1D vs 2D Barcode Scanner
What is 1D barcode scanner?
1D scanner only reads linear or one-dimensional (1D) barcodes. Its scan distance can be greater than 60cm. 1D scanners are commonly used in retail stores and supermarkets.
What is 2D barcode scanner?
2D scanner reads both 1D and 2D barcodes. 2D scanners are getting popular as QR codes are on the rise nowadays. It can also read damaged or poorly printed barcodes. which is ideal for some harsh environments, such as factories, kitchens.
1D VS 2D scanning
| Feature | 1D | 2D |
| Reads 1D barcodes | ✔ | ✔ |
| Reads 2D barcodes | ✖ | ✔ |
| Reads damaged or poorly printed barcodes | ✖ | ✔ |
| Decodes barcodes from any angle (omni-directional) | ✖ | ✔ |
| Processes barcodes faster | ✖ | ✔ |
| Improves accuracy | ✖ | ✔ |
| Captures digital images of documents and signatures | ✖ | ✔ |
| Scans codes on reflective surfaces | ✖ | ✔ |
| Encodes significant amounts of data | ✖ | ✔ |
Which is best for you?
2D scanners are replacing 1D scanners in the market, as their capacity and performance are suitable for most of the environments. However, 1D scanners are a lot cheaper than 2D scanners, which you should totally take into account.
Before purchasing a scanner, you should ask yourself some questions. Knowing how you'll be using the scanner will help you decide which scanner you should get.
- Where will the scanner be used? (Temperature, humidity, dust, etc)
- How often will it be used?
- What kind of barcodes will it be reading? (1D, 2D)
- How will the scanner be used? (Handheld, desktop, or wall-mount)
- Can you stay connected to a PC? (Wired, Bluetooth, etc)
Our Range of Barcode Scanners
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| B Scan 1D (Handheld) | B Scan 2D (Desktop) |