2D Barcode Reader Market - By Component (Hardware, Software), By Type (Handheld Readers, Fixed Readers, Mobile (Mounted) Readers), By Technology, By End-use Industry, Forecast 2024 – 2032

2D Barcode Reader Market Size

2D Barcode Reader Market was valued at USD 8.3 billion in 2023 and is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of over 8.8% between 2024 and 2032. With the rapid expansion of retail and e-commerce, the adoption of barcode readers has surged significantly.
 

The use of 2D barcode readers is significantly reducing human error in inventory management. Automated scanning ensures that data is recorded accurately, leading to more reliable inventory records and better decision-making. For instance, in July 2023, Datalogic announced the Gryphon 4500 Fixed Series. These devices are designed to work across a host of self-service applications in retail, manufacturing, healthcare, and transportation & logistics. They offer superior technological performance and ruggedness yet retain a small form factor for easy integration into kiosks, information points, self-check-in, and access control. They are easy to mount from any side, as they have various fixing points.
 

With the growing advancement in 2D barcode technology, there has been an increase in reliability for data capturing capabilities, which ensures higher accuracy, speed, and efficiency in tracking and managing inventory, assets, and information. This enhanced functionality has been achieved through the development of various types of 2D scanners, 2D barcode readers, 2D hand scanners, and 2D imagers. These devices employ sophisticated optical and imaging technologies to decode complex patterns encoded in two-dimensional barcodes. 2D barcode scanners utilize advanced optical and imaging technologies to capture and decode information.
 

Ensuring that 2D barcode readers work seamlessly with various software systems, such as inventory management and Point-of-Sale (POS), can be challenging. Compatibility issues can lead to operational disruptions and additional costs. Handheld barcode readers typically have a short scan range, meaning the user must hold them close to the barcode to read it correctly. This limitation poses a significant challenge when the barcode is in an inaccessible or hard-to-reach spot.
 

2D Barcode Reader Market Trends

The demand for image-based 2D barcode readers has been considerably increasing across various sectors such as retail and healthcare. This surge is largely driven by the need for more efficient, accurate, and versatile data capture solutions. Image-based barcode readers, which use advanced imaging technology to scan and interpret barcodes, offer significant advantages over traditional laser-based scanners, and through the integration of AI, they can provide solutions at a higher speed. Industries are increasingly recognizing the benefits of these advanced readers, driving their wide adoption and usage. With ongoing technological advancements, image-based 2D barcode readers are set to play a crucial role in enhancing data capture and identification processes in different fields.
 

For instance, in October 2023, Cognex Corporation launched the DataMan 380 series of fixed-mount, image-based barcode readers. The DataMan 380 barcode readers are equipped with a CMOS sensor and have up to 5,320 x 3,032, 16.13 MPixel resolution. Their shutter speeds range from 15 μs (minimum exposure) to 200 ms (maximum exposure).
 

The importance of barcode technology in healthcare is increasing with the current advancements in the scanning field. This technology offers a simple, affordable solution to all the complex issues emerging in the healthcare sector. Various hospitals already require patients to wear an identifying bracelet during their hospitalization. By incorporating barcode technology, a medical expert can scan the wristband to ensure that the right patient is being treated with the right technique, thus improving productivity and patient security. Nurses and other personnel use a patient’s identification bracelet to gather data including the capacity to electronically access his or her medical records. Medical staff can also make changes to a patient’s medical records, and such changes will be reflected in the hospital’s database system.
 

2D Barcode Reader Market Analysis

Based on type, the market is segmented into handheld readers, fixed readers, and mobile (mounted) readers. The mobile (mounted) readers segment is the fastest growing, with a CAGR of over 5% between 2024 and 2032.
 

• Mobile mounted 2D barcode readers are increasingly being integrated with IoT networks, ensuring real-time data transfer and analysis. This connectivity allows for continuous monitoring and tracking of assets, inventory, and shipments in the supply chain. The real-time data provided by these readers helps businesses make informed decisions quickly, improving efficiency and reducing operational costs. For instance, in a warehouse setting, mounted readers on forklifts or conveyor belts can automatically scan barcodes as items move, updating inventory systems in real time without manual intervention.
   
• The combination of mobile mounted barcode readers and advanced data analytics tools allows organizations to gain deeper insights into their operations. This trend is driven by the need for more granular and actionable data to optimize processes. Businesses can analyze patterns and trends from the collected data to predict demand, identify bottlenecks, and enhance overall productivity.

Based on technology, the market is segmented into laser scanners, imaging scanners, Charge-coupled Device (CCD) scanners, and omnidirectional scanners. The laser scanners segment dominated the market and is expected to reach over USD 8 billion by 2032.
 

