This article invites you to explore the best POS systems equipped with barcode scanner capabilities. We cover leading solutions from five top providers: KORONA POS, Shopify POS, POS Nation, Lightspeed POS, and Square POS.
Read on to choose the best retail POS system with barcode scanning for your business.
Top Barcode POS Systems Compared
Solution | Key Features | Best For | Pricing |
 KORONA POS |
| Multi-location retail businesses and high-risk industries | Plans start at $59/mo |
 Shopify |
| E-commerce businesses looking to expand into physical retail | Starter plan is $5/mo; Basic retail plan starts at $89/mo |
 POS Nation |
| Specialized retailers like liquor stores or pet shops | Plans start at $69/mo |
 Lightspeed POS |
| Multi-location businesses, especially in fashion, home goods, and hospitality | Plans start at $89/mo |
 Square POS |
| Small- to medium-sized businesses seeking affordability | Free plan; Plus plan starts at $89/mo |
1. KORONA POS: Best Overall Retail POS System With Barcode Scanners
KORONA POS overview
KORONA POS caters to the specific needs of retail, QSR, and ticketing industries, offering features like advanced reporting and analytics, employee management, and customer loyalty programs.
The system supports both 1D and 2D barcode scanners. making it versatile for diverse retail environments. With its barcode functionality, KORONA POS enables accurate and quick transactions.
Pros
- Flat rate with no contracts
- 24/7 customer support
- Unlimited free trial
Cons
- Steeper learning curve
- No kitchen display system (KDS)
- Not ideal full-scale restaurants
Korona POS Pricing
Core
$59/mo
- eCommerce store
- Manager functions
- Promotions and gift cards
- Core checkout functionality
- Product database
Retail
$69/mo
- Stock management
- Barcode automation
- Real-time tracking
- Item combination
- Order automation
Add-ons
From $10 to $50
- KORONA Food
- KORONA Plus
- KORONA Invoicing
- KORONA Ticketing
- KORONA Franchise
- KORONA Integration
Key Features
Scanmatic 2D Scanner: This 2D scanner can scan a wide variety of barcodes, including QR codes, making it versatile for different retail environments. It’s known for its speed and accuracy, which help reduce checkout time and boost customer satisfaction.
P-Ranger Ticket and Inventory Scanner: The P-Ranger is a handheld device that serves dual purposes. It can be used for ticket scanning at events or venues or for inventory scanning. The device is user-friendly, with simple instructions for scanning tickets and checking their validity.
Optional Pistol Grip for P-Ranger: This accessory enhances the usability of the P-Ranger scanner. The pistol grip provides better ergonomics, making it easier to handle during long scanning sessions. This is particularly useful for inventory tasks or events where extended use is common.
1D Orbit Scanner: This scanner is tailored for 1D barcode scanning. It’s fast and reliable, for quick data capture and less chance of errors during the scanning process. This scanner is ideal for businesses that primarily deal with standard 1D barcodes.
RFID Scanners: KORONA POS also offers integrated RFID self-checkout technology. This enables customers to pay without the need for individual scanning or cashier assistance. Talk about a smooth and efficient checkout process!
Self-Service Kiosks: KORONA POS also provides self-service ticketing for events and attractions, enabling contactless, fast, and error-free transactions.
Pros
- Free Trial: KORONA POS offers an unlimited free trial, allowing potential customers to thoroughly test and evaluate the POS software’s features without any time constraints.
- 24/7 Customer Support: KORONA POS consistently receives high praise for its customer support, which is available 24/7 via phone, email, and chat across all platforms.
- Choose Your Processor: Additionally, KORONA POS is processing-agnostic, meaning it can integrate seamlessly with all leading payment processors. Choose the one that fits your budget.
Cons
- Learning curve: KORONA POS can be complex to learn because it has many in-depth features.
- No warehouse management: The system does not offer a solution for retailers that need warehouse management or shipping out to wholesale customers.
- No Kitchen Display System: KORONA POS doesn’t offer kitchen display system (KDS) options, nor does it feature complex tabling features. Therefore, it’s not the best option for full-scale restaurants.
