The 7 Best Barcode Scanners for Excel That Work Like a Breeze
Written by co-founder Kasper Langmann, Microsoft Office Specialist.
Microsoft Excel can also be used for inventory management and tracking.
But to do it more efficiently, you will need barcode scanners to make it easy to categorize and pull up information on certain items.
My favorite scanner is the Esky Handheld Barcode Scanner!
It’s easy to use, fast scanning speed, and has huge memory capacity.
In this article, you will find seven different barcode scanners that will work with Excel easily.
Let’s get started!
Barcode Scanners Reviewed
This list was last updated on January 4th, 2022.
1. Esky Handheld Barcode Scanner
Starting with the best one you can find, the Esky Handheld Barcode Scanner is what you would want to work with especially if you’re still starting out.
Aside from its no-brainer installation, it’s also easy to use despite having the fastest scanning speed and the largest memory capacity on the market.
It is also covered with shock-resistant ABS plastic which guarantees its long service life. In addition, your hands won’t get strained too much with its easy grip and ergonomic design.
This scanner is compatible with the three major operating systems — Windows, Mac, and Linux. So it doesn’t matter which system your running Excel on, this will work nonetheless.
In terms of features, the Esky Handheld Barcode Scanner has over 180 configurable options and works with most coding systems.
It also automatically clones decoders in under 10 seconds, with over 300 decoders per hour.
3. BEVA Wireless Handheld Barcode Scanner
If you want a cheaper alternative to the ScanAvenger scanner, this BEVA Wireless Handheld Barcode Scanner will suffice.
Since it costs less than the previous scanner, you can expect fewer features.
However, you still need to check it out as it also has unique features not found on other scanners.
In terms of connectivity, this scanner has a 2.4G wireless connection via a USB dongle as well as a USB wire.
This is also a plug-and-play scanner with up to 328 feet transmission.
One of the features you may like with this scanner is its anti-drop design of eco-friendly ABS scanner material and silicone protective cover.
Even if it drops from a 1.5m height, it will still work perfectly.
This BEVA scanner is compatible with Mac and Windows devices and will read and upload barcodes straight to Microsoft Excel and Word.
4. WoneNice USB Laser Barcode Scanner
If you want a scanner that’s below the $20 mark, check out this WoneNice USB Laser Barcode Scanner that’s ideal for shops and warehouse operations.
This is a wire scanner with a simple installation using any USB port.
It’s compatible with Windows, Mac, and Linux operating systems and will work with Excel, Word, and other common software.
This WoneNice scanner has a high scanning speed of up to 200 scans per second. It could also decode most of the coding systems in the world.
It also allows for over 300 configurable options for prefix, suffix, and termination strings.
Like the BEVA scanner, this one also has an anti-shock design that makes it durable enough to withstand a 6.62 feet concrete drop.
5. Symcode Barcode Scanner
An alternative to the WoneNice scanner is the Symcode Barcode Scanner that’s still below the $20 mark.
Like the previous one, this is still a handheld type, wired laser scanner with a LED and buzzer indicator.
Unlike the WoneNice scanner, this only allows 150 scans per second.
This is also compatible with Windows, Mac, and Linux and works with most office applications including Word, Excel, Quickbook, and Novell.
The cool thing about this scanner is that although it is wired, there’s no need to install any software or application.
6. Symcode Bluetooth Ring QR Barcode Scanner
This Symcode Bluetooth Ring QR Barcode Scanner has a unique design.
It’s a wearable wireless mini code reader that you can wear like a ring.
It’s connectivity features are also highly advanced as it could connect via 2.4G wireless or through Bluetooth 4.0.
The transmission can be up to 30 feet or 10 meters and is compatible with Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS devices — no installation required.
This Symcode Ring Scanner supports 1D Code and 2D Code scanning. One charge could last up to 6 hours with only 1.5 hour recharging time.
7. Symcode 2D QR Barcode Scanner
If you like a hands-free scanner, check out this Symcode 2D QR Barcode Scanner that can easily capture bar 1D and 2D codes on labels, paper, and even on phone or computer displays.
It uses CCD (Charge-Coupled Device) Optical Imaging Scanning Technology that can identify screen codes as well as incomplete codes or fuzzy codes.
This scanner has an auto-sense scan design with a sound and LED indication for power and operating conditions.
It’s also designed to survive a fall from a 5 feet height.
Take note that although this is also a plug-and-play scanner, this will only work on devices that have a USB port.
Wrapping things up…
Currently, there are hundreds of different scanners on the market.
These seven scanners outlined in this article are what’s considered the best out there.
If you have the budget and you would like to have the best scanner with the most features, you should go with the Esky Handheld Barcode Scanner or the ScanAvenger Portable Wireless Bluetooth Barcode Scanner.
The WoneNice USB Laser Barcode Scanner and Symcode Barcode Scanner are perfect if you’re on a tight budget.
The Symcode Bluetooth Ring QR Barcode Scanner and Symcode 2D QR Barcode Scanner are perfect for specific needs that you may have.