Shopify blog
Barcode scanners allow small businesses to ring up orders at checkout, update inventory levels, and verify prices.
To help you choose the best barcode scanner for your store, more than 50 hours were spent researching dozens of scanners, from the bottom (less than $100) to the top (more than $300) of the budget scale.
In this guide you’ll learn about six barcode scanners, their features, point of sale (POS) compatibility, and pros and cons to consider as you narrow down your shortlist.
What is a barcode scanner?
A barcode scanner is a type of point-of-sale (POS) hardware that reads encoded data from a printed or digital label and transmits it to a POS or inventory system for identification and tracking.
Barcode scanners support linear (1D) codes, or both 1D and 2D formats:
- 1D barcodes encode data, like SKU numbers or product prices, in a series of vertical lines and spaces.
- 2D barcodes, such as QR codes, store data horizontally and vertically so they’re able to hold more information. This includes batch numbers, expiration dates, and URLs.
Laser scanners generally only read 1D barcodes, while imager-based scanners capture a digital image, allowing them to read both 1D and 2D codes.
Imagers are the more flexible choice for modern retail, especially as information standards organization GS1 encourages a global transition to 2D barcodes by the end of 2027. Retailers using older laser technology will likely need to upgrade to imagers to meet this deadline.
Best barcode readers
Barcode scanners read product labels, but they also help retailers ring up orders at checkout, support mobile selling, and update inventory counts.
To determine how well a scanner fits your store’s day-to-day needs, you should consider key features like 2D scanning, Bluetooth connectivity, and POS compatibility.
Here are scanners to consider:
| Barcode scanner | Barcode type | Connectivity | Shopify POS compatible? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shopify POS and your device camera | 1D/2D | Mobile app | Yes |
| Zebra DS2208 USB | 1D/2D | USB | Yes |
| Socket Mobile S720 | 1D/2D | Bluetooth | Yes |
| NADAMOO barcode scanner | 1D | Wireless, wired, USB dongle | Not officially listed |
| Socket Mobile DuraScan D720 | 1D/2D | Bluetooth | Yes |
| Orca Scan | 1D/2D | Mobile app | No |
Shopify POS and your device camera
Most native camera apps on smartphones are able to scan barcodes and QR codes, but they don’t have all the functionality that a dedicated scanner app offers.
Shopify POS fills that gap. Provide the app with access to your device’s camera to scan product, receipt, or gift card barcodes at checkout. Information scanned using this method automatically updates in Shopify POS, which means that the data is unified across every sales channel with no extra integrations required.
Why it stands out
When you open Shopify POS on your smartphone, your camera transforms into a barcode scanner, letting you scan items and see their details on the floor.
From the Shopify POS app app, you can also:
- Build customer carts
- Track inventory levels
- Retrieve customer data
- Generate POS reports
- Process payments—even without a card reader using Tap to Pay
Features
- Built-in device camera scans 1D and 2D barcodes instead of requiring a separate scanner
- Scanned product barcodes can be used to add products to the cart in Shopify POS
- Available on iOS and Android devices
Pros
- No separate barcode scanner required for basic scanning
- Same camera-based scanning can support receipts, gift cards, and products
- Supports both 1D and 2D barcodes
Cons
- Staff needs to grant Shopify POS camera access before using it
- Gift card scanning is limited to 2D codes
Price: Shopify POS Lite is included with Shopify plans; paid plans start at $5 per month.
Zebra DS2208 USB barcode scanner
The Zebra DS2208 USB scanner is a wired barcode scanner with handheld and hands-free options. It’s ergonomic, small, and lightweight. Plus, it works quickly and accurately to scan 1D and 2D barcodes at checkout.
Why it stands out
The Zebra DS2208 barcode scanner uses PRZM’s patented intelligence software, which uses imaging technology to capture and decipher inferior-quality data in any condition.
The device’s point-and-shoot omnidirectional scanning feature and AI-powered imaging technology eliminate the need to line up the imager and barcode.
And as the PRZM software constantly evolves, you can capture 1D, 2D, and mobile barcodes, optical character recognition (OCR), Digimarcs, images, documents, signatures, and anything else that may come along in the future.
Features
- Direct decode indicator
- Mini USB cable
- Hands-free scanning with presentation stand
- Integrates with Shopify POS
Pros
- Compatible with a range of barcode types
- Ergonomic and lightweight balanced design
- Switches between handheld and hands-free scanning
Cons
- No wireless functionality
- No Bluetooth pairing
Price: $199.
Socket Mobile S720
For retailers that want a flexible cordless scanner for everyday selling, the Socket Mobile S720 scanner offers a lightweight, accurate way to scan barcodes. It features a bright LED aimer to scan barcodes on Android tablets and iPads.
It can scan 1D and 2D barcodes on paper and screen, including products, digital IDs, and mobile wallet credentials.
Why it stands out
The SocketScan S720 is compact and has a long-range Bluetooth connection of up to 33 feet. It can scan 1D, 2D, QR, and data matrix barcodes.
The barcode scanner also has an ergonomic structure for better grip. The exterior is made with antimicrobial material to protect against potentially harmful bacteria, and it offers up to 16 hours standby time, so you can use it over extended periods.
Features
- Charging dock
- Antimicrobial material
- Omnidirectional scans
- Integrates with Shopify POS
Pros
- Lightweight
- Ergonomic design
- Intuitive feedback features
- Long-lasting battery life
Cons
- More expensive than budget scanner options
- Requires Bluetooth pairing and charging management
Price: $289 with charging dock.
