In many cases, owners of small businesses have been able to better organize their businesses’ inventory without too much hassle using a barcode system. A barcode system is a computer application that can generate a barcode. In addition, it can be used to identify items with a barcode reader. The barcode reader may be a smartphone or tablet with a camera.
Automation is good when it comes to business procedures because it lets you focus on more important things. For example, if managing your inventory is taking up most of your time then you don’t have the time to focus on your customers as much as you should. This can have a negative impact on customer service. So, here are the best tools out there!
Best for Wireless Connectivity: NADAMOO Wireless Barcode Scanner
If you want some serious barcode scanner wireless range, look no further. The NADAMOO Wireless Barcode Scanner has one of the longest wireless ranges for barcode scanners (up to 328 feet indoors and 0.24 miles outdoors), all while registering your scanned items directly to your Mac, Windows or Linux computer.
The NADAMOO Wireless Barcode Scanner is both wireless and USB wired and is capable of uploading your scans into programs such as Microsoft Excel and Word. Its upload and storage saving modes come with a failsafe in case it’s out of range, so it saves your scans on its internal memory of up to 10,000 barcodes. Its decode capabilities are compatible with everything from UPC/EAN to IBSN and ISSN. It comes with a one-year warranty.
Most Compact: NADAMOO Wireless Barcode Scanner
The NADAMOO Wireless Barcode Scanner is a compact and ultra-portable option, measuring 6.3 x 3.9 x 3.15 inches and weighing only 8.2 ounces. Any shopkeeper that is mobile or always on-the-go will find this barcode scanner to be the most accommodating for lightning-fast transaction processes.
The NADAMOO Wireless Barcode Scanner includes two connection types: wired USB for stationary computers and a Bluetooth mode that can connect directly to your mobile device up to a staggering 100 meters away. When in mobile use, this barcode scanner utilizes its internal storage (about 100,000 barcodes) that can be later used in uploading to your computer or other devices. It supports a wide range of barcodes including UPS, USPS, FedEx, DHL, and many more.
Best Compatibility: Symcode USB Automatic Barcode Scanner
For those wanting a reliable barcode scanner with assured compatibility, the Symcode USB Automatic Barcode Scanner is the way to go. It’s compatible with Windows, Mac and Linux operating systems across the board and comes with a simple installation process once plugged in.
The Symcode USB Automatic Barcode Scanner is a wired barcode scanner that connects through to your computer via a six foot USB cable. It’s capable of scanning 100 scans per second with a decode capability ranging from Code11, Coda Bar, UPC, EAN-13 and more. It’s also one of the only barcode scanners that’s shockproof from up to a 1.5-meter drop on solid concrete. It comes in black, white and gray.
Best for Wearability: Symcode 2D Bluetooth Ring Barcode Scanner
Got a ton of inventory you need to scan and sign off on? The Symcode 2D Bluetooth Ring Barcode Scanner is an innovative little barcode scanner that fits tidily on your index finger and is best for anyone that’s in constant motion and keeping track of everything in a warehouse or distribution center.
The Symcode 2D Bluetooth Ring Barcode Scanner connects via Bluetooth to your iOS and Android mobile devices without any additional software. It comes with a built-in 16MG memory that can store 5,000 barcodes, as well as an LED indicator and buzzer that can be triggered with each scan so you know data is being collected. Its CCD image red light sensor are accurate and sensitive enough to pick up and decode various barcodes, including UPC, ISB/ISSN, Code 39 and many more.
Best High-Capacity/Big Businesses: TaoTronics Bluetooth & Wired Barcode Scanner
TaoTronics 2-in-1 Bluetooth & Wired Barcode Scanner brings consumers a powerful barcode scanner that can be connected wirelessly up to 22 to 32 feet indoors through Bluetooth, or through a stabilized wired connection. The reliable barcode scanner is compatible with devices utilizing Bluetooth, such as smartphones, tablets and computers, and is able to directly upload data via each scan.
While other wireless barcode scanners don’t mention battery life often, the TaoTronics 2-in-1 Bluetooth & Wired Barcode scanner includes a battery life of up to 30 hours, and can be fully charged in 1.5 hours via its USB charging cable. It features an internal 16MB built-in-storage, so users can save up to 200,000 barcodes on it and upload later to their devices with programs such as Microsoft Word or Excel. It’s 32-bit processor allows up to 200 scans in one-second and it works with 99 percent of all barcodes.
