Gone are the days when a simple corded barcode scanner was the only option for keeping track of inventory. 

Today there are dozens of options, so how do you know you're making the right choice?

We’ll review laser scanners, linear scanners, 2D scanning devices, as well as corded and wireless scanners.  We also explain the extra features best suited for your requirements.

So before you go out and buy the first scanning device you see, check out our handy guide to the best models in each category.

The 5 Best Handheld Inventory Scanners

Quick Answer:

#1 Zebra LI3678-SR Ultra-Rugged - Best Industrial Handheld Scanner

#2 Datalogic Gryphon GM4500 - Best General Purpose 2D Scanner

#3 Datalogic Skorpio X5 - Best Data Collection Terminal

#4 Symcode Wearable 2D Barcode Ring Scanner - Most Compact 2D Scanner

#5 Namadoo 433MHz Wireless Barcode Scanner - Best on a Budget

#1 Best Industrial Handheld Scanner - Zebra LI3678-SR Ultra-Rugged

As a linear imager, it can only scan codes in 1D but is able to recognize these when damaged, dirty, or even wrapped in polythene. If your scanning requirements involve harsh conditions and the ability to scan items that have been exposed to those conditions, an Ultra-Rugged from Zebra is an excellent choice.

Zebra do also offer 2D scanning models in the same range, so if your specific needs include the processing of more complex data and even taking document photographs they can still facilitate these business processes. Industrial 2D technology is expensive though, so most firms will save money by sticking to a linear imager.

#2 Best General Purpose 2D Scanner - Datalogic Gryphon GM4500

Along with a 4-dot and cross aiming system, this makes for user-friendly, reliable inventory scanning, avoiding missed scans or errors effortlessly whether scanning from close distances or farther away.

The 4500 series integrate fully with most point-of-sale systems, so you can scan barcodes straight into your stock control and inventory tracking module.

This helps you make the best use of features such as end-to-end and in-transfer stock tracking, which are far more effective with full integration than if using devices that require separate processes for making scans and importing the barcode data into your point-of-sale suite.

While the devices in the Gryphon GM4500 series handheld scanner range are sold as general-purpose scanners, you aren't making too much compromise on hardware durability.

The casings are IP52 rated and tested against repeated drops from 6ft. While a Gryphon handheld scanner may not operate under the same range of temperatures and other adverse conditions as an industrial scanner, it's plenty tough enough for most applications without such extreme specific needs.

#3 Best Data Collection Terminal - Datalogic Skorpio X5

Being an android device, there are almost unlimited features you can add to the Skorpio X5, depending on the needs of your business.

The system allows you to use your point-of-sale application directly from the terminal, so your most recent scans can be used for inventory data analysis immediately, wherever you are.

However, these features do come with a hefty price tag so think carefully about the needs of your business before investing in this type of handheld inventory management system.

#4 Most Compact 2D Scanner - Symcode Wearable 2D Barcode Ring Scanner

One small drawback of this impressive little cordless scanner is the range. Being a Bluetooth unit, it can only transmit up to 33ft(10m) from the receiver. However, inbuilt offline storage does allow you to scan and store up to 5 000 sets of barcode data before you have to return to range and transmit.

In addition, this smart little Symcode scanner is iOS and Android compatible. This means, depending on the nature of your operation, the "receiver" could itself be a mobile phone or tablet. If the operator needs to go further from their usual workstation, they can bring their receiving device along, giving complete freedom of movement.

#5 Best on a Budget - Namadoo 433MHz Wireless Barcode Scanner

Another great feature of this Namadoo system is the option to switch between one-to-one and many-to-one transmission. This means you can either allow multiple scanners to transmit to one receiver (if multiple personnel are working in one area) or use a single dedicated unit for each receiver if you're operating distinct departments and want to keep the inventory data separate.

One of the only real drawbacks of this unit, compared to others in a similar category, is the beeping noise on scanning is quite quiet. This means the automatic scanning feature may not be suitable for use in noisy warehouse conditions, where an employee may miss a beep and accidentally end up double-scanning items. In such environments, it's advisable to use the manual, scan-on-trigger setting.

Factors To Consider When Buying

Type of Scanner

There are three common types of handheld inventory scanners: laser scanners, linear imagers, and 2D (area) imagers.

Laser scanners are the cheapest but require good lighting and struggle to read damaged barcodes or those with faint print effectively. They are mostly suitable for indoor, well-lit jobs using newly printed barcodes (such as in a manufacturer's shipping department).

Linear imagers do not require the same levels of light or barcode condition as laser scanners. They are still limited to reading 1D barcodes however and are more expensive than their laser counterparts. If your laser scanner isn't efficient due to operating conditions or regular label damage, these are the logical replacement.

The gold standard of handheld scanner technology is the 2D imager. They scan 2D labels such as QR codes as well as linear barcodes, and work from any angle, even in low light or with some damage to the barcode. Aside from the higher cost, the only real limitation is they don't work particularly well at ranges under 6", so can be tricky if your inventory is packed into small spaces.

Cordless vs. Corded

If you only need to scan individual items in a relatively fixed position e.g. on an assembly line or at a checkout point, a corded scanner is the cheaper option. The power cord also helps prevent scanners from being lost or easily stolen.

However, for operations such as warehousing, it is easier to have a cordless scanner that staff can use anywhere within range of the receiver. For many models this range can be 100' or more, giving employees plenty of mobility.

Another advantage of a cordless scanner is the option of batch processing. This lets you scan multiple distinct items (e.g. on a mixed pallet) but have them transmitted and coded as a single batch.

Do I Need an Industrial Model Scanner?

If your scanning requirements include operating under harsh conditions e.g. extreme temperatures or high humidity, an industrial scanner will be less prone to failure and outlast a general-purpose model. They're also much more physically durable, able to withstand being dropped or knocked when working in a rugged environment.

In addition, industrial handheld inventory scanners tend to have extra functionality, including the capacity to store data when operating in situations where network coverage may be patchy.

These models are very expensive, however, and most smaller businesses or office-type environments will find the extra features surplus to requirements.

POS Integration

If your business operates a full POS system, an integrated scanner allows you to track inventory via the POS interface and generate discrepancy reports. This means getting notified if your items in stock don't match up with your purchases and sales, so you know exactly what's unaccounted for and can investigate accordingly.

A simpler, non-integrated inventory scanner will export data to a spreadsheet rather than your pos. Some POS systems allow you to import that data and generate discrepancy reports but this is not as streamlined as an automated transfer. If your POS doesn't allow spreadsheet imports for scanned inventory, you'll have to run your comparisons manually, which is a very time-consuming and tedious process.

Final Thoughts