Pricing
KORONA POS offers a range of pricing plans to cater to different business needs. Here are the main KORONA POS pricing tiers:
KORONA POS Core: $59 per month
- This package includes features such as unlimited users and sales, a customizable dashboard, core checkout payment functionality, a product database, various reporting options, an eCommerce store, manager functions, promotions, POS gift card features, and API access.
KORONA POS Retail: $69 per month
- This includes all the features in the Core Plan plus inventory counts, stock management, barcode automation, supplier interface integration, price and shelf labels, customer management, real-time tracking, item combination, and order automation.
Add-On Modules:
- KORONA Food: +$10 per terminal (for restaurants)
- KORONA Invoicing: +$10 per terminal (for businesses creating invoices)
- KORONA Ticketing: +$50 per gate (for admission-based businesses)
- KORONA Franchise: +$30 per franchise location
- KORONA Integration: +$45 per token (for integrating with other systems)
KORONA POS also provides an unlimited free trial, allowing businesses to test the system without risk. Subscriptions are month-to-month with no contracts.
For businesses needing more advanced features or customization, contact KORONA POS directly for a personalized quote.
Schedule a KORONA POS Demo Today
Speak with a product specialist and learn how KORONA POS can power your business needs.
2. Shopify POS: Best POS with Barcode Scanners For Online Retailers
SHOPIFY POS overview
Shopify offers various barcode scanner integrations. Some of the most popular include the Zebra 2D USB Barcode Scanner with a stand and Socket Mobile 2D Bluetooth.
The system also lets users generate and print barcodes, which is particularly useful for businesses that need to label their products.
Pros
- Multiple locations
- QR code ordering
Cons
- Limited inventory management features
- Poor customer service
SHOPIFY POS Pricing
Basic
$39/mo
- Up to 77% shipping discount
- 10 inventory locations
- 24/7 chat support
Shopify
$105/mo
- Multi-location management
- Advanced inventory management
- Lightspeed Live app
- Contactless ordering
Advanced
$399/mo
- Multiple revenue center support for hotels
- Raw API access
Plus
$2300/mo on a 3-year term
- Personalized software and hardware package
- Dedicated support team and customer success manager
Key Features
Zebra 2D USB Barcode Scanner with Stand (Android Only): This scanner is designed for Shopify POS on Android devices. It scans both 1D and 2D barcodes, including QR codes, and provides quick, accurate scans from 0.5 to 14.5 inches. With its ergonomic design, instant feedback, and free expedited shipping, it’s an ideal solution for merchants needing fast, dependable scanning.
Socket Mobile 2D Bluetooth Barcode Scanner (S720) This scanning tool uses both 1D and 2D barcodes on paper and screens. It offers fast, omnidirectional scanning, long-range Bluetooth connectivity (up to 33 feet), and a comfortable, ergonomic design with up to 16 hours of battery life. It’s compatible with iPads and Android tablets.
Socket Mobile 2D Bluetooth Barcode Scanner with Cradle (S720): This versatile, lightweight scanner reads both 1D and 2D barcodes on paper and screens. Its ergonomic design and long-lasting battery support a full work shift. The charging cradle keeps the scanner charged and ready for wire-free scanning of all varieties.
Pros
- Seamless integration with the Shopify platform: Shopify’s barcode scanners are designed to work with the Shopify platform, making it easy for merchants to manage their inventory and sales operations all from one place.
- Easy setup and use: Many users praise the ease of setup and use of Shopify’s barcode scanners. The scanners are plug-and-play and the software is intuitive, allowing merchants to start using them quickly.
Cons
- Cost: Shopify’s barcode scanners and POS hardware can be expensive, especially when considering the additional costs on top of the monthly subscription fees for the Shopify platform. This can be a significant investment for small businesses.
- Connectivity issues: A few users have reported connectivity issues or glitches with the scanners, which can disrupt operations and lead to frustration.
Pricing
In this section, we’ll discuss Shopify POS’s pricing structure for barcode scanners and their subscription tiers.