• As businesses become more focused on sustainability, there is an increasing trend toward developing energy-efficient laser scanners. Manufacturers are investing in technologies that reduce power consumption and extend the lifespan of laser scanners, aligning with the broader goals of environmental responsibility and cost savings. Laser scanners offer versatility in their applications, capable of reading a wide range of barcode types & formats. They are effective in scanning both 1D and 2D barcodes, making them suitable for various industry requirements.
   
• The scanning speed of laser scanners is another factor contributing to their dominance. Laser scanners can rapidly scan multiple items in quick succession, which is essential in high-volume environments such as supermarkets, warehouses, and distribution centers. This fast-scanning capability reduces wait times and improves throughput, enhancing overall productivity.

The 2D barcode reader market is experiencing significant growth in Asia Pacific, estimated to reach USD 4 billion by 2032. The region has seen a dramatic increase in e-commerce activity, driven by rising internet penetration, smartphone usage, and consumer demand for convenience. China, India, and other Southeast Asian countries are leading this growth. E-commerce platforms require efficient inventory management and fast, accurate order fulfillment, both of which are supported by 2D barcode readers.
 

Furthermore, the automotive, e-commerce, retail, pharmaceutical, and logistics industries generate demand for 2D barcode readers in North America. Canada has embraced electronic commerce amid a major disruption in retail channels. In 2022, Canada observed over 27 million e-commerce users, accounting for 75% of the country’s population. This number is expected to grow to 77.6% in 2025. Increased online shoppers indicate that retail e-commerce sales in Canada continue to climb.
 

South Korea is known for its advanced mobile technology infrastructure and high smartphone penetration rates. This environment has fostered the wide adoption of mobile payment solutions that utilize 2D barcodes such as QR codes. Consumers can make payments by scanning QR codes displayed at stores, vending machines, and transportation hubs, promoting convenience and contactless transactions.
 

2D Barcode Reader Market Share

Honeywell International Inc. and Zebra Technologies Corp. together held over 10% share of the 2D barcode reader industry in 2023. Honeywell International Inc. is a prominent multinational conglomerate based in the U.S., known for its diversified operations across aerospace, building technologies, performance materials, and safety & productivity solutions. The company offers a wide range of products and solutions including advanced scanning and data capture technologies, which are integral to the market.
 

Zebra Technologies Corporation is recognized globally for its innovative solutions in data capture and automatic identification technologies. Its barcode scanners are known for their advanced imaging technology including high-resolution sensors and sophisticated decoding algorithms.
 

2D Barcode Reader Market Companies

Major players operating in the 2D barcode reader industry are:

• Honeywell International Inc.
• Zebra Technologies Corporation
• Datalogic S.p.A
• Cognex Corporation
• Opticon Sensors Europe BV
• SICK AG
• Denso Wave Inc.
   

2D Barcode Reader Industry News

• In March 2024, RTscan Technology Limited released RT860D, a high-speed 2D scanner for retail terminals. The barcode scanner is designed to read the barcodes found on products, which contain relevant information such as price, inventory number, and production details. Once the barcode is scanned, this information is logged into a computer system, allowing for quick checkout by customers and aiding merchants in inventory management.
   
• In October 2022, Socket Mobile Inc. announced the launch of its linear barcode plus QR code scanners, SocketScan S820, DuraScan D820, and DuraSled DS820. The S820 is a linear barcode & QR Code 1D/2D scanner with Bluetooth wireless technology. The D820 is similar to the S820 but better suited for intense scanning environments. The DS820 is easy to use and suited for delivery services, asset tracking, ticketing, and other application-driven mobile solutions.
   

The 2D barcode reader market research report includes in-depth coverage of the industry with estimates & forecast in terms of revenue (USD million) from 2024 to 2032, for the following segments:

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Market, By Component

• Hardware
  • Scanners/readers
  • Mounting hardware
  • Cables and connectors
• Software

Market, By Type

• Handheld readers
• Fixed readers
• Mobile (mounted) readers

Market, By Technology

• Imaging scanners
  • Charge-coupled device (CCD) scanners
  • Complementary metal-oxide semiconductor (CMOS) scanner
• Omnidirectional scanners

Market, By End-use Industry

• Education
• Government
• Healthcare
• Logistics & transportation
• Manufacturing
• Retail & E-commerce
• Others

The above information is provided for the following regions and countries:

• North America
  • U.S.
  • Canada
• Europe
  • Germany
  • UK
  • France
  • Italy
  • Spain
  • Rest of Europe
• Asia Pacific
  • China
  • Japan
  • India
  • South Korea
  • ANZ
  • Rest of Asia Pacific

• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Rest of Latin America
• MEA
  • UAE
  • Saudi Arabia
  • South Africa
  • Rest of MEA