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When it comes to warehouse automation and inventory accuracy, barcode scanners remain essential tools. In 2025, choosing between a 1D vs 2D barcode scanner can significantly impact operational efficiency, data capture capabilities, and integration with your systems. This guide breaks down the differences between 1D and 2D barcode scanners to help you make an informed decision.
Segment/Technology | Data/Description |
|---|---|
Handheld/Portable Barcode Scanners | |
2D Barcode Reader Market Size 2024 | USD 8.5 billion |
2D Barcode Reader Market Growth | 9.2% CAGR (2024-2034) |
Key Users | Amazon, Alibaba, Walmart, FedEx, UPS, DHL |
Key Takeaways
2D barcode scanners scan quickly. They read more data. They work from any angle. This makes them the best for most businesses in 2025.
1D barcode scanners are good for simple jobs. They help with price checks and inventory tracking. They are best when you care about cost and speed.
2D scanners read damaged or small barcodes better. They also help with things like mobile payments and detailed tracking.
Upgrading to 2D scanners costs more at first. But it saves time and cuts down on mistakes. This helps your business grow and get ready for the future.
EFFON’s wearable 2D barcode scanners make work faster and more accurate. They let you keep your hands free for busy tasks.
Common Pain Points in Barcode Scanning
Warehouse and logistics teams face several challenges when selecting barcode scanning solutions:
Inefficient scanning on damaged or poorly printed barcodes
Difficulty reading barcodes from mobile or reflective screens
Limited data encoded in traditional 1D barcodes
Compatibility issues with modern software and automation tools
Choosing the wrong type of scanner can lead to slowdowns, misreads, and bottlenecks at critical points like packing stations, receiving docks, and picking areas.
Which Scanner Is Right for You?
Best for Most Businesses
If you want a quick answer about 1d vs 2d barcode scanners, most businesses in 2025 should pick 2D barcode scanners. They give you more options and scan faster. You can use them to read both 1D and 2D codes. 2D scanners work in many places like stores, shipping, and factories. They scan barcodes from any direction. They can even read codes that are damaged or not printed well. You can use them for things like mobile payments and keeping track of inventory. They also help with automating tasks. With a 2D scanner, your business will be ready for new technology and future needs.
Tip: If you want your business to be ready for the future, a 2D scanner is a good choice.
When to Choose 1D or 2D
You might still wonder about the 1d vs 2d barcode scanner choice for certain jobs. Here are some things to think about:
Pick a 1D barcode scanner if:
You only need to scan traditional barcodes (e.g., SKUs, serial numbers)
Budget constraints are a top priority
You operate in environments with clear, consistent label quality
You often encounter shipping labels with multiple 1D barcodes, and need to scan only one specific code — 1D laser scanners are ideal here because their narrow, linear beam allows precise aiming without accidentally reading adjacent barcodes. In contrast, 2D imagers emit a wide scanning area, increasing the risk of misreads when multiple barcodes are present.
Pick a 2D barcode scanner if:
You need to scan barcodes from any direction or on screens and other surfaces.
You want to get more data, like pictures or signatures.
You work in factories, hospitals, or big warehouses where being correct matters.
You need to scan barcodes that are damaged, hard to read, or very small.
You want one scanner that reads both 1D and 2D codes.
The 1d vs 2d barcode scanner decision depends on how you work and what data you need. For most businesses today, 2D scanners give the best mix of speed, accuracy, and being ready for the future.
1D vs 2D Barcodes
How 1D Barcode Scanner Works
When you look at 1d barcodes, you see black bars and white spaces. These bars and spaces hold information in a simple line. You can find 1d barcodes on store products, library books, and shipping labels. The barcode uses different bar and space widths to store data. Each pattern stands for a number or a letter.
A 1d barcode scanner uses a laser or LED light to read the code. The light shines on the barcode. The scanner catches the light that bounces back. It changes the light and dark patterns into digital signals. These signals become numbers or letters for your computer. The table below shows how each part works:
Component | Role in Scanning and Data Retrieval Process |
|---|---|
Light Source | Shines laser or LED light on the barcode. |
Optical Sensor | Catches the light that bounces off and makes electrical signals. |
Decoder | Changes the signals into binary data. |
Microprocessor | Handles decoding and sends the data to your system. |
Interface | Connects the scanner to your computer or POS system. |
Most 1d barcodes can hold up to 85 characters. They are best for simple jobs like checking prices or tracking inventory. You see 1d barcodes a lot in stores and shipping because they are easy to print and scan.