Barcode Scanner Pricing
- Zebra 2D USB Barcode Scanner with Stand (Android only): $199.00 or $49.75 bi-weekly for 2 months
- Socket Mobile 2D Bluetooth Barcode Scanner with Cradle (S720): $289.00 or $72.25 bi-weekly for 2 months
- Socket Mobile 2D Bluetooth Barcode Scanner (S720): $269.00 or $67.25 bi-weekly for 2 months
Subscription Tiers
Shopify offers three main subscription tiers with a 25% discount for retailers who pay yearly upfront.
Basic: $39 per month / $29 per month if paying yearly
- Processing Rates: 2.9% + 30¢ USD online / 2.6% + 10¢ USD in person – a 2% surcharge applies for third-party payment processing
- Recommended for: Solo entrepreneurs
- Features: Complete online store, global selling options, unified multi-channel inventory, and reporting analytics
Shopify: $105 per month / $79 per month if paying yearly
- Processing Rates: 2.7% + 30¢ USD online / 2.5% + 10¢ USD in person – 1% surcharge applies for third-party payment processing
- Recommended for: Small teams
- Features: All Basic features plus 5 additional staff login profiles and better shipping rates for eCommerce sales
Advanced: $399 per month / $299 per month if paying yearly
- Processing Rates: 2.5% + 30¢ USD online / 2.4% + 10¢ USD in person – 0.6% surcharge applies for third-party payment processing
- Recommended for: Scaling businesses
- Features: All Shopify features plus enhanced customer support, discounted shipping insurance, up to 15 employee login profiles, Advanced POS with faster checkout capacity, and custom reporting and analytics
Plus: $2,300 per month
- Processing Rates: Negotiated – a 0.2% surcharge applies for third-party payment processing.
- Recommended for: Complex businesses
- Features: All Advanced features plus enterprise-level tools, up to 200 inventory locations, unlimited staff login accounts, fully customizable checkout with forty times capacity, and tools for wholesale and B2B selling
Add-Ons: POS Pro Location: +$89 per month per location
3. POS Nation: Best POS System For Specialized Retailers
POS nation overview
POS Nation is recognized as a top supplier of POS software with great analytics and reporting features. It offers different types of barcode scanners, including the age verification scanner and barcode laser scanner.
Pros
- Good customer support
- Age verification
- Great reporting features
Cons
- Not RACS-compliant
- Not too many software integrations
POS Nation Pricing
Flex Monthly
$149/mo
- Lifetime warranty
- 24/7 support
Freedom Plan
$999/mo
- 1-year hardware warranty
- Requires POS Nation processing agreement
- Includes free PIN pad
- No long-term contracts
Custom Builds
Custom-built POS
- Multiple payment options in the custom-build POS
- New customers get a one-time discount code
- Requires processing agreement
Key Features
Bluetooth Barcode Scanner with iPhone Clip: This wireless scanner can read 1D and 2D barcodes. It comes with a clip that can be attached to an iPhone, making it a hyper-portable barcode scanner.
Age verification scanner: The age verification scanner from POS Nation is designed to help businesses comply with age-restricted sales laws by ensuring that customers purchasing items such as alcohol, tobacco, or other age-regulated products meet the minimum age requirements.
Wireless 2D Barcode Scanner: This is a wireless scanner that can read 1D and 2D barcodes.
Age verification presentation-style scanner: This wired scanner can read 1D and 2D barcodes and is specifically designed for age verification. It is a presentation-style scanner, which means that it can be placed on a counter, and the barcode can be scanned by holding it up to the scanner.
Bluetooth unitech Scanner: This device offers fast, reliable scanning with a lightweight design and Bluetooth compatibility. It captures barcodes from up to 6 inches away, scanning at 240 scans per second, and boasts a 40-foot Bluetooth range for seamless connectivity.
Barcode laser scanner: This is a wired scanner that can read 1D barcodes. It is handheld and wireless for ultimate convenience.
Pros
- Scalability and Customization: POS Nation accommodates businesses of various sizes. For example, smoke shops can select a plan with the necessary features and expand as their business grows.
