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Data Matrix Generator
Create Data Matrix codes online for free – compact 2D codes for industry, pharma and small parts.
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What is a Data Matrix code?
Data Matrix is a very compact 2D code that stores many characters in just a few millimeters – the standard for industry, electronics and pharma serialization.
Its strong error correction makes it robust against scratches and partial occlusion, which is why it is often laser-etched directly onto parts.
Technical details
- Category
- 2D matrix code
- Data & character set
- alphanumeric and binary
- Capacity
- up to ~2,335 alphanumeric characters
- Check / error correction
- Reed-Solomon error correction (built in)
- Norm / standard
- ISO/IEC 16022
- Size & printing
- from a few square millimetres
- Good to know
- Standard for direct part marking (DPM) and pharma serialization under the EU FMD.
Compared to related codes
| Code | Category | Data & character set |
|---|---|---|
| Data Matrix code | 2D matrix code | alphanumeric and binary |
| QR code | 2D matrix code | text, URLs, digits, binary, WiFi, SEPA/GiroCode |
| PDF417 code | 2D stacked code (stacked linear) | alphanumeric, numeric and binary |
| Aztec code | 2D matrix code | alphanumeric and binary |
This helps you pick the right code type for your use case faster.
How to create a Data Matrix code
- The type “Data Matrix code” is preselected – you can change it anytime in the generator.
- Enter your value (example: HELLO-123).
- Adjust colors, module size and the quiet zone and check the live preview.
- Download the Data Matrix code as PNG, SVG or PDF, or print an A4 label sheet.
Use cases
- Industrial marking
- Pharma and medical devices
- Small parts and components
Tips for clean printing & scanning
- Keep contrast (dark modules on a light background) and test with several camera apps.
- Leave a quiet zone all around – at least four modules for QR codes.
- On small surfaces prefer 2D codes: they store more data in less space.
Features
- Free and no sign-up
- Instant live preview
- Export as PNG, SVG and PDF
- Customizable colors, size and caption
- Batch generation & A4 label printing
- Works on desktop and mobile
FAQ
- How do I create a Data Matrix code?
- Choose the type, enter your value (e.g. HELLO-123), adjust the design and download the Data Matrix code as PNG, SVG or PDF.
- What is a Data Matrix code used for?
- Typical use cases are Industrial marking, Pharma and medical devices, Small parts and components.
- What is an example value for a Data Matrix code?
- A valid example is “HELLO-123”. Just enter your own value and the Data Matrix code is generated instantly in the preview.
- Is the Data Matrix Generator free?
- Yes. Barcode Studio is completely free and requires no sign-up.
- Which download formats are available?
- You can export as PNG, SVG or PDF and print directly.
- Does it work on mobile?
- Yes, Barcode Studio runs in any modern browser on desktop and mobile.
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