Note: 1d barcodes must be scanned from left to right. They do not fix errors well, so damage can make them hard to read.
How 2D Barcode Scanner Works
2d barcodes look different from 1d barcodes. They can be squares, dots, or even hexagons. These codes store information across and down, not just in a line. 2d barcodes can hold thousands of characters. They can store text, numbers, web links, and even pictures.
You scan 2d barcodes with a camera scanner or a smartphone. The scanner takes a picture of the whole code. It looks at the pattern of dots or squares to find the data. 2d barcodes use special finder patterns to help the scanner find and read the code. They also have a quiet zone around the edge to help the scanner see the code better.
Here is how 2d barcodes work step by step:
The scanner takes a picture of the 2d barcode.
Light bounces off the barcode, and the sensor sees the pattern.
The scanner looks at the grid of dots or squares.
The scanner decodes the data, like text or links.
The decoded data goes to your system to use.
2d barcodes have error correction built in. This means you can still scan them if part of the code is damaged. You find 2d barcodes in hospitals, factories, and on tickets or ID cards. They are good for tracking, storing more data, and mobile payments.
Feature | 1D Barcode | 2D Barcode |
|---|---|---|
Data Storage | Thousands of characters | |
Data Encoding | Numbers, some letters | Letters, numbers, pictures, web links |
Structure | Lines side by side | Squares, dots, or hexagons in a grid |
Scanning Direction | Left to right | Any direction |
Error Correction | Not much | Yes |
When you compare 1d and 2d barcodes, you see that 2d barcodes can hold more data, fix errors better, and scan from any direction. Both types help you track and manage items. But 2d barcodes give you more choices for the future. Both 1d and 2d barcodes are used for tracking, inventory, and fast data entry.
1D vs 2D Barcode Scanner
Scanning Technology
There are big differences in how these scanners work. 1d barcode scanners use lasers to read barcodes. The scanner shines a thin light beam on the barcode. You have to line up the scanner with the barcode. This works well for simple barcodes in stores or for counting items. Some 1d barcode scanners use linear imagers. These can read faded or damaged 1d barcodes from more angles. But they still only read barcodes in lines.
2d barcode scanners use cameras or image sensors. The scanner takes a picture of the whole barcode, not just a line. You do not need to line up the scanner perfectly. You can scan from any angle, even from a phone screen or a curved surface. This makes 2d barcode scanners more flexible. They can read both 1d and 2d barcodes, like QR codes and Data Matrix. You get faster scans and better accuracy, even if the barcode is damaged or printed badly.
1D Laser Scanners | 1D Linear Imagers | 2D Barcode Scanners | |
|---|---|---|---|
Barcode Types Supported | Only 1D (UPC, EAN) | 1D including damaged or faded codes | Both 1D & 2D (QR, Data Matrix, PDF417, etc.) |
Scan Capabilities | Requires precise alignment, linear scan | Reads 1D barcodes faster, various angles | Omnidirectional scanning of 1D and 2D barcodes |
Use Cases | Retail checkout, basic barcode inventory system | Warehousing, logistics, basic asset tracking | Healthcare, shipping, mobile payments, kiosks |
Cost | Most affordable | Moderate | Higher upfront cost but more versatile |
Mobility Options | Mostly wired handheld | Wired or cordless | Wired, cordless, and mobile computer options |
EFFON makes wearable barcode scanners that use both laser and camera scanning. You can use them with iOS, Android, or Windows devices. EFFON’s scanners are tough and can handle drops and water. This means you can scan in many places without worry.
Data Capacity
There is a big difference in how much data these barcodes can hold. 1d barcodes keep data in one line. The amount of data depends on how long the barcode is. Most 1d barcodes hold up to 85 characters. You can use them for numbers, letters, or simple codes. If you need more data, the barcode gets longer and harder to scan.
2d barcodes use a grid or matrix pattern. They can hold much more data in a small space. For example, a QR code or Data Matrix can hold up to 2,000 characters. You can store numbers, letters, web links, or even images. You can fit lots of data into a barcode as small as 24mm by 24mm. This makes 2d barcodes great for things like medical records, shipping labels, or parts in factories.
