Best QR Code Readers
QR codes are only helpful if you have a device and code reader for scanning. It is one of the factors that you need to consider when creating QR codes.
In the past, people used barcodes, a compilation of black and white vertical lines. There’s a special scanner that reads them. But with the arrival of QR codes, the technology that decodes them has changed for better access and response.
What Can You Use As A Code Reader?
Most smartphones and tablets can scan the code. You must open the camera app or use third-party software to decode the information. Upon checking and clicking the link, the user can go to their desired destination, such as a website, a menu, a video, etc.
Some QR code scanners have extra features like keeping a record of the scanned codes or reading other types of codes, like UPC and ISBN.
If this is your first time trying a QR code scanner, worry not, as we’ve selected some of the best readers you can try.
1. Barcode
Bar-Code is one of the oldest scanners in the market. It can scan different codes, whether QR, EAN, UPC, or ISBN.
Bar-Code uses your mobile device’s camera to decode the code. It also allows you to read codes in your photo gallery.
You need to click the main button to scan codes to start using it. It will display the code’s format and the information it contains. You can share its content via email, Google Drive, Facebook, and other social media.
To access the destination included in the code, you must tap the option “Search the last barcode on the Internet.”
Bar-Code is free, but you’ll be receiving ads. If you want to eliminate them, you have to pay a certain fee. Additional configuration options also mean extra costs.
2. I-nigma
Developed by 3GVision, this QR code scanner received a user rating of 4 out of 5 stars online. It can scan QR codes, EAN, UPC, and more.
When you open the application, it will automatically open your camera. As you point your camera to the code, it will notify you of its content. You can tap on it to visit the link and share it.
I-nigma has a primary interface, yet it performs well. It can scan customized or reversed QR codes. It also saves a history of all your scanned codes and their contents.
This app is free and available for all operating systems.
3. NeoReader
Another one in our line-up of QR code scanners is NeoReader. It is powerful even though it only uses about 4 MB of your mobile device’s internal memory.
Upon opening the app, an animated splash screen will welcome you. There will also be an introductory text that will guide you through the basics of your first booting.
NeoReader can decode different standard code types (Data Matrix, QR codes, Aztec Codes, EAN, UPC, and Code 128) and QR codes. To start scanning, drag down the main menu and take a snap of your code. Like other scanners, it will open the link the QR code contains. You may also share its content on different platforms.
It also records previous scans so you can go back and check them whenever necessary. You can also sort the codes and their links in an organized manner. The only downside is it has ads above and below the screen.
4. Kaspersky’s QR Scanner
Kaspersky is exclusively scanning QR codes, no-frills. The best thing about this application is it fends off rogue QR codes which harbor dangerous links. It prevents you from going to a website where you can be exposed to malware or phishing scams.
Kaspersky’s QR Scanner has its browser, so you won’t need to decide where to access the content. However, the readability is relatively slow. But considering its virus scanning process, it will need some time to load the content.
If you want a code reader that offers protection against malware, then this is what you want to use.
5. Zapper
Zapper is a QR code reader that allows you to make payments on your mobile device. When you open the app, you must input your details and choose your payment method. They can process your payments safely by keeping your card details encrypted.
Aside from a QR scanner, you may also be interested in a QR code generator. Try it now! FormBot creates online forms which you can link out to a QR code. It allows users to quickly and conveniently get to your online form instead of having to input a long URL.