Sometimes referred to as a scanner, barcode readers are electronic devices that scan a barcode and then transfer data like prices or inventory amounts to a computer. They're most commonly found when you checkout in a store or employees may use them in a distribution centre.

Here at RS, we work closely with leading manufacturers in the industry like Banner Engineering, Omron Automation, and SICK to ensure we're offering you only the best barcode scanners.

Take advantage of our advanced filters when browsing to narrow your search. You can filter by manufacturer, in-stock items, and other options. Once you've found the product you're looking for, we may be able to offer same-day shipping to get the product to you as soon as possible.

Learn more about our barcode readers, their benefits and how to choose the right one below. You can also get in touch with our experts who will be happy to support your shopping experience too.

What are barcode scanners used for?

Barcode readers have many uses and can speed up processes and identify objects quickly across several different industries including:

Retail: Barcode readers are used in retail to scan products at checkout. This will then add the price of the product to the computer.

Logistics: Barcode scanners are used throughout the logistics process. Items are scanned when they arrive at a warehouse, scanned when they leave, and finally scanned once they arrive at the delivery location. This allows the items to be tracked consistently.

Sports and entertainment: Ticketed sporting or entertainment events use barcodes for entry. Scanning a ticket on phones or a printed sheet rapidly shows if the ticket is authentic. This keeps queues down upon entry.

What to consider when browsing our barcode scanner products?

Barcode scanners come in different forms depending on what you intend to use them for. The key differences are whether they're 1D or 2D and whether they're corded or wireless.

1D Vs 2D barcode readers

1D barcode readers scan linear codes using a traditional laser scanner. These codes tend to be found on the back of goods you can buy and contain alphanumeric data. This is a sequence of characters which link to a product on a computer which then offers information such as prices or stock levels. We use the UPC-A format in the US which has 12 unique characters for each product.

2D barcode readers are a more versatile option which is why they tend to be popular across all kinds of businesses. 2D barcodes store more information than 1D codes because they're organised vertically and horizontally and use numerous shape patterns to encode data. The barcode contains squares, rectangles or individual dots and are often far more readable than 1D barcodes - even when they appear smaller. Common industries where you'll find 2D barcodes are manufacturing, logistics, and healthcare.

Opting for a 1D scanner is the cheaper option but is limited to reading basic data. Whereas 2D readers can scan both 1D and 2D barcodes and have the storage capacity for things like images or website URLs.

Wireless Vs Wired barcode scanners

Depending on your business and the application you'll be using the barcode reader for, both of these options offer benefits. Corded barcode scanners connect to a PC using a USB wire and are great for checkouts in stores. They offer little freedom to roam around but are relatively inexpensive to install. These corded barcode scanners can have a handheld design or be completely hands-free depending on what you're scanning.

Wireless barcode scanners are the ideal portable choice for tasks that require you to move around to scan your barcodes. This could be for store managers doing stock checks or employees in warehouses scanning barcodes on the items around the facility. This offers improved efficiency and productivity.

What are the benefits of using barcode scanners?

Barcodes have automated a vast amount of processes across businesses. Using them will ensure you benefit from the following:

Increased accuracy - Barcodes allow staff members to scan products instead of manually inputting data. This reduces the chances of human error which ensures greater accuracy.

Real-time data - The database that your barcode scanner sends information to will constantly be updating in real time, meaning you get fast, accurate access to the data you need.

Less training required - Scanning a barcode is simple and is easily picked up by employees. This gives you more time to focus on other training areas for the role.

Relatively cheap to run - The upfront investment for barcode products is relatively low and barcodes don't cost a lot to produce either. Plus, the supporting technology is reasonably priced.

Why buy your barcode reader from RS?

With more than 650 barcode scanner products available, you can rely on RS for everything you need. Plus, we only stock products from industry leaders thanks to our long-standing relationships with them, so you can be confident you're getting the best when shopping with us.

Take advantage of our advanced filters to narrow your search. And make sure you click on the PDF icon on our product pages to find out more information about each of the barcode scanners.

Once you place your order, we'll quickly get it ready and ship it to you from our technologically advanced distribution centre in Texas. This will ensure you keep downtime to a minimum whilst you wait for your order.

If you want to learn even more about electronics or automation, then our expert hub is the place for you. Alternatively, you can also get in touch with our knowledgeable team who will be able to assist you.