What is the difference between 1D 2D and 3D barcode scanners?

Differences Between 1D, 2D, and 3D Barcode Scanners


1D Barcode Scanners

  • Read linear or traditional barcodes, consisting of lines and spaces.
  • Can only store data in the horizontal direction, hence limited data capacity.
  • Typically used in retail for product identification, pricing, and inventory management.

2D Barcode Scanners

  • Capable of reading two-dimensional barcodes like QR codes and Data Matrix.
  • Store data both horizontally and vertically, allowing for significantly more data storage compared to 1D barcodes.
  • Widely used in various industries for tracking, logistics, and marketing due to their larger storage capacity and ability to encode information such as URLs, serial numbers, and images.

3D Barcode Scanners

  • Also known as 3D imaging scanners, they capture images of objects to identify them using shapes, sizes, and the surface characteristics instead of traditional barcodes.
  • Not limited to reading printed codes, capable of identifying objects even in challenging lighting conditions or when the object's surface is irregular.
  • Find application in automation, manufacturing for quality control, logistics, and healthcare for advanced tracking and identification purposes.
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