NADAMOO barcode scanner
The NADAMOO barcode scanner is a plug-and-play POS device that supports wireless and wired connection, so you can connect it to a computer via a USB dongle or cable.
It’s compact, lightweight, and works in virtually every industry, whether you need a wireless scanner for your warehouse or a stationary scanner for your retail store, inventory, or POS system.
Why it stands out
The NADAMOO barcode scanner is cheaper than other options, and has a battery that lasts about 30 working days (assuming you’re scanning 2,000 barcodes daily) when fully charged.
You can use the scanner’s pairing modes to transmit barcodes from one scanner (one-to-one) or multiple scanners (more-to-one) to a single USB receiver. The latter is ideal in busy environments with medium to high-volume inventory, where several people are scanning items at the same time.
The scanner also offers two working modes: upload and storage. Upload mode sends the barcode contents immediately. Storage mode lets you scan and store up to 100,000 barcodes in offline storage mode when away from the receiver, and then update the data to your computer when you’re back online.
Features
- Instant upload and storage working modes
- Internal storage for up to 100,000 barcodes
- Mini USB receiver
Pros
- Lightweight, compact design
- Long-range wireless transmission up to 100 meters in 2.4GHz mode
- Long battery life
- Rated 4.4 out of 5 stars on Amazon
Cons
- No native 2D barcode support
- Android keyboard input may require a separate app setup for on-device text entry
Price: $34.99.
Socket Mobile DuraScan D720
The Socket Mobile DuraScan D720 device uses Bluetooth to scan barcodes. Retailers can use it for inventory management, order entry, asset tracking, and field service.
Why it stands out
The DuraScan D720 supports both 1D and 2D barcodes, scans printed and on-screen codes, and is compatible with Shopify POS. You can also use it on your iOS or Android device.
Socket’s DuraScan comes as part of a bundle. Opt for a charging dock to keep the POS hardware usable while charging, or go for hands-free charging with a compatible charging cradle.
This barcode scanner also has audible feedback to let you know when a barcode has been successfully read, as well as LED light indicators to show its battery charging status.
Features
- 1D and 2D barcode scanning
- Omnidirectional scanning for printed and on-screen barcodes
- Bluetooth connectivity
- Ergonomic design for all-day use
- Compatible with iOS, Android, and Windows 10
Pros
- Scans both paper and screen barcodes
- Integrates with Shopify POS
- One-year warranty included
Cons
- More expensive than other options
Price: From $335.
Orca Scan
Orca Scan is an inventory management tool with a barcode scanning app. It works on iOS and Android, with web access on Mac, Windows, and Linux. It also comes with a barcode label designer to create product codes, as well as custom workflows to to collect data.
Why it stands out
Orca Scan offers custom workflows to manage data you’re scanning through a barcode. It uses “if this, then that” logic to trigger changes based on updates. You can use this to configure low stock notifications, split barcode data into different fields, and receive emails when an item is damaged.
Orca Scan also offers asset maps to track inventory across multiple locations. This feature uses GPS to assign a location to each barcode.
Features
- Barcode label designer
- Team collaboration tools
- Multilocation support
- Detailed history logs
- Automatic backups
Pros
- Cloud access
- Compatible with Mac, Windows, Linux, Android, and iOS
- Export and integration options, including Excel, Google Sheets, Zapier, Make, Power BI, Tableau, and API tools
Cons
- Free plan has limited functionality
- No official Shopify integration
Price: Free plan available; paid plans start at $20 per month.
Buy the best barcode reader for your store
To choose the best barcode scanner for your retail store, you’ll want to analyze your business workflow. Consider relevant factors like scan speed, accuracy, support for multiple barcode symbologies, integration with your existing systems and software, and the overall benefit to your business. Then, go back to our list and find the scanner or app that best fits the bill.
Best barcode scanner FAQ
Can retail barcode scanners integrate with existing POS systems?
Many retail barcode scanners work with POS systems, including Shopify POS. Shopify POS supports the Zebra DS2208 barcode scanner, Socket Mobile S720 and D720, and most HID barcode scanners. You can also use your device’s camera to scan products, receipts, and gift cards in the Shopify POS mobile app.
What features are needed in a barcode scanner to enhance the checkout process?
The features you prioritize will depend on your business, but you can generally look for:
- Simple, user-friendly interface
- Integrated keyboard
- Multiple connectivity options
- Barcode scanning range
- Support for multiple barcode symbologies
- Fast scan speed
- High read rates
- Compatibility with existing software
- Ergonomic design
- Long battery life and reliable charging options
Can barcode scanners support mobile payment methods and loyalty programs in retail?
Yes, but the details depend on the scanner and the POS setup. A 2D barcode scanner can read QR codes, which some payment systems use for scan-to-pay transactions, while 1D or 2D scanners can also scan loyalty barcodes from physical cards or customer phones. Shopify POS supports 1D and 2D scanners.
Can barcode scanners be used for both in-store and online inventory management?
Retailers can connect barcode scanners to their inventory management software to enter barcodes. When this inventory data is unified in Shopify, you can use barcode scanners to update inventory levels across your ecommerce website and retail stores.
What's the difference between a barcode scanner and a barcode reader?
These terms are often used interchangeably to describe a device that captures and decodes barcode data. “Scanner” is the more common term for the hardware itself, while “reader” can sometimes refer more broadly to the technology or function.
