical and horizontal directions. 2D scanners can scan 2D and stacked barcodes.
5 Factors to Consider When Choosing a Barcode Scanner for Small Businesses
You should weigh up the different options you have when shopping for a barcode scanner for your business. To do these, these are the features you should consider:
Accuracy
This should be your foremost concern when you’re buying a barcode scanner. Many people assume that all barcode scanners are accurate, so they overlook this check. But the truth is different models have varying degrees of accuracy. So, for the best model that will promote seamless operations, you should evaluate the accuracy of any barcode scanner before buying it.
Note, however, that many factors that are beyond a barcode scanner’s control can affect barcode reading. Sometimes, the barcode lines can be blurry or upside down. Torn barcode labels or those printed backward can also prove difficult to scan. You should also pay attention to these factors so that you wouldn’t wrongly attribute poor accuracy to the barcode scanner.
Speed
The speed of a barcode scanner is also an important factor to consider. A fast barcode scanner will allow you to read large batches of barcodes in a short time. This will help increase the speed of your business process and reduce long queues at your counter. Some high-performance barcode scanners are optimized for fast processing. These models support multi-threading, thus allowing you to read barcodes with optimum speed.
Flexibility
Barcodes are not all the same. Modern barcodes include different code types, including one-dimensional (1D) and two-dimensional (2D) codes. 1D codes can only be read horizontally but you can read 2D both vertically and horizontally. QR codes are an example of 2D codes. If you will be scanning 2D codes, you should get a flexible barcode scanner that can scan both vertically and horizontally.
Also, different sources use different input page formats. Some barcode scanners can search for all code types on a full page while some can only search a specified field on the page. While shopping for a barcode scanner, you should ask questions along these lines and make sure to get a scanner that is suitable for your source’s page format.
Easy Handling and Operation
You should not buy a barcode scanner that’s difficult to handle or operate. Your transactions will be smooth only to the degree that your barcode scanner is easy to handle and operate. So firstly, make sure the barcode scanner is lightweight, especially if it’s a handheld device. Cashier attendants will likely hold the scanner all day long, so it should not be heavy.
Aside from the scanner’s weight, its overall body design is also important. A good barcode scanner should feel comfortable in the hand when you grip it. As such, you should go for barcode scanners with a slim and comfortable handle.
What’s more, the easy operation of scanners requires that they can connect or pair easily with your existing station. So check the connectivity options before buying a barcode scanner. Since small businesses operate with fewer stations, wireless scanners may be the best option. But USB and PS/2 barcode scanners are also good.
POS Compatibility
It’s almost as if this factor need not be mentioned because most people should be aware of it. But then, many people still forget to check POS compatibility before buying a barcode scanner. Some barcode scanners have flexible software compatibility, so they can work with different POS software. But some are specifically designed for just one software type. That’s why you should check the features of the barcode reader you are buying and ensure that it’s compatible with your POS stations.
FAQs
Is RFID Better Than Barcodes?
RFID technology has many advantages above barcodes but they are suitable for different purposes. For starters, barcodes need line-of-sight scanning to transmit the information they contain. RFID tags, on the other hand, can be read so long as the scanner is within the field of the RFID’s radio waves. The scanner does not have to be in front of the label.
What’s more, RFID can hold far more details and information than barcodes. Barcodes can only identify manufacturer details and product names. But RFID will identify each item and can differentiate items by color, batch number, and expiry date.
What is The Best Thermal Transfer Printer for Barcodes?
If you want the best thermal transfer printer for barcodes, you should look for two major qualities – Efficient operation and fast printing. The best printer for the job is one that will produce high-quality, sharp, and durable barcodes. More so, the printer will produce the barcode labels at a quick speed.
✅ Brother QL-820NWB printer is our choice. This printer is fast and makes quality barcode labels. They are reliable and will give you clear and durable labels. You can read our post on the top 5 best thermal transfer printers for labels, barcodes, and receipts. The post contains a detailed review and buying guide for thermal transfer printers.
What is The Best Direct Thermal Printer for Barcodes?
Your barcode application and printing needs will determine the best direct thermal printer for you but one that’s fast and efficient will satisfy most applications. The best printer will also be durable and offer easy maintenance. It should also be pocket-friendly.
✅ Dymo LabelWriter 450 is our choice. This cost-effective direct thermal printer will produce clear and crisp barcodes at record print speed. You can also read our post on the top 10 best direct thermal printers for labels, barcodes, and receipts. We also included a detailed guide and well-researched reviews.
What Is The Difference Between Direct Thermal And Thermal Transfer?
Direct thermal technology uses heat-sensitive media only while thermal transfer uses thermal ribbons and thermal transfer printers. Direct thermal and thermal transfer printers are two different thermal printing technologies that use different supplies.
The two thermal technologies also have varying degrees of color limitations and durability. Generally, direct thermal printers can only print one color but thermal transfer printers can print various colors depending on the ribbon color you’re using. Thermal transfer printers make more durable labels and can use a wider variety of media.
Do Thermal Printed Labels Fade?
Labels printed with thermal printers will end up fading even if they last for many years. However, most of these labels don’t last longer than 6 months before they fade away. Many factors contribute to how quickly a thermal label will fade. These include the type of thermal technology you use, ribbon type, storage and handling conditions, and so on.
If you take good care of a thermal label store it properly and handle it well it should last for at least 10 years. You should read our post “Do Thermal Printed Labels Fade?”, you will learn about the different reasons why labels fade, how to prevent quick fading, and how to restore faded thermal labels.
End
Barcode scanners are simple tools that can improve the accuracy of inventory management for your small business. Adding a good barcode scanner to your inventory management will help with taking and organizing your stock. It will also make your business processing faster and reduce long queues at your payment counter.
There are various products available and you can choose any model of your choice. But reviewing the various conditions and making a decision can sometimes be confusing. That’s we have reviewed the different models and listed out the top 10 products on the market for you. We hope that you find the top 10 list and all the other information in this post helpful.
