Comprehensive Guide to 5 Types of POS Scanners

POS scanners, designed specifically for retail Point of Sale (POS) systems, are scanning devices used for quickly reading barcodes or QR codes on products, as well as customer payment codes, to facilitate sales transactions. These point of sale scanners, varying in scanning technology and usage methods (handheld, fixed, and embedded), can be categorized into five main types, each with unique features to meet the needs of different retail environments.

Handheld Laser Scanner

These handheld scanners use a laser beam to scan barcodes and decode information through the reflected light. They can read 1D barcodes, such as the common retail barcodes UPC and EAN. Their operational range varies, extending from a few centimeters to several dozen centimeters.

Handheld laser scanners are characterized by their fast scanning speed, long scanning depth, and low error rate. They are especially suitable for retail environments that require quick processing of a large volume of goods.

Handheld CCD Scanner

These handheld POS barcode scanners use red light LEDs to illuminate the barcode and a CCD sensor to capture the reflected light image, which is then converted into a digital signal for decoding. Simple in structure and low in manufacturing cost, CCD scanners are commonly used in small retail stores and convenience stores.

Similar to laser scanners, these handheld POS scanners can only read one-dimensional barcodes but are suitable for close-range scanning, usually within a few centimeters. However, due to the broader coverage of red light, they can more comprehensively read barcode information, making them more effective in reading damaged or blurred barcodes.

Handheld 2D Imager Barcode Scanner

2D imager barcode scanners are the most widely used type of checkout and POS scanners. They have a broad barcode reading capability, able to recognize not just 1D barcodes but also QR codes, Data Matrix codes, and various barcodes displayed on electronic screens.

The use of 2D handheld barcode scanners has grown with the rise of mobile payment technology. Their applications now extend beyond traditional product barcode scanning to include mobile payments, electronic coupons, and verification code redemption.

These scanners typically employ advanced CMOS sensor technology and provide higher precision and faster scanning speeds.

For example, the HPRT N130 2D barcode scanner uses high-performance decoding technology for long-distance, easy scanning with a precision of 3mil. It can also quickly identify damaged or deformed barcodes, significantly improving the checkout efficiency of supermarkets and retail stores.

The N130 handheld scanner is compatible with multiple operating systems, including Windows, iOS, and Android. This compatibility, combined with its plug-and-play convenience, makes it an ideal choice for a variety of retail settings. These settings include chain supermarkets, boutique stores, and specialty shops.

HPRT has launched a series of innovative 2D barcode scanners. This range includes both USB and wireless POS scanners. They are designed to meet the specific needs of diverse industries, from retail and catering to warehouse management and logistics tracking. These customized scanning solutions aim to provide businesses across various fields with efficient and accurate scanning experiences, thereby facilitating smoother business processes.

In-Counter Barcode Scanner

These POS barcode scanners are embedded into cash registers or service counters and can automatically read 1D barcodes passing through their scanning area.

Counter-embedded scanners usually come equipped with high-performance sensors and multi-faceted lenses, allowing for barcode scanning without specific positioning of the item, freeing up the cashier’s hands and greatly improving checkout efficiency. Additionally, they are easy to install without occupying counter space.

Compared to handheld scanners, in-counter scanners are usually more expensive in terms of initial investment. This is mainly because they require professional installation and must be integrated with existing POS systems.

Moreover, if an embedded scanner malfunctions, it typically requires professional technicians for repair, which may temporarily disrupt related business operations. Another consideration is that compared to handheld scanners, embedded scanners have a relatively fixed scanning range, meaning they may not be as flexible and convenient as handheld scanners when dealing with large or irregularly shaped items.

Fixed Barcode Scanner

Fixed barcode scanners, typically installed at cash registers, can quickly and accurately identify both 1D and 2D barcodes, including traditional product barcodes and modern mobile payment QR codes. They are suitable for scanning smaller items, ideal for jewelry stores, convenience stores, pharmacies, etc.

When customers check out, they simply need to align their mobile payment QR code with the scanner for quick payment, significantly enhancing the efficiency of self-checkout. Additionally, these scanning devices are generally compact, not occupying extra space, making the cash register area more organized and efficient.

HPRT offers a wide rrange of point-of-sale scanners, whether you are a POS device reseller, system integrator, or looking for a factory that offers OEM/ODM POS scanners, don’t hesitate to contact us.