Best for Handsfree Scanning: Symcode Omnidirectional
Completely handsfree and without the fuss of bar alignments, the Symcode Omnidirectional is built with a high-speed scanning laser with no blind area. It’s the ideal barcode scanner for anyone that’s quickly processing transactions in a stationary setting and wants no delay or hangup.
The Symcode Omnidirectional boasts a whopping 600 scans per second and features 20 lines of optical grafting, making it easy for you to catch every scan from passing products. Its strong decoding capability can read all 1D barcodes in multiple directions, so you can scan codes at virtually any angle. Made for desks, this barcode scanner is great for any stationary scanning in environments such as manufacturing or personal small businesses.
EZ Office Inventory
EZ Office Inventory is another comprehensive business barcode scanning and inventory management solution on the list. It provides a free barcode scanning application for the management, tracking and maintaining accurate inventory data.
When taken as a complete package along with other tools, users can customize its features like data storage, analytical tools, etc., for a unified experience. One of its best aspects is that it is easy to install and can be integrated with a plethora of business applications.
Key Features:
- Custom barcoding
- Rapid bulk scanning
- Member ID scanning
- Real-time asset locating, assigning and alert management
- Delegated model for concerned officials to be active participants
- Zbar Barcode Scanner
Zbar Barcode Scanner app is a free and open-source barcode reading solution. It is enormously efficient in the reading of different barcode types and can even scan barcode formats from various sources such as videos, images, files, and raw intensity sensors.
Zbar Scanner is compatible with barcodes formats such as QR codes, EAN, Code 39, Interleaved 2 of 5 among various other types. One of its best aspects is that it has a convenient user experience and is designed for both personal uses and business.
Key Features:
- Linux/Unix, Windows, iOS
- High speed – real-time scanning from video streams
- Small memory usage
- Not limited to images
- Suitable for embedded applications using inexpensive processors/hardware
- Modular components can be used together or separately
CodeREADr
CodeREADr is an all-encompassing barcode scanning software specially designed for SMEs and startups. CodeREADr offers end-to-end scanning and inventory management solutions and is designed for businesses to manage their stocks seamlessly.
This barcode scanning system provides additional functions such as barcode generation, serial number tracking along with scanning and inventory management, on a single platform. It is compatible with Windows, Android, iOS and can also be accessed via the web.
Key Features:
- Rapid Barcode Scanning
- Data collection with custom forms
- Validation of scans in real-time
- Working offline with auto-sync
- Photo-capture, GPS and Signature scanning
Best Bluetooth barcode scanner: TaoTronics TT-BS030US 2-in-1 Bluetooth & Wired Barcode Scanner
This scanner has a handy 2-in-1 design that allows for wireless Bluetooth connectivity or a wired connection. It supports virtually all barcode types, including UPC/EAN, Code39, Coda Bar, ISBN, ISSN, and others.
Pros:
- 2-in-1 connectivity
- Long-lasting battery
- Fast scanning speed
Cons:
- Pricier than some other models
Best industrial barcode scanner: Zebra LI3678-SR Ultra-Rugged Cordless 1D Barcode Scanner
For those who need a barcode scanner in rugged conditions or extreme temperatures such as a manufacturing facility exposed to dust or a refrigerated warehouse, this industrial barcode scanner offers durability as well as all of the features you’d expect from a quality barcode scanner.
Pros:
- Ultra-rugged – dustproof, spray proof, waterproof with the highest drop, tumble and sealing specification
- Extreme temperature rating
- Wireless design
Cons:
- Comparatively expensive (however this is typical for an industrial scanner)
Scout Mobile Inventory
Type: Warehouse Inventory Management
Cost: Free (Requires topShelf subscription)
Description: Scout is the mobile front end to the topShelf warehouse and inventory management application. Scout is a cloud based app that is scalable to meet the needs of any business from a small retailer to a distribution warehouse. Depending on the version of topShelf, every function involved in inventory management is available including shipping/receiving, order picking, cycle counting, proof-of-delivery, kit building/BOM, and even wave picking. All inventory and supply chain management tasks can be completed by using the phone in your pocket. All your data is available through a simple web portal so you can always have access to your inventory wherever you are.
Application Use: Complete warehouse inventory management
Pros: Very scalable, real-time data updates and reporting, No updates or loading of software, comprehensive solution for any size/type of inventory.