Feature | 1D Barcodes | 2D Barcodes |
|---|---|---|
Data Encoding | Linear (width modulation) | Matrix (horizontal & vertical) |
Character Set Support | Limited ASCII (numbers, letters) | Unicode, binary data, images |
Data Capacity | Limited by barcode length and size | Up to 2,000 characters |
Physical Size | Larger size needed for more data | Can store hundreds of characters in small areas (e.g., 24mm x 24mm DataMatrix) |
2d barcode scanners help you handle more data and keep labels small. This saves space and makes scanning faster. EFFON’s wearable barcode scanners let you collect all this data quickly. This helps you work better and make fewer mistakes.
Error Correction
You should think about error correction when picking a barcode type. 1d barcodes use check digits to find mistakes. These check digits help you spot errors, like a wrong number. But 1d barcodes cannot fix errors. If the barcode is damaged, the scanner might not read it.
2d barcodes use special error correction codes. These codes add extra data to the barcode. If part of the barcode is damaged or dirty, the scanner can still read it. For example, QR codes can recover up to 30% of lost data. This makes 2d barcodes much more reliable in tough places, like warehouses or factories.
1d barcodes use check digits to find mistakes, not fix them.
2d barcodes use error correction codes to fix errors and recover lost data.
QR codes and Data Matrix barcodes can be read even if up to 30% is damaged.
2d barcodes are better for accuracy and reliability in hard conditions.
EFFON’s wearable barcode scanners use these error correction features. You can trust them to scan well, even with damaged or bad barcodes. This keeps your work going and helps you avoid mistakes.
Tip: For the best accuracy and reliability, pick a 2d barcode scanner with strong error correction. EFFON’s wearable barcode scanners give your business this advantage.
Cost Comparison
Upfront Investment
When you shop for barcode scanners, price is easy to see. 1D barcode scanners usually have a lower price than 2D barcode scanners. You can buy basic 1D models for less money. These scanners use simple parts, so they do not cost much at first. Many small stores pick 1D scanners to save money.
2D barcode scanners cost more when you buy them. These scanners use cameras and special sensors. You pay extra for things like scanning from screens or any angle. If you want a scanner for both 1D and 2D barcodes, you need to spend more. The higher price gives you more choices and better results.
Tip: If you want your business ready for the future, buying a 2D scanner now can stop you from needing new equipment later.
Long-Term Value
You should think about more than just the first price. Costs for fixing and keeping scanners working add up over time. 1D barcode scanners have simple parts. They need less cleaning and fewer repairs. You spend less to keep them working.
2D barcode scanners have more features and moving parts. They need new batteries and more repairs. The table below shows how costs compare over five years:
Scanner Type | Maintenance Cost Over 5 Years | Annual Operating Cost | Typical Repair Cost Range | Notes on Complexity and Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
1D Barcode Scanners (Laser & CCD) | $50 – $300 (cleaning, occasional repairs) | $20 – $60 | $50 – $200 | Lower complexity, minimal cleaning, fewer parts to fail |
2D Barcode Scanners (Imaging) | $200 – $500 (cleaning, battery replacements, repairs) | $50 – $150 | $100 – $300 | Higher complexity, frequent battery replacements, advanced features |
You can see that 1D scanners are cheaper to keep working. 2D scanners cost more because they do more things. But 2D scanners help you work faster and handle more data. Over time, these extra features can help your business grow and stay ahead.
Remember: The best scanner saves you money by making work easier and faster. Pick the one that fits what your business needs now and later.
Applications And Use Cases
Retail and Inventory
You find 1d barcode scanners in most stores. They help cashiers check out items fast by reading UPC and EAN barcodes. These scanners help you keep track of products right away. You can use them for checking prices, counting stock, and handling returns. In storage rooms, 1d barcodes like Code 39 and Code 128 help with getting, picking, packing, and shipping items. Using a barcode system gives you quick updates and fewer errors. Many stores pick 1d scanners because they are easy to use and save money for daily work.
Scan labels at checkout to help customers quickly
Track stock as you get and send out products
Use barcodes to handle returns and restocking
Watch shipments and deliveries with 1d barcodes
Tip: 1d barcode scanners help your store run smoothly and stay correct.
Logistics and Warehousing
In warehouses, you need to move things fast and without mistakes. 2d barcode scanners help by reading codes from any side and holding more data. You can follow products, manage stock, and make fewer mistakes. 2d barcodes let you scan details like batch numbers, supplier names, and when things were made. These scanners work well with machines and update your warehouse management software right away. You can use strong handheld scanners for picking, packing, and shipping. They also help you check deliveries and track packages until they reach the customer.
