7 Best Barcode Scanner Apps

QR Code scanning is a popular method for finding products, making online payments, and checking menus. QR codes are often built-in to camera apps on iPhone and Android phones, making it easy to scan them. However, some apps may offer more protection from harmful links or allow users to create their own QR codes.

In this article, a curated list of the best QR Code scanner apps is provided. QR codes are still popular as they allow users to access content, terms and conditions, or competitions easily. While QR code scanning is easy, it requires a third-party app for more protection and the ability to create QR codes.

7 Best Barcode Scanner Apps

1. Kaspersky’s QR Code Reader and Scanner

Kaspersky is a renowned cybersecurity company known for its anti-virus software and robust internet and office security. As one of the best Barcode scanner apps for Android and iOS, Kaspersky QR Scanner is a smart QR reader developed by the company. The app uses the company’s malware database to detect rogue QR codes containing dangerous links that can expose users to malware and phishing traps.

Once scanned, the information is stored on-device, allowing users to easily access past links, images, and websites. Kaspersky QR Scanner is one of the best free third-party scanning apps for iOS and Android.

Kaspersky QR Scanner

Features:

• It not only reads QR codes but also checks the safety of texts, images, and websites linked to the QR code.
• It scans for unsafe and malicious QR codes and provides a warning when encountering a dodgy link.
• It also offers a History tab for easy access to websites associated with past QR codes.

Price: Free

Download Link: Kaspersky’s QR Code Reader and Scanner

2. QR & Barcode Reader by Gamma Play

Gamma Play’s QR & Barcode Scanner is a popular Android app with over 100 million installs. It can scan and read various types of QR codes and barcodes, including text, URL, ISBN, product, contact, calendar, email, location, Wi-Fi, and more.

QR & Barcode Reader by Gamma Play

Features:

• The app automatically decodes the QR code and provides users with relevant options for actions.
• Users can also scan coupons and coupon codes for discounts and savings.
• The app also allows users to create QR codes and share contact information via QR codes.
• Gamma Play’s app also stores a history of past scans, allowing users to compare prices online.
• The app automatically identifies actions such as visiting a URL, saving contact information, or calling a phone number after each scan.

Price: Free [Code Export $0.99 – Remove Ads $0.99]

Download Link: QR & Barcode Scanner by Gamma Play

3. QR Code Reader by Scan

QR Code Reader by Scan is a widely-used and highly-rated app for scanning QR codes and barcodes on iOS and Android devices. It allows users to quickly and accurately scan QR codes and barcodes using their device’s camera. It also maintains a scan history.

QR Code Reader by Scan

Features:

• It allows users to create QR codes from various content types.
• The app supports a wide range of barcode and QR code formats, including QR codes, UPC codes, EAN codes, and Data Matrix codes.
• It also handles web links, allows contact information import, and assists users in connecting to the specified Wi-Fi network.
• The app prioritizes user privacy and security, ensuring that scanned data is handled safely.
• Its user-friendly interface makes it easy for users to scan codes quickly.

Price: Free [Remove Ads $0.99 – Professional $3.99]

Download Link: QR Code Reader by Scan

4. NeoReader QR & Barcode Scanner

NeoReader is a versatile QR Code reader that can scan various barcode types, including Data Matrix, QR Codes, Aztec Codes, EAN, UPC, Code 128, and PDF 417. The app is straightforward to use, requiring users to click the displayed link after scanning the QR Code. NeoReader is known for its speed and accuracy, allowing users to access information from codes even without an internet connection.

NeoReader QR & Barcode Scanner

Features:

• It automatically detects the type of QR Code and scans from any direction.
• NeoReader maintains a detailed history of all scans for easy reference.
• It supports scans using both front and rear cameras and confirms the website before visiting external URLs.
• Key features include versatile scanning, speed and accuracy, history and favorites, offline scanning, content handling, privacy and security, customization, and cross-platform availability.
• Users can also customize the app’s behavior, such as enabling or disabling specific code types or setting preferences for handling different content types.

Price: Free [Continuous scan – $1.99]

Download Link: NeoReader QR

5. QuickMark Barcode Scanner [Free QR Code Scanner for iOS only]

QuickMark Barcode Scanner is a free iOS app that supports various barcode formats, including Quick code, QR Code, Data Matrix, EAN 8/13, Code39, and Code 128. It also allows users to add contacts, navigate locations, send business emails, and add events to the calendar.

The app also facilitates scanning barcodes from images. Users can use the in-app purchase feature for bulk scanning of QR Codes and export a.csv file to a Dropbox account. QuickMark Barcode Scanner is known for its simplicity, speed, and accuracy in barcode and QR code scanning. It is available for both iOS and Android devices and is known for its versatility.

