Barcode
Generator
Generate EAN-13, CODE128, UPC-A, and more. Download as SVG or PNG instantly.
How Barcodes Work and Their Types
From the difference between EAN-13, UPC-A, and Code 128, to retail, logistics, and healthcare applications.
Barcode Types and Their Uses
Barcodes use the width of black and white bars to represent numbers and characters in a 1D symbol. First commercially used in 1974, they are now indispensable in retail, logistics, and healthcare worldwide. Many standards exist for different applications.
Major Barcode Standard Comparison
- EAN-13: 13 digits. International retail standard (Japan & Europe)
- UPC-A: 12 digits. North American retail standard. EAN-13 compatible with leading 0
- Code 128: Stores all alphanumeric + special chars. Best for logistics & manufacturing
- Code 39: 45 alphanumeric chars. Simple implementation without check digit
- ITF-14: 14 digits for logistics cases and shipping boxes
- QR Code: 2D code. Can store URLs and long text strings
Barcode Use Case Guide
EAN-13 / UPC-ACode 128 / ITF-14GS1-128 / DataMatrixCode 39 / Code 128ISBN-13 (EAN-13)Barcode Generation Best Practices
To generate and print barcodes that scan reliably, several technical requirements must be met. Quality control failures lead to frequent scan errors at POS and logistics systems.
Print Quality Requirements
- Print at minimum 300DPI (600DPI recommended)
- Maintain high contrast between bars and white background
- Include quiet zones (margins) on all sides
- Minimum bar width 0.25mm or more depending on printer
- Calculate GS1 check digits accurately when using GS1 standards
Barcode Verification
For commercial barcodes, verify the print quality with a barcode verifier to the ISO/IEC 15416 standard before mass production. Grade A is highest quality; below grade D, scanners may fail to read the code.
EAN-13 Check Digit Calculation
Sum of odd×1 and even×3 positions, 10s complement
Quiet Zone
EAN-13 requires minimum 7-module quiet zone on each side
Minimum Bar Size
EAN-13 nominal size: 37.29mm × 25.93mm (SC2)
Color Restrictions
Scanners use red light — red bars are invisible to scanners
Frequently Asked Questions
Which barcode symbology should I choose?
It depends on your use case. Use EAN-13 for retail products in Japan and Europe, UPC-A for North American retail, Code 128 for alphanumeric or logistics data, and Code 39 for simple uses that do not need a check digit. When in doubt, pick EAN-13 for retail items and Code 128 for internal tracking.
Is this barcode generator free?
Yes, it is completely free with no usage limits or watermarks. You can download every barcode you generate as an SVG or PNG file.
Is my data uploaded to a server?
No. Barcode generation runs entirely in your browser. The product numbers or text you enter are never uploaded to any server, so your data stays private.
Can I use the generated barcodes commercially?
Yes, you can use the generated barcode images commercially on product labels, inventory systems, and more. Note that EAN-13 and UPC-A numbers themselves should be officially obtained from GS1 for your own company.
What size should I print barcodes at?
The nominal EAN-13 size is 37.29mm x 25.93mm (SC2). Print at a minimum of 300DPI and keep quiet zones (margins) on both sides so POS scanners can read the code reliably.