- Robust Reporting Features: POS Nation provides over 55 prebuilt reports with options for customization. Reports can cover virtually every aspect of your business and can be exported to Excel for more detailed analysis.
Cons
- Customer Support Issues: Reviews on well-known platforms and user forums indicate that customer support is a weak point for POS Nation.
- Emphasis on Hardware Sales: POS Nation frequently bundles its POS software with hardware purchases. While this can be convenient, it might not be the most cost-effective choice if you already own compatible hardware. Consider using your existing equipment to avoid unnecessary hardware expenses.
Pricing
Let’s break down POS Nation’s pricing structure for barcode scanners and their subscription tiers.
- Age verification scanner of POS Nation: $ 199.99
- Wireless 2D Barcode Scanner: $269.00
- Bluetooth Barcode Scanner with iPhone Clip: $99.99
- Bluetooth scanner: $189.00
- Barcode laser scanner: $99.99
- Age verification presentation-style scanner: $179.99
Subscription tiers
Flex Monthly: $149/mo
- Lifetime warranty
- 24/7 supports
Freedom Plan: $999/mo
- Year hardware warranty
- Requires POS nation processing agreement – includes free PIN pad
- No long-term contracts
Custom Builds: Custom-Built POS
- Multiple payment options in the custom-build POS
- New customers get a one-time discount code
- Requires processing agreement
4. Lightspeed POS: Best POS System For Retailers in Fashion, Home Goods, and Hospitality
Lightspeed Retail overview
Lightspeed Retail is a strong barcode scanner solution for matrix-serialized businesses. It facilitates inventory management and customer profiles.
According to some Lightspeed POS reviews, the software is ideal for matrix-sized businesses like clothing stores and jewelry stores.
Pros
- Great reporting features
- Easy user-friendly interface
- Specific inventory features for clothing stores
Cons
- Poor customer support
- Not much flexibility in payment processing
Lightspeed Retail Pricing
Basic
$109/mo
- Register
- Free training and onboarding resources
- Dedicated account manager
Core
$179/mo
- Lightspeed B2B
- Accounting
- eCommerce
Plus
$289/mo
- Omnichannel loyalty
- Advanced reporting
Key Features
Zebra DS2200 Series barcode scanner: This scanner, available in both corded (DS2208) and cordless (DS2278) models, features fast, accurate 1D and 2D barcode scanning. The DS2278 offers Bluetooth connectivity and a long-lasting battery. The DS2200 Series is a cost-effective choice for retail and hospitality.
Zebra CS6080 barcode scanner: The Zebra CS6080 barcode scanner connects to your iPad via Bluetooth and lets you scan your items wirelessly. It’s compatible with 1D and 2D barcodes. However, model number CS6080 SR40004VZWW is not compatible with MFi (made for iOS) and will not work on iOS.
Zebra CS4070 barcode scanner: The Zebra CS4070 barcode scanner connects to your iPad via Bluetooth and allows you to scan your items wirelessly. It’s compatible with 1D and 2D barcodes.
Pros
- Integration capabilities: It integrates with numerous third-party applications, including accounting software, eCommerce platforms, marketing tools, and payment processors.
- Feature-rich: Lightspeed offers a comprehensive suite of features, including inventory management, customer relationship management (CRM), omnichannel selling (selling across multiple channels), and reporting.
- Scalability: Lightspeed can be scaled to fit the needs of businesses of all sizes, from single-location stores to multi-location chains. This makes it a good option for businesses that are planning to grow.
Cons
- Cost: Lightspeed POS is relatively expensive compared to other POS systems, especially for small businesses. It has a monthly subscription fee, and additional costs can accrue from add-ons and integrations.
- Limited flexibility in payment processing: Unlike KORONA POS, you won’t be able to choose another payment processor other than the ones provided by Lightspeed.
- Learning Curve: The extensive feature set can result in a steep learning curve for some users.
- Poor customer service: Some customers report that services do not work as promised and that Lightspeed can fail to provide support or respond to issues after the sale.
Pricing
Lightspeed’s pricing is not publicly listed, so you may need to contact their sales team for details.
