How Do You Choose a Barcode Scanner? 1D vs 2D, Corded vs Cordless, Handheld vs Presentation
In short
Start with three questions. Which codes must you read? A 2D imager reads both 1D barcodes and 2D codes such as QR codes, including codes on phone screens. Do staff need to walk away from the counter? Then go cordless. Do they hold the scanner, or present items to it? That decides handheld or presentation.
Choosing a barcode scanner comes down to three decisions: what the scanner must read, whether it needs a cable, and how staff will hold it. Get those right and the model choice becomes short.
This guide uses the Zebra and Honeywell scanners on our barcode scanners page as examples. Every specification quoted here comes from the manufacturer’s datasheet, linked beside it.
What is the difference between a 1D and a 2D barcode scanner?
A 1D (linear) barcode is the familiar row of bars and spaces on retail packaging. A 2D code, such as a QR code or Data Matrix, stores data in both directions and holds far more in a small space.
The scanner technology differs too. Zebra explains that a 2D imager can scan 2D barcodes and 1D barcodes, while a 1D laser scanner cannot read 2D codes.
| 1D laser scanner | 2D area imager | |
|---|---|---|
| Reads 1D barcodes | Yes | Yes |
| Reads QR and other 2D codes | No | Yes |
| Reads codes on phone screens | No | Yes |
| Orientation | Line must cross the bars | Reads in any orientation |
| Example on our site | Honeywell Voyager 1250g | Zebra DS2200 Series, Honeywell Xenon XP 1950g |
The Voyager 1250g is a single-line laser scanner that reads standard 1D and GS1 DataBar codes (datasheet). The other models we list are area imagers that read 1D and 2D codes.
Do you need a 2D imager if your products only carry 1D barcodes?
In most shops, yes. Customers now show loyalty cards, e-coupons and payment or pickup codes on their phones. Zebra notes that traditional laser scanners cannot scan from a backlit device.
The Honeywell Voyager XP 1470g is designed for exactly this mix of printed barcodes and codes on smartphones (Honeywell datasheet).
A laser scanner still makes sense for a back-room task that only ever reads linear barcodes. For anything customer-facing, buy 2D.
Corded or cordless: which should you choose?
A corded scanner draws power from the host and never needs charging. It suits a fixed checkout where every item comes to the counter.
A cordless scanner lets staff reach bulky items, scan shelf stock or walk a few metres from the till. It adds a base or cradle and a power source to manage.
| Need | Corded examples | Cordless examples |
|---|---|---|
| Budget POS lane | Zebra DS2208 | Zebra DS2278 |
| High-volume checkout | Honeywell Xenon Ultra 1960g, Xenon XP 1950g | Honeywell Xenon XP 1952g |
| Retail, manufacturing, hospitals | Zebra DS4608 | Zebra DS4678 |
| Counter or kiosk, may change later | Zebra CS60 Series (converts between both) |
Cordless power differs by model, so read the datasheet:
- Zebra DS2278: 2,400 mAh battery, rated for 110,000 scans at 60 scans per minute (spec sheet).
- Honeywell 1952g: runs on a supercapacitor instead of a battery and reads up to 10 m (33 ft) from its base (datasheet).
- Zebra DS8100 Series: offers a Li-Ion battery or a fast-charging PowerCap capacitor (spec sheet).
Handheld or presentation scanner?
A handheld scanner is aimed with a trigger. It is the most flexible choice for mixed items and reaching into trolleys.
A presentation scanner sits on the counter and reads items held up to it, so the cashier keeps both hands free. Several handhelds can do both: the Zebra DS2200 Series works hands-free in its presentation cradle, and the Zebra CS60 Series converts between handheld and hands-free use (spec sheet).
In-counter and fixed-mount scanners are built into checkouts or conveyor lines. They are project installations rather than off-the-shelf purchases, so talk to us about the site first.
How tough does the scanner need to be?
A scanner that lives on a counter needs less protection than one used in a stockroom. Compare three datasheet figures: drop height to concrete, tumble test and IP sealing.
| Model | Drop to concrete | Sealing | Datasheet |
|---|---|---|---|
| Honeywell Voyager 1250g | 30 drops from 1.5 m | IP41 | |
| Honeywell Xenon XP 1950g | 50 drops from 1.8 m | IP41 | |
| Zebra DS2200 Series | Multiple drops from 1.5 m | IP52 | |
| Zebra DS4600 Series | Multiple drops from 1.8 m | IP52 | |
| Zebra CS60 Series | Multiple drops from 1.8 m | IP65 (scanner) |
A higher second IP digit means better protection against water. For wet or dusty areas, choose the higher rating.
Which scanner fits which job?
- Supermarket or busy checkout: the Xenon Ultra 1960g, with optional extended-range models for bottom-of-basket scanning (datasheet).
- Small shop or café counter: the Zebra DS2200 Series, corded or cordless.
- Pharmacy counter or self-service kiosk: the compact Zebra CS60 Series.
- Damaged or poorly printed labels: the Honeywell Xenon XP 1950g, built to read difficult codes (datasheet).
How does the scanner connect to your POS or system?
Most models connect by USB, keyboard wedge or RS-232, as each datasheet lists. Keyboard wedge mode types the scanned data into whatever field has focus, so it works with most POS and web systems without extra software.
If your workflow needs more than that, our software development team builds integrations and custom apps around scanning. We also supply local maintenance and support for the scanners we sell.
Not sure which model fits? Send us the codes you scan and where you scan them, and we will recommend a shortlist.
Frequently asked questions
Can a 2D scanner read ordinary 1D barcodes?
Yes. Zebra states that a 2D imager can scan 2D barcodes and can also scan 1D barcodes, so one 2D scanner covers both.
Source: Zebra - What Is a 2D Barcode?
Can a laser scanner read a QR code on a customer's phone?
No. Zebra notes that traditional 1D laser scanners cannot scan from a backlit device, so reading codes on phone screens needs a 2D imager.
Source: Zebra - What Is a 2D Barcode?
Is a cordless scanner worth it for a small shop?
It is worth it when staff scan items away from the counter, such as bulky goods or stock on shelves. If every item comes to the counter, a corded scanner is simpler and never needs charging.
What is a presentation scanner?
A presentation scanner sits on the counter and reads items held up to it, so the cashier keeps both hands free. Several handheld models, such as the Zebra DS2200 Series, can also work hands-free in a presentation cradle.
How do I know how tough a scanner is?
Check the datasheet for the drop height to concrete, the tumble test and the IP sealing rating. Each model page on our site links the manufacturer datasheet.
Will a new scanner work with my POS system?
Most models connect by USB, keyboard wedge or RS-232, as listed in each datasheet. Tell us your POS or system and we will check the interface and configure the scanner before delivery.
Sources
- Zebra - What Is a 2D Barcode?
- Honeywell Voyager XP 1470g datasheet (PDF)
- Honeywell Voyager 1250g datasheet (PDF, Techcon copy)
- Honeywell Xenon XP 1950g datasheet (PDF, Techcon copy)
- Honeywell Xenon XP 1952g datasheet (PDF, Techcon copy)
- Honeywell Xenon Ultra 1960g datasheet (PDF, Techcon copy)
- Zebra DS2200 Series spec sheet (PDF, Techcon copy)
- Zebra DS4600 Series spec sheet (PDF, Techcon copy)
- Zebra DS8100 Series spec sheet (PDF, Techcon copy)
- Zebra CS60 Series spec sheet (PDF, Techcon copy)
