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Which barcode for which purpose?
Not every barcode suits every purpose. This guide helps you pick the right code type for your task in seconds.
Open the generator →Retail & products
For retail items use EAN-13 (international) or UPC-A (North America). Both are based on a GTIN.
Logistics & shipping
For cases and pallets use ITF-14 and GS1-128 (with batch, quantity and expiry data). For internal labels, Code 128 is ideal.
Books, journals & pharma
Books get an ISBN code, journals an ISSN code, medicines in German-speaking regions a PZN.
Digital, WiFi & payments
For links, menus and displays use the QR code. For guest WiFi the WiFi QR code, for invoices the GiroCode.
2D for industry & tickets
Mark tiny parts with Data Matrix, large data with PDF417, tickets with Aztec.
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FAQ
What is the difference between 1D and 2D?
1D barcodes (bars) store a few digits/characters; 2D codes (QR, Data Matrix) hold much more data in a small area.
Which code is most universal?
For digital content the QR code, for products EAN-13, for internal marking Code 128.