However, here is the general subscription pricing structure for Lightspeed Retail:
- The Basic plan costs $109 per month and includes a fundamental retail point-of-sale system with basic inventory tracking.
- The Core plan is $179 per month and includes advanced accounting features and tools for integrating an eCommerce platform.
- The Plus plan, available at $289 per month, offers customer loyalty program features and advanced analytical reporting functionalities.
Do you have trouble getting your POS customer service on the phone?
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5. Square POS: Best Barcode Scanner POS For Small Businesses
Square POS overview
The Square POS system doesn’t come with a built-in barcode scanner. However, it supports a variety of third-party scanners that can connect to your Square hardware to improve checkout speed and accuracy.
Pros
- Great customer support
- Easy to use
- Device agnostic
Cons
- Not great reporting features
- No phone app
- No refund without a card present or offer partial refunds
SQUARE POS Pricing
Square Retail
From $0/mo to custom pricing
- Unlimited calendars
- Time zone–friendly booking
- Booking integrations for websites
Square Restaurant
From $0/mo to custom pricing
- Manage multiple locations
- Class booking
- Processing time
Square Appointments
From $0/mo to 69$/mo
- Square Team Plus
- Square Shifts Plus
- Time tracking
- Labor vs. sales reporting
Key Features
2D Corded Barcode Scanner: The Voyager XP scanner includes 1D and 2D barcode reading with an extended scan distance. It’s engineered to withstand 30 drops at 1.8m and 1,000 tumbles.
Bluetooth Bar Code Scanner: This lightweight and wireless bar code scanner connects to your iPad iPhone via Bluetooth. It can be used with Square Point of Sale or Square for Retail.
2D Cordless Barcode Scanner: The Voyager XP 1472g scanner reads 1D and 2D barcodes with an extended scan distance. This one is cordless for added convenience and ergonomics.
2D Hands-free Barcode Scanner: The Honeywell Genesis XP 7680g is a hands-free scanner. It’s compact and modern, taking up minimal counter space. A 360-color LED ring scans the target area, offering an intuitive experience for employees and customers.
Pros
- Mobile friendly: Square also offers a mobile app that allows you to manage your business on the go. With the app, you can view appointments, process payments, or update customer details from anywhere.
- App marketplace: Square has an App Marketplace that allows business owners to connect other helpful tools and services to their Square POS system. These include payroll, marketing automation, and customer engagement apps.
- Intuitive and easy to use: The system is designed to be easy to use and set up. The interface is intuitive, making it simple for employees with varying technical skills to learn and use the system quickly.
Cons
- Transaction fees: While transparent, Square’s processing fees can eat into profits. Businesses with higher transaction volumes will see a more noteworthy price hike. Consider the fee structure against your average transaction value to determine cost-effectiveness.
- Poor customer support: It is very difficult to contact customer service, and there is also a lack of support and protection when it comes to credit card charges disputes and chargebacks.
Pricing
Square POS for retail offers a range of pricing options to cater to different business needs. Here’s a quick overview:
1️⃣ Square POS Retail
Software Costs:
- Free Plan: 0$; Basic POS features with no monthly fee.
- Plus Plan: $89 per month, per location. It’s ideal for expanding businesses looking for advanced inventory tools, barcode label printing, COGS reports, and more.
- Premium: Custom pricing This plan is for established businesses. It helps you scale, fits your exact needs, and includes one-on-one onboarding support.
2️⃣ Square POS Restaurants
Square POS for restaurants offers a variety of pricing plans and hardware options to suit different business needs. Here’s a quick overview:
Software Costs:
- Free Plan: Basic POS features with no monthly fee
- Plus Plan: Advanced features for $29 per month, per location
- Premium Plan: Custom pricing for businesses needing enterprise-level features and support
3️⃣ Square POS for Appointements
Square POS for Appointments offers several pricing tiers designed to meet the needs of businesses providing services by appointment. Here’s a quick overview:
Software Costs:
- Free Plan: For individuals, includes basic appointment scheduling and POS features with no monthly fee
- Plus Plan: $29 per month for 2-5 staff members, including advanced scheduling features
- Premium Plan: $69 per month for 6-10 staff members, including all advanced features and custom options for more than 10 staff members
Payment Processing Fees:
- In-Person Transactions: 2.6% + 10¢ per transaction
- Online Transactions: 2.9% + 30¢ per transaction
- Manual Keyed-in Transactions: 3.5% + 15¢ per transaction
Hardware Costs:
- Square Reader for Magstripe: The first reader is free
- Square Reader for Contactless and Chip (2nd generation): $59
- Square Stand (2nd Gen): $149 or $14/mo over 12 months
- Square Terminal: $299 or $27/mo over 12 months
- Square Register: $799 or $39/mo over 24 months
How To Choose a POS System With a Barcode Scanner?
