QR code vs barcode: what's the difference?
A barcode and a QR code both let a scanner read data from an image, but they're built differently and suit different jobs.
Traditional barcodes (1D)
- Made of vertical stripes — data runs in one direction only.
- Hold a small amount of data, usually a product number (UPC/EAN).
- Read left-to-right and must be fairly level to scan.
- Used mainly for retail and inventory.
QR codes (2D)
- A square grid that stores data in two directions — far more capacity.
- Can hold links, text, Wi-Fi logins, contacts, and more.
- Scan from almost any angle thanks to their corner finder patterns.
- Include error correction, so they still read when partly damaged.
Which should you use?
For a product number in a store, a barcode is the standard. For sending someone to a link or sharing richer info, a QR code is the right tool. Scan QR Code Master reads both.
FAQ
- Is a QR code just a type of barcode?
- In a broad sense yes — both are machine-readable codes. But a QR code is a two-dimensional code that holds much more than a traditional one-dimensional (striped) barcode and can be scanned from any angle.
Scan and create QR codes in a tap
Scan QR Code Master is an ad-free QR and barcode scanner and generator, free to download for iPhone, iPad, and Mac — with history and one-tap sharing.
Download on the App StoreRelated guides
- What is a QR code and how does it work?
- How to scan a barcode with your phone
- How to share and print a QR code
- Static vs dynamic QR codes: what's the difference?
- Are QR codes safe? How to scan safely
- How big should a QR code be?
- How QR code error correction works
- How to change the color of a QR code (and keep it scannable)
- How to add a QR code to your resume
- How to test a QR code before printing it