So, we’ve rounded up the top picks for you. You’ll find multiple options that will meet your needs in any department, both big and small. The barcode scanners listed range from units with assured compatibility and straightforward instructions to affordable prices and super long wireless ranges. Depending on your needs, we promise that we have a reliable barcode scanner for you and your business. Ahead, the best barcode scanners you can buy. Despite its low price, the Symcode USB Barcode Reader can support a wide range of barcode types, including UPC/EAN, UCC/EAN 128, Code 39, Code 39 Full ASCII, and many more. It operates via a USB connection and is capable of both flicker and continuous scanning. If you’re looking to save money, Symcode USB Barcode Reader is an affordable option that still gets the job done. 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 100,000 barcodes. Its decode capabilities are compatible with everything from UPC/EAN to IBSN and ISSN. It comes with a one-year warranty. Scans per second: 280 | Wireless: Yes | Storage: Up to 100,000 barcodes 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. Scans per second: 260 | Wireless: Yes | Storage: Up to 100,000 barcodes The Symcode 2D Bluetooth Ring Barcode Scanner connects via Bluetooth to your iOS and Android mobile devices without any additional software. Its CCD image red light sensor is accurate and sensitive enough to pick up and decode various barcodes, including UPC, ISB/ISSN, Code 39, and many more. Scans per second: 200 | Wireless: Yes 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. 

What to Look for in a Barcode Scanner

Durability

Consider the environment your barcode scanner will be in. Will it be in extreme temperatures? Are you going to be carrying it around? To make sure your barcode scanner is durable, check and see if it is shockproof, made of tough materials, and if it has been drop tested. These details will tell you if it can survive accidental drops and other damage.

Wireless Capability

Barcode scanners can either be USB-wired and/or wireless. Wireless barcode scanners are great if you’re on the go and are not able to scan items at your desk. If you decide that a wireless scanner is right for you, make sure the range will cover your space.

Storage of Barcodes

If you have a wireless barcode scanner, you’ll want to make sure that it has an adequate amount of storage to save your barcodes if it is unable to upload your scans to your computer. Depending on the barcode scanner’s internal memory, they can usually save anywhere between 5,000 to 200,000 scans. If your storage is full, you can plug the barcode scanner into your computer and upload them.

Scans per Second

The scans per second of a barcode refer to how fast the scanner will scan and decode your data. Most barcode scanners can scan between 100 and 200 scans per second. However, you can find barcode scanners that scan much more, like 600 scans per second.