Best Barcode Scanners of 2025
Barcode scanners are vital pieces of equipment for many companies. Find the best scanners for 2025 including best overall, handheld, lightweight, retail, pocket scanners and more.
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Benefits of Barcode Scanners
First created as a grocery store retail solution, the practical uses of barcode readers soon spread into other sectors like warehouse management, libraries, asset tracking and more. Barcode scanners have become a key component in most business environments.
Barcode scanners are such common pieces of equipment that businesses cannot operate efficiently without using the technology. The advantages of barcode scanners provide increased efficiency and tracking for companies around the world.
Barcode Scanner Reviews
If you’re looking into acquiring or updating your barcode scanners for your business or warehouse, you’ve come to the right place. The best barcode readers are functional, dependable, ergonomically designed, and include various features. Let’s not forget about price either. In this post, we present the top 10 best barcode scanners for 2025. Also find our list of the top selling barcode scanners.
Honeywell Granit XP 1991iSR: Best Rugged Scanner
The Honeywell Granit™ XP 1991iSR sets a new standard for rugged barcode scanning. Built to survive 3-meter (10-foot) drops and with an impressive 7,000 tumble test rating, this scanner is engineered for the harshest industrial environments. Its deeply recessed, scratch- and impact-resistant window protects against dust, moisture, and damage, ensuring long-term performance. Featuring Honeywell’s next-generation imaging platform, the Granit XP can quickly and accurately read even damaged and low-quality barcodes.
The cordless 1991iSR model specifically targets operations that demand constant mobility and fast-paced scanning, making it ideal for warehouse floors, loading docks, and logistics environments where durability and speed are critical.
Key Features:
- Survives 3 m (10 ft) drops, 7,000 tumbles, IP67 sealing, and extreme operating temperatures.
- Extreme performance scanning, even on damaged and poor-quality barcodes.
- Ideal for near-field 1D and 2D barcode scanning.
- Honeywell Operational Intelligence provides actionable scan insights.
- Scanner Management Utility (SMU) simplifies deployment and updates.
Zebra DS8178 HC: Best Healthcare Scanner
Designed specifically for healthcare environments, the Zebra DS8178-HC offers healthcare providers a powerful, cordless solution to capture even the most challenging barcodes. It features purpose-built housing to prevent bacterial spread and innovative aiming and feedback options suited for sensitive hospital environments.
Designed to streamline workflows and improve patient safety, the DS8178-HC helps healthcare workers minimize errors, maximize speed, and stay compliant with hygiene protocols at every stage of patient care.
Key Features:
- Purpose-built healthcare housing to reduce bacteria spread.
- Captures ultra-high-density and low-contrast barcodes effortlessly.
- Multiple feedback modes optimize use across diverse healthcare settings.
- Safe for NICU use with a green aimer to minimize PTSD triggers.
- UDI Scan+ for quick capture of medical device information.
AirTrack S2X: Best Everyday Scanner
The AirTrack S2X is a cost-effective, cordless scanner perfect for everyday use. It excels at reading hard-to-read, damaged, or mobile device barcodes, providing operators with a fast and reliable scanning experience using its intuitive blue dot aiming system.
Compact and lightweight, the S2X is built for flexibility across multiple industries, providing a dependable scanning experience whether on a checkout counter, in back-office inventory, or even in light industrial environments.
Key Features:
- Cordless 1D and 2D barcode scanning with omnidirectional capability.
- Reads poorly printed and damaged barcodes, as well as barcodes on screens and through plexiglass.
- Precise and intuitive aiming system for accurate scanning.
- Affordable yet powerful performance for general use.
Proglove Mark 3: Best Wearable Scanner
The Proglove MARK 3 revolutionizes hands-free scanning with its multi-range capabilities and lightweight design. Built for challenging supply chain environments, this scanner enhances worker productivity while ensuring comfort throughout long shifts.
Designed with worker comfort and high-volume operations in mind, the MARK 3 enables workers to move freely and work faster without the fatigue or interruptions associated with traditional handheld scanners.
Key Features:
- Scans from 10 to 600 cm with multi-range functionality.
- Lightweight (40 grams) for all-day comfort and precision.
- Heavy-duty battery charges in under 2 hours.
- Rugged enough for outdoor use, low temperatures, and dusty environments.
- M-Case accessory enables secure mobile payment device attachment.
Honeywell Genesis XP 7680G: Best Presentation Scanner
The Genesis XP 7680g by Honeywell delivers a top-tier presentation scanning experience with 20% faster speeds and superior motion tolerance. Its sleek, compact design and 360° LED feedback ring provide an outstanding user experience for employees and customers alike.
Thanks to its high motion tolerance and wide scan area, the Genesis XP is perfect for high-volume environments where quick, no-fuss scanning enhances both employee satisfaction and customer checkout experiences.
Key Features:
- Reads poorly printed and digital barcodes with ease.
- Supports 1D, 2D, PDF, Dotcode, and Digimarc symbologies.
- 20% faster scanning and greater motion tolerance.
- Rugged design meets strict durability standards.
- Future-proof with firmware upgrades and accessory support.
Datalogic PM9600: Best High-Performance Scanner
The Datalogic PowerScan PM9600 series offers unmatched flexibility and high-performance scanning options. Whether capturing standard barcodes, reading at a distance, or taking full-color document images, the PM9600 is built for versatile applications at an affordable price.
This powerhouse is perfect for manufacturing, logistics, and quality control applications, delivering speed, flexibility, and reliability for industries where downtime and errors are simply not an option.
Key Features:
- Available in Standard Range, High Performance, and Document Capture models.
- Dual camera option for long-distance barcode scanning.
- Document capture feature for quality control and signature confirmation.
- “Green Spot” technology ensures a good read, even on damaged labels.
- Gentle white light illumination reduces eye strain.
What is the Best Barcode Scanner?
While the Zebra DS3600 handheld scanner is our pick for best overall scanner, the right device for your business depends on the application. The DS3600 is a solid choice as a versatile scanner that has several advantages. However, it may not be the best choice for some applications. Find other best scanner articles including best rugged scanners and best pocket scanners.