Make picking and sorting faster with 2d barcode scanners
Store lots of product info in 2d barcodes for better tracking
Send scanned data right away to warehouse management software
Check package delivery and help customers track orders
Note: 2d barcodes help warehouses work faster and make fewer mistakes.
Manufacturing
In factories, you have to track parts and check quality. 2d barcode scanners help you handle lots of data. You can use them to read many barcode types, like QR codes and Data Matrix. These scanners can hold thousands of characters, so you can add product details, batch numbers, and when things expire. You can scan from any side, even if the barcode is dirty or broken. This helps stop mistakes and makes the assembly line faster. 2d barcodes help you trace products, check quality, and stop fake goods. Tough scanners work well in hard factory places.
Track parts and finished products with 2d barcodes
Scan many details at once for faster work
Make it easier to trace and recall products with detailed barcodes
Use tough scanners that can handle drops, dust, and water
Callout: 2d barcode scanners help your factory stay fast and dependable.
EFFON Solutions
Wearable Barcode Scanners
EFFON’s wearable barcode scanners help your team work faster and make fewer mistakes. You wear these scanners on your finger or hand. This lets you scan things while your hands stay free. EFFON has ring and glove models. Both are made for hard jobs in warehouses and factories. The EF02 ring scanner and GS02 glove scanner use advanced 2D Honeywell engines. They scan barcodes quickly and correctly, even if it is dusty or wet. Both scanners have Bluetooth 5.0, so you can connect from far away. They work with Android, iOS, and Windows. You do not need special software to use them.
Here is a table that shows how EFFON’s wearable barcode scanners compare to others:
Feature | EFFON EF02 (Ring Wearable) | EFFON GS02 (Glove Wearable) | Other Brands (Examples) |
|---|---|---|---|
Scan Engine | Advanced 2D Honeywell | Advanced 2D Honeywell | 1D/2D CMOS or 2D engines |
Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.0, long-range | Bluetooth 5.0, long-range | Bluetooth Class 1 or BLE |
Battery Life | 10 hours | Full shift | 12-18 hours (varies) |
Waterproof Rating | IP65 | IP65 | Often lower or unspecified |
Form Factor | Ring wearable | Glove wearable | Mostly handheld |
Hands-Free Scanning | Yes | Yes | Mostly handheld |
Customization Options | OEM/ODM, glove sizes, branding | OEM/ODM, glove sizes, branding | Limited customization |
OS Compatibility | Android, iOS, Windows | Android, iOS, Windows | Often requires special software |
EFFON’s barcode scanners are strong, simple to use, and fit many jobs. You can pick the size, color, and features you want. EFFON lets you order a few or many, so you get what you need.
Industry Applications
When you use EFFON’s wearable barcode scanners, your business gets better. Many companies say their work is faster and they make fewer mistakes. For example, retail and online stores pick orders 30% faster. Factory teams finish building things 25% quicker. Healthcare workers make 40% fewer mistakes with medicine. Logistics teams load and unload trucks 35% faster. Store managers count inventory in half the time.
EFFON’s barcode scanners meet high quality rules. They have CE and FCC certificates. They follow ISO/IEC barcode rules. EFFON’s factory passes checks from SGS, TÜV, and Intertek. You get products that work well in Europe, North America, and other places.
You can also get EFFON’s custom barcode scanners. You can choose your own logo, color, or software features. EFFON’s team helps you make changes fast and gives you support. This makes it easy to get the barcode scanner that fits your needs.
Tip: EFFON’s worldwide service and strong quality mean you can trust their barcode scanners for any job.
Transitioning to 2D
Hardware Upgrades
When you switch from 1D to 2D barcode scanning, you need new hardware. Most companies start by getting better barcode printers. You need high-resolution inkjet printers to make clear 2D codes like QR codes or Data Matrix codes. These printers must print fast and handle changing data. Sometimes, you also need new labeling machines. These machines put 2D barcodes, NFC labels, or RFID tags on products in the right spot.
Your point-of-sale (POS) systems might need upgrades, too. Many old systems cannot read or use 2D barcodes. You may need to get new scanners or update the software so they can read 2D data. Packaging lines often need changes to fit new barcode shapes and sizes. Manufacturers must check print quality during real production to stop codes from being unreadable.
