Barcode vs QR Code: What’s the Difference?
QR Code is a matrix barcode (2-D) that can be found in smartphones as a means to share the Wi-Fi password, augmented reality, virtual stores, etc. You can even generate your own QR codes and store all sorts of useful information. Standard line barcodes, on the other hand, are mostly used in consumer products such as FMCG, groceries, books, etc. Whether you own a small business, a warehouse, or a kitchen pantry, using a barcode scanner app can greatly optimize your workflow.
1. Bakodo
Bakodo is an intuitive barcode scanner for iPhone that allows you to quickly scan barcodes on books, movies, games, groceries, and other retail products. You just point the camera on the barcode and the app quickly reads the code and fetches the search results for you. It supports multiple symbologies such as EAN13, ITF, PDF417, QR, etc. that would ensure you can recognize any popular barcode. The way Bakodo finds products is by searching the barcode number and looking it up on Google. This means you have limited information and if it isn’t publicly available, you may not find anything at all. Bakodo is a simple scan and search app that fetches information by reading the barcodes but if you want a more comprehensive app then read more. Get Bakodo (free, $2.99)
2. Barcode Reader for iPhone
The iPhone barcode scanner works really well as it covers a broader ground in finding products. It is free and has ads which you can remove for $1. Get Barcode Reader for iPhone (free, $1)
3. Barcode Scanners
Barcode Scanners is a professional-grade scanning app that incorporates features that are commonly found in industrial scanners. The scanning interface is really simple that focuses on scanning items quickly. You get a torch button to scan in low light, a zoom button to scan tiny code, and a history list of all the codes you’ve scanned. The barcode scanner settings offer customizability that allows you to tune the app. The area where this app shines is the ability to read different types of barcodes. As it supports both 1-D and 2-D barcodes, you can manually enable and disable symbologies depending upon your usage. Along with that, you can specify how to parse any given code. Barcode Scanners is a free app with no in-app purchases. Get Barcode Scanners (free)
4. ShopSavvy
ShopSavvy is a little different as it was designed to keep consumers in mind who wish to get the best possible deals. At the heart of this barcode scanner for iPhone app is a comprehensive system that catalogs every product scanned. When you scan an item’s barcode, the app scans over 60,000 retailers across the U.S. and displays the best price. You can create folders and organize your pantry and household items that would allow you to easily find items again. Once an item is scanned, the app keeps track and notifies you of price drops. ShopSavvy also has a Safari extension that would seamlessly offer notifications on your Mac. The app is free and has ads but you can get a subscription for $2/month to remove them and enable the folder option. Get ShopSavvy (free, in-app purchases)
5. Barcode to PC
Barcode to PC is a Wi-Fi barcode scanner that transforms your iPhone into a handheld barcode scanning tool. This app is designed to make scanning a large number of products easier and then plot all the data into a CSV file on your computer. The advanced barcode scanner iPhone app is accompanied by a server that runs on your computer and receives information in real-time. You just need to keep the computer running and start scanning items with your iPhone. The app also has a manual input option that would let you feed the barcode number with the iPhone keyboard. Barcode to PC is a free app on the App Store. Get Barcode to PC (free)
6. Barcode Alarm Clock
If you’re a heavy sleeper then you would love this app, Barcode Alarm Clock finds an effective way of waking you up in the morning. When you set up an alarm, it will ask you to present a barcode which you need to scan as the key. Once it is set up and the alarm goes off, you will have to find the same barcode and scan it with your iPhone. As a backup, if you can’t find the item, you would have to manually enter the code to turn off the alarm. The app works flawlessly and you can bet it’s going to wake you up. Get Barcode Alarm Clock (free)
7. Use a Physical Barcode Scanner
How do you use Barcode Scanner for iPhone
These were a few of the best barcode scanner apps for iPhone that let you scan barcodes on the move. The list above has a healthy variety of apps ranging from simple scanners to comprehensive tools designed for businesses. You also have an app that is actually an alarm clock with a really interesting way of incorporating barcodes. Which barcode scanner do you use let me know on Twitter?