QuickMark Barcode Scanner

Features:

• Versatile, fast and accurate scanning.
• Offers offline scanning.
• Web link handling.
• Contact and calendar event handling.
• Prioritizing user privacy and data security.
• The app is cross-platform, ensuring users can use its features across different platforms.

Price: Free

Download Link: QuickMark Barcode Scanner

6. QR Droid and QR Droid Private [Free QR Code Scanner for Android only]

QR Droid and QR Droid Private are Android apps designed for scanning and creating QR codes. QR Droid is known for its QR code scanning capabilities, allowing users to scan QR codes using their device’s camera. It also offers tools for creating QR codes from text, URLs, contact information, and other data. QR Droid Private, on the other hand, is designed with a focus on privacy, allowing users to scan and create QR codes without an internet connection or data sharing.

QR Droid Scanner

Features:

• The app offers customization options.
• History of scanned QR codes.
• Prioritizes user privacy.
• It also has additional features like decoding and creating barcodes and sharing QR codes.
• It can scan QR codes and create new ones offline, ensuring data remains on the device.
• Users can customize the appearance of QR codes and add custom logos or images.
• QR Droid Private emphasizes secure QR code generation, reducing the risk of data leakage or unwanted sharing.

Price: Free

Download Link: QR Droid

7. ShopSavvy

ShopSavvy is a comprehensive app that offers a comprehensive database of retailers, supports standard scanning, account synchronization, and a library of scanned goods. It allows users to scan barcodes of various products, such as sneakers, alcoholic drinks, and food, to compare prices in nearby stores. This makes it an excellent road trip planner app, enabling users to make informed purchases and save money. Its goal is to help consumers save money by identifying the best deals and providing information about discounts and promotions.

ShopSavvy

Features:

• Read product reviews.
• Make informed purchasing decisions.
• Large database of retailers.
• Synchronized with your account
• Can find a lost product by the keyword

Price: Free

Download Link: ShopSavvy

Scan Barcodes Without Any App

Smartphones often lack built-in barcode scanning functionality, but some platforms have integrated features that can be accessed without downloading a separate app. Apple introduced a built-in QR code scanner in the Camera app on iOS devices starting with iOS 12.

To Access Android Build-in Barcode Scanner:

1. Open the Google app on your Android device.
2. Tap the Google search bar or microphone icon to activate Google Assistant.
3. Say or type “Scan a barcode.”

To Use Samsung Galaxy’s Built-in Barcode Scanner:

1. Open the Samsung Internet browser or Samsung Internet (Beta) browser.
2. Tap the three-dot menu icon in the bottom-right corner.
3. Select “Extensions”.
4. Choose “QR code reader” or “Barcode scanner.”

The availability of built-in barcode scanning features may vary depending on your device’s make, model, and operating system version. Our iPhone’s built-in Camera app can scan QR codes, and it’s as easy as taking a photo with these steps:

1. Open the camera app and adjust it in such a way that the QR code appears in the viewfinder.
2. Your iPhone would recognize the QR code and give you a notification.
3. You can Tap the notification to open the link associated with the QR code.

Conclusion

Kaspersky’s QR Code Reader and Scanner is a reliable app for Android and iOS users that uses Kaspersky’s malware database to detect rogue QR codes. Gamma Play’s QR & Barcode Scanner is popular with over 100 million installs and offers features like decoding, creating QR codes, and sharing contact information. QR Code Reader by Scan and NeoReader are also popular apps for scanning various barcode types.

QuickMark Barcode Scanner is a free iOS app that supports various barcode formats and allows users to add contacts, navigate locations, send emails, and add events to the calendar.

FAQs – Best Barcode Scanner Apps

1. Is there a barcode scanner app specifically for iOS users?

Yes, QuickMark Barcode Scanner is a free iOS app that supports various barcode formats, including QR codes. It also offers additional features like contact handling and calendar event creation.

2. How can I scan barcodes without using a dedicated app?

Some smartphones have built-in barcode scanning features. For example, iOS devices have a built-in QR code scanner in the Camera app, and Android devices with stock Android may have a built-in scanner in the Google app or browser.

3. How does barcode work?

Modern one-dimensional barcodes are read using a scanner that sends out a laser to detect patterns. Computers can only read binary or base 10, 0’s and 1’s, which is why they look like dot and line bars. Black parts don’t reflect well, so they’re recorded as 1.

4. Are barcodes safe to scan?

Barcodes are generally safe to scan, but they can pose security and privacy concerns. The content of the barcode, QR codes, data privacy, security of scanning devices, counterfeit products, and government regulations can all impact safety. It’s crucial to use trusted devices and apps, stay informed about best practices, and be cautious when scanning barcodes from untrusted sources.