Tip: Always check if your scanners and software work with 2D codes before you change everything.
You might have some problems when you upgrade:
Buying new printers and scanners
Needing special inks or coatings for some packages
Cleaning and adjusting printers often to keep prints clear
Testing how dark and where the barcode is to stop scan mistakes
Teaching workers how to use the new tools
Workflow Changes
Switching to 2D barcode scanning changes your daily work. With 2D scanners, you can scan more than one barcode at a time. You do not have to cover up other barcodes to scan one. This makes unloading and labeling much quicker. You can scan and label pallets or boxes as soon as they come in, not after the whole truck is ready.
You can use mobile computers with printers to track items right away. This makes dock-to-stock times shorter and lets you handle more shipments at once. You also get more product details, which helps you track items and manage inventory better.
The GS1 Sunrise 2027 plan means you must think about your labeling again. You need to pick what info goes in each barcode and if you want static or changing labels. Automated inspection systems help you check barcode quality and follow new rules.
Some common workflow problems are:
Adding new barcode data to your ERP or inventory systems
Teaching workers to use new scanners and follow new steps
Working with suppliers and partners so everyone uses the same rules
Paying more at first for new hardware and software
Note: Moving to 2D barcodes makes your work faster, easier, and more correct. You can track products better and give customers more details.
Comparison Table
When you pick between 1d and 2d barcode scanners, it helps to see the facts together. The table below lets you compare the main features. You can use this chart to help choose the best scanner for your business.
Feature | 1d Barcode Scanner | 2d Barcode Scanner |
|---|---|---|
Types of Codes | 1d barcodes only | 1d and 2d barcodes |
Data Capacity | Up to 85 characters | Up to 2,000+ characters |
Scanning Direction | Must scan in a straight line | Scans from any angle |
Error Correction | Basic (check digit) | Advanced (recovers lost data) |
Speed | Fast for simple barcodes | Fast for all barcode types |
Label Size | Needs longer labels for more data | Stores more data in small space |
Device Cost | Lower upfront cost | Higher upfront cost |
Use Cases | Retail, inventory, shipping | Warehousing, healthcare, manufacturing, mobile payments |
Compatibility | Works with most POS systems | Works with modern POS and mobile devices |
Future-Proof | Limited | Ready for new barcode trends |
Tip: If you want to scan both 1d and 2d barcodes, a 2d barcode scanner gives you more choices and helps you get ready for the future.
You can see that 1d barcode scanners are good for easy jobs. They work when you only need to scan simple barcodes. If you need to scan more data or scan from any side, you should get a 2d barcode scanner. Many companies now use 2d barcode scanners because they scan more kinds of barcodes and work faster in busy places.
1d barcode scanners are best for simple and cheap jobs.
2d barcode scanners let you scan more data and work in more places.
You can use 2d barcode scanners for both 1d and 2d barcodes, so you only need one device.
Note: Always think about what kind of barcode you use most and how much data you need to scan. This will help you pick the right scanner.
There are lots of ways to scan barcodes in 2025. Experts think 2D barcode scanners help you do more things. They also get your business ready for new tech like QR codes and phone scanning. Small businesses might want easy tools that work on phones. Big companies often need strong tools that can grow with them.
Tip: Make a list of what you want before picking a scanner. Try out different scanners to see which one works best. Check if the scanner fits how you do your work. EFFON’s wearable barcode scanners help you finish jobs faster and better. Always pick a scanner that fits what you need now and what you might need later.
FAQ
What is the main difference between 1D and 2D barcode scanners?
You use 1D scanners for simple barcodes with lines. You use 2D scanners for codes with squares or dots. 2D scanners read more data and scan from any angle.
Can a 2D barcode scanner read 1D barcodes?
Yes, you can use a 2D barcode scanner to read both 1D and 2D barcodes. This makes your work easier and gives you more options.
Why should I choose a wearable barcode scanner?
You keep your hands free with a wearable scanner. You work faster and safer. Wearable scanners help you pick, pack, and move items without stopping to grab a device.
Tip: Wearable scanners boost speed and reduce mistakes in busy jobs.
How do I know if my business needs to upgrade to 2D barcode scanners?
You should upgrade if you need to scan more data, read codes from screens, or handle damaged barcodes. If you want to future-proof your business, 2D scanners are the smart choice.
