Barcode Types Explained

Barcodes are the foundation of modern product circulation and inventory management. Different barcode types are suitable for different scenarios. This article will explain common barcode types and how to choose them.

1D Barcodes

EAN-13

EAN-13 is the international standard for product barcodes:

• Structure: 13 digits (including 1 check digit)
• Applications: Retail products, books (ISBN)
• Features: Globally universal

UPC-A

UPC-A is the product barcode standard in North America:

• Structure: 12 digits
• Applications: North American retail market
• Features: Compatible with EAN-13

Code 128

Code 128 is a high-density barcode:

• Structure: Can encode all 128 ASCII characters
• Applications: Logistics, inventory management
• Features: Large information capacity, suitable for complex data

Code 39

Code 39 is the earliest alphanumeric barcode:

• Structure: Supports numbers, uppercase letters and some special characters
• Applications: Industrial identification, healthcare
• Features: No check digit required, simple to use

2D Codes

QR Code

QR Code is currently the most popular 2D code format:

• Capacity: Can store up to 4296 characters
• Features: Can store URLs, text, business cards and more
• Applications: Mobile payments, product traceability, marketing

Data Matrix

Data Matrix is suitable for small size applications:

• Features: Small footprint, suitable for small products
• Applications: Electronic components, medical devices

How to Choose a Barcode Type

Online Tools

You can use our Barcode Generator and QR Code Generator to create barcodes for free.

Original content by the GoLabeling team. Please credit when republishing.