Handheld scanners
Handheld scanners, corded, Bluetooth or body-worn, from brands such as Datalogic, Zebra, ProGlove, Unitech and Honeywell. For reading 1D and 2D barcodes in retail, warehouses or factories with comfort and fast capture.
Handheld scanners for 1D and 2D codes
The collection brings together a very common reader format: the one you hold, aim and trigger. There are Datalogic PowerScan kits with base, the 1D Heron HD3130 and the 2D Gryphon GBT4600, the corded Zebra DS3608 with DPM capability, and the Bluetooth models Unitech MS912 Plus and MS852B+.
A separate line is the ProGlove wearable scanners (Mark Basic, Mark 2, Mark 3, Mark Display), which are worn on the hand to scan without putting the load down. References from Honeywell, Star Micronics and Socket are also included.
Criteria for choosing a handheld scanner
- 1D or 2D: 1D is enough for linear labels; 2D adds QR, Data Matrix and greater tolerance of damaged codes.
- Corded or Bluetooth: the USB cable is simple and does not depend on batteries; Bluetooth lets you move around the warehouse or shop.
- Ruggedness: for intensive use in warehouses or industry look for a reinforced housing, drop resistance and IP protection; at the counter a standard model is enough.
- Reading distance: some models are designed to read up close and others from several metres, for example on high shelving.
- Special codes: if you need to read direct part marking (DPM) or low-quality codes, choose a model that expressly states it.
- Accessories: base, desktop stand and specific cables depending on the part number.
Sectors that use handheld scanners
They are used in shops and supermarkets for inventory and checkout, in warehouses and logistics centres for goods receiving and picking, in factories for part traceability, in hospitals and laboratories to identify samples and in transport companies to record goods at each point on the route.
Frequently asked questions
What is a wearable scanner?
It is a reader worn on the hand or forearm and triggered with the finger. It avoids picking up and putting down the reader in repetitive tasks such as picking.
Is 2D worth it over 1D?
If you only read EAN or Code 128 on paper, a 1D scanner is sufficient. If QR codes, Data Matrix, on-screen codes or damaged labels come up, a 2D scanner avoids many problems.
What does DPM mean?
It is the acronym for direct part marking: codes engraved or dot-peened on metal or plastic. They require 2D readers specifically prepared for this type of marking.
Can it be used with a tablet or a mobile?
Bluetooth models pair with mobiles and tablets; USB corded ones connect to computers and POS systems. Check the connection mode on the product page.