Cons: Requires topShelf subscription
Download: iOS / Android
Learn more ›
Increase your efficiency and scanning speed with a dedicated scanner for:
Smartphones: 1D Scanner / 2D Scanner
Tablets: 1D Scanner / 2D Scanner
Zbar Barcode Scanner
It is a free open source utility that is very efficient in barcode reading. The application can even scan barcodes from various sources including video streams, image files, and raw intensity sensors. It also supports barcodes types like EAN, QR codes, Code 39, Interleaved 2 of 5 and many others. The application is very easy to use and you can use this free app for your business or personal use. Get it here.
Stock Control
Type: Inventory Management
Cost: $9.99
Description: Stock Control is an easy to use and full features inventory tracking app that allows you to track items by category, attributes and location. The strong point of this app is how customizable it is. There are some fixed attributes for each item but you can also freely create whatever attributes you need. With the item loan function and its ability to search by item or location barcodes, Stock Control can also be used for asset management. It even has a function to let you know when a given item’s stock level goes below a set level for easy re-ordering. You can also easily export and import your inventory data as CSV files for use on your PC or Mac. Stock Control is a very easy to use and flexible app to manage any kind of inventory or asset collection.
Application Use: Inventory and asset management
Pros: Easy search function, shortage alert for each item, customizable categories, locations, and attributes.
Cons: Must use iTunes or iCloud (iOS 5 only) for data transfer
Download: iOS
Increase your efficiency and scanning speed with a dedicated scanner for:
Smartphones: 1D Scanner / 2D Scanner
Tablets: 1D Scanner / 2D Scanner
BcWebCam
It is a free tool that can scan your barcode and can give you instant online results. The application is very easy to use and you don’t need any hardware device, you can just scan those barcodes with your webcam. You don’t need to spend extra money on any expensive barcode scanners – you can do so with your Windows PC. The application has a field that instantly shows you item number in the field. You just need to capture an image of your barcode and you are ready to go. The supported codes list includes EAN 13 and EAN 8. You can also read QR codes which are generally used in magazines and web sites.
ByteScout BarCode Reader
ByteScout BarCode Reader makes scanning barcodes a breeze.
This is our list of the free Barcode Scanners or Barcode Readers. I personally liked bcWebCam the best, as it has support for many formats and it also has support for webcams.
Bonus
Quickbooks
QuickBooks is a popular barcode printing and billing software in India. Its mobile barcode scanning helps in reducing incorrect unit counts, mismatched SKUs, and human errors. Managers can make better business decisions by receiving reliable, real-time inventory data.
Tally. ERP9
Tally.ERP 9 is a GST-ready barcode printing and billing software used by most Indian small businesses. Tally is an on-premise billing software solution that caters primarily to small and midsize businesses in a wide array of industries.
Marg ERP9
Marg ERP9+ is another popular barcoding software for small businesses in India. Marg offers the best Barcode Software for barcode generation, reading, barcode label printing, billing & barcode scanning from the last 20 years.
Saral Billing Software
Saral is a cost-saving much popular barcode printing and billing software. Saral is an Accounting and Billing software for retailers and covers features such as counter billing, barcode integration, GST returns and more.
Busy Accounting Software
Busy Accounting Software is a barcode billing tool that can be used by small businesses. Item Bar Code Printing is an additional feature within BUSY Business Accounting Software which picks item data and prints Bar Codes on any Windows compatible printer.
Zoho Invoice
Zoho Invoice is a barcode printing and billing software and is very simple to use and packs with a friendly user interface. This software helps in creating unique barcodes with text, images, and much more.
Reach
Reach barcode software has got 20 different in-built invoices and can convert foreign currency to Indian currency. It comes with billing, inventory, barcode, stock, accounts and more.
Probilz
PROBILZ is a fully automated Retail Management System with integrated modules for barcode billing, merchandising, purchasing, receiving, and quick informative reporting.
Profitbooks
ProfitBooks is a one-stop barcode printing software. You can do a barcoding operation with GST compliance. You can easily print barcodes with the product information for smooth tracking and billing process.
JustBilling
JustBilling is another GST packed barcode inventory software. It can operate with any kind of bar code scanner. Based on different colors, sizes, styles, etc you can create exclusive barcodes of products.
Conclusion
One thing that you will find with the software is that it can actually certify you to generate numerous barcodes. There are many reasons why this system would be a great asset to your business. One of these is that it can provide you with a steady flow of inventory data. This is something that a lot of companies have trouble keeping up with and this system has been known to help them completely overcome those issues.