Here are some key factors to consider when selecting a POS system with a barcode scanner:
- Compatibility: Ensure that the POS system you choose supports the barcode scanner you plan to use or comes bundled with a compatible scanner. Different systems may work with specific types of scanners, so check the compatibility before making a purchase.
- Scanning capabilities: Evaluate the barcode scanner’s scanning capabilities. Consider factors such as scanning speed, accuracy, and the ability to read different types of barcodes (1D, 2D, QR codes, etc.). Faster and more accurate scanners can significantly improve checkout efficiency.
- Connectivity: Determine whether you need a wired or wireless barcode scanner. Wireless scanners offer more flexibility and mobility but may require additional setup or have battery life concerns.
- Integration: Check if the POS system integrates with other software or applications you use, such as accounting software, eCommerce platforms, or customer relationship management (CRM) tools. This integration can streamline your business operations and data management.
- Cost: Compare the costs of different POS systems and barcode scanners. Factor in not only the initial purchase price but also ongoing costs like software subscriptions, maintenance fees, and potential POS hardware upgrades or replacements. Make also sure you understand and avoid earlier termination fees contracts.
Inventory management headache?
KORONA POS makes stock control easy. Automate tasks and get a clear picture of your entire inventory.
What Are Barcodes?
Barcodes are visual representations of data, typically in the form of parallel lines or squares, that can be scanned by barcode scanners. They store information such as product details, prices, and inventory numbers.
Barcodes are widely used in retail, logistics, and inventory management to improve efficiency in tracking inventory and making transactions.
How Do Barcodes and Scanners Work?
Barcodes encode data into a series of lines or squares, which barcode scanners read using light sensors. When the scanner shines light on the barcode, the dark and light areas reflect differently, allowing the scanner to decode the pattern into readable information. This data is then sent to the POS system for processing.
Benefits of a Barcode Scanner With Your POS
- Quicker Checkouts: Barcodes speed up the checkout process by scanning items quickly.
- Fewer Mistakes: Barcodes help users avoid errors with checkout and inventory.
- Better Inventory Management: Barcodes keep stock levels up-to-date automatically.
- Simplified Workflows: Barcodes make data entry easier and lessen training time.
- Saves Money: Barcodes reduce mistakes and improve overall efficiency.
Ready to get the POS system and barcode scanner your store deserves?
Build a better business with a customizable POS that fits your needs – without paying the price for custom development.
Best POS System With Barcode Scanner: Wrapping Up
In conclusion, choosing the best POS system with a barcode scanner comes down to your business needs and how you want to make life easier as a retailer. Whether you’re looking for integrations, inventory management, or simplicity, KORONA POS has the right tools to support your goals.
Take the next step and schedule a demo with KORONA POS to see how it can set your business up for success.
Best Barcode Scanning POS System FAQs
How does the barcode scanner work in a POS System?
A barcode scanner in a POS system reads the unique barcodes on products using laser or imaging technology. The scanner then translates the data into digital information that the POS software can process. This process enables quick and accurate product identification, price lookup, and inventory management.
Which type of business might benefit from a barcode scanner in a POS system?
Retail stores, supermarkets, and pharmacies can benefit greatly from a barcode scanner in a POS system, as it streamlines the checkout process and improves inventory accuracy. Additionally, warehouses and manufacturing businesses can use barcode scanning to track inventory and manage stock levels efficiently.
