2D VS 1D BARCODES: HOW DO THEY DIFFER?

A 1D barcode uses variable-width lines and spaces to encode data, similar to a UPC symbol on grocery items.

This linear approach limits data storage to only a few dozen characters, and it means the barcode gets longer as you add more data to it.

A 2D barcode uses patterns of squares, hexagons, dots, and other shapes to encode data.

This means data can be encoded vertically and horizontally, which means 2D barcodes can hold more data in a much smaller space.

A 2D barcode can hold hundreds of characters compared to a few dozen with a 1D barcode.

In addition, thanks to its added capacity, a 2D barcode can store images, website URLs, voice data, and other binary data types.

In contrast, a 1D barcode is limited to alphanumeric information only.

As an added benefit, the vertical and horizontal orientation of a 2D barcode means you can scan it at virtually any angle.

This is far more efficient for scanning operations compared to a 1D barcode, which requires that a barcode scanner’s laser be properly aligned with the barcode.

Anyone who has ever used a self-checkout lane at a grocery store can probably appreciate the frustration of not being able to scan items quickly and easily due to this alignment requirement.

Database Dependence vs. Independence

1D barcodes are database-dependent. You need to scan each barcode and relate it to data in a database, such as matching a UPC symbol with a price in a checkout system.

Since a 2D barcode can hold much more data, including information of varying types, you don't need to access a database to make use of the encoded information.

You can store, scan, and retrieve all the data you need from the code itself.