Learn the differences between EAN-13, UPC-A, Code 128, and QR codes. Find out which barcode format your retail business needs for products and checkout.
Barcodes are the backbone of modern retail. They speed up checkout, eliminate pricing errors, and make inventory tracking automatic. But not all barcodes are the same. Understanding the different formats helps you choose the right one for your products.
EAN-13 is the most common barcode format for retail products worldwide. It contains 13 digits and is used on most packaged goods you find in stores. If you buy products from a supplier, they almost certainly have EAN-13 barcodes. <a href="/features/barcode-scanner">JayaOS supports EAN-13 scanning</a> out of the box.
UPC-A is the standard in the United States and Canada. It uses 12 digits and is functionally similar to EAN-13. Most modern barcode scanners, including phone camera scanners, can read both formats automatically.
Code 128 is a high-density barcode used for shipping labels, asset tracking, and other logistics applications. It can encode all 128 ASCII characters, making it more flexible than EAN or UPC codes. It is commonly used in warehouse management and supply chain operations.
QR codes are two-dimensional barcodes that can store much more data than linear barcodes. They are often used for marketing, menu links, and product information. <a href="/features/inventory-management">JayaOS supports QR code scanning</a> for products that use them.
When choosing barcodes for your products, use the format that matches your industry standard. For most retail stores, EAN-13 or UPC-A is the right choice. JayaOS's barcode scanner works with all these formats, so you can scan any product without worrying about compatibility.
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