How to generate a barcode
Type the number or text you want encoded, choose a format, and the preview updates live. Click "Download barcode" to save it as a PNG. CODE128 accepts any text and is the safest default if you're not sure which format you need; EAN-13, UPC, and ITF-14 are strict numeric formats used for retail and shipping barcodes, requiring an exact digit count.
A barcode is the right tool when you need a compact, widely-scannable code for a numeric product ID, inventory item, or shipment reference — the format nearly every retail scanner and inventory system is built around. For a link, contact card, or any longer piece of text, a QR code fits far more data in a scannable code.
What's the difference between a barcode and a QR code?
A traditional barcode (like CODE128, EAN-13, or UPC) stores a short string, usually numbers, in a single row of lines of varying width — the format most retail products and inventory systems use. A QR code is a 2D grid that can store far more data (a full URL, contact details, or a longer message) and is read by a camera-based scanner rather than a laser or standard barcode scanner. Use a barcode for inventory/retail-style numeric codes; use a QR code for links or richer data.
Which barcode format should I use?
CODE128 is the most flexible — it encodes any text or number and is widely supported, a safe default if you're not sure. EAN-13 and UPC are the standard formats for retail product barcodes and require an exact digit count (13 and 12 digits respectively). CODE39 is common in logistics and inventory systems and supports letters as well as numbers.
Why does my EAN-13 or UPC code show an error?
EAN-13 requires exactly 12 or 13 digits, and UPC requires exactly 11 or 12 digits — these formats include a checksum digit and don't accept letters or the wrong digit count. If your code doesn't fit that exact pattern, switch to CODE128, which accepts any text.
Is my barcode data uploaded anywhere?
No — the barcode is generated entirely in your browser. Whatever text or number you enter never leaves your device.