QR codes and barcodes are both used for product identification, but they differ in functionality and capacity. Barcodes are linear, one-dimensional codes that store limited information, while QR codes are two-dimensional codes capable of storing significantly more data, including URLs and text.
If you want to track inventory or display basic information, a barcode is sufficient. However, if you need to provide more detailed information or enable interactive experiences, QR codes are ideal.
Let’s discuss the difference between Barcode and QR Code in detail.
Table of Contents
What is Barcode?
A barcode is a series of parallel black lines with white spaces that represent data in a machine-readable form that can be used to encode data.
Barcodes are widely used on products, packaging, and components to efficiently store information for marketing, inventory management, and other applications.
What is QR Code?
QR code stands for Quick Response code. It’s a type of two-dimensional barcode consisting of a square grid of black and white squares that encodes information in a machine-readable format.
Read About: Create Custom Branded QR Code with Razorpay
Differences Between Barcode and QR Code
Here is a table explaining a barcode vs QR code.
Parameters |
Barcodes |
QR Codes |
|
Development Years |
Barcodes were created by Norman Joseph Woodland in 1952. |
QR codes were developed by Masahiro Hara in 1994.
|
|
Data Storage |
They store numeric codes that are represented by parallel lines of varying widths, that can be both one-dimensional and two-dimensional. These codes are understood by computers when scanned. |
They store data using a combination of black and white squares arranged in a two-dimensional matrix pattern. They codes are used for scanning and retrieving information.
|
|
Visual Representation |
They are represented by bars and spaces with varying widths. Optical barcode scanners can read these visual representations. |
They are based on Morse code and consist of black and white squares. Mobile phones or dedicated QR code scanners can read them. |
|
Storage Capacities |
They can typically store more than 100 bytes of data. They typically require less storage compared to QR codes. |
They have a much larger storage capacity, capable of storing up to 2 kilobytes of data. |
|
Cost-effectiveness |
Barcodes are cost-effective solutions. |
QR codes are also cost-effective. Since you can create a custom QR code, it becomes easier for you to deploy it in your payment process. |
|
Communication Aspect |
Barcodes facilitate one-way communication from the scanner to the computer system.
|
Only one QR code can be read at a time, allowing for more interactive experiences, such as accessing websites or downloading apps directly from the code. |
|
Typical Usage Scenarios |
Barcodes find their applications in various sectors like supermarkets, stores, hospitals, and warehouses for tracking product information and prices.
|
QR codes have become widespread in stores, public places, advertisements, event tickets, digital payments, and loyalty programs. They enable quick access to information or actions, such as to view reviews or make a payment. |
How Does Barcode Get Decoded?
Barcode decoding is the process of reading and interpreting the encoded data within a barcode.
The following steps outline this process:
STEP 1: A barcode reader employs a light source, typically a laser or LED, to scan a barcode.
STEP 2: The reflected light from the barcode is captured by a light sensor within the reader.
STEP 3: The sensor converts the light variations into electrical signals representing the barcode’s pattern of black and white bars.
STEP 4: The electrical signals are processed by the reader’s decoder to convert the pattern into digital data.
STEP 5: The decoded data, in the form of a code, is transmitted to a connected device, such as a computer or point-of-sale system.
STEP 6: The received data is interpreted and used for various applications including inventory management, product identification, and tracking.
How Does a QR Code Get Decoded?
A QR code is decoded through a process involving image processing and pattern recognition.
STEP 1: Image Capture: A device, like a smartphone camera, captures an image of the QR code.
STEP 2: Pattern Recognition: The image is processed to identify the specific pattern of black and white squares that make up the QR code.
STEP 3: Data Extraction: The decoder extracts the encoded data from the pattern, using algorithms designed to interpret the specific structure of QR codes.
STEP 4: Error Correction: QR codes have built-in error correction mechanisms. The decoder uses these to account for any damage or imperfections in the code.
STEP 5: Data Interpretation: The extracted data is converted into a readable format, such as text, a URL, or contact information.
Read More About: Beginner Guide to QR Code Generation
Conclusion
The answer to QR code vs barcode is that barcodes consist of numbers and parallel lines of varying width, while QR codes are composed of black and white squares. QR codes have the advantage of being able to store more data compared to barcodes. The difference between a barcode and a QR code lies in their visual representation and data storage capacity.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which is better QR code or barcode?
The choice between a QR code vs barcode depends on the specific use case. Barcodes are ideal for simple identification purposes and can efficiently store numeric data. They are commonly used in retail for product pricing and inventory management. On the other hand, QR codes offer more versatility as they can store larger amounts of both numeric and alphanumeric data, including URLs, contact information and text.
2. What is the capacity of barcodes vs QR codes?
Barcodes have limited storage capacity and can typically hold 20-25 characters of numeric data. In contrast, QR codes have a much larger capacity and can store up to 7,089 numeric characters or 4,296 alphanumeric characters.
3. Is a barcode cheaper than a QR code?
Barcodes are generally cheaper to produce compared to QR codes because they only require printing parallel lines on paper or labels. On the other hand, generating QR codes involves more advanced technology, such as software applications or online generators that allow you to customise the code’s design and content. However, considering the additional functionality and versatility offered by QR codes, they may provide better value for certain use cases despite the slightly higher cost.
4. How much data is stored in a barcode?
A barcode typically stores 12-20 characters of numeric data. This length may vary depending on the specific type of barcode used (such as UPC or EAN), but it generally remains within this range.
