EAN-13, Code 128, PDF417 — Every Barcode Format You Need, One App That Reads Them All
Struggling to scan a barcode that other apps can't read? QR & Barcode Free Pro supports EAN-13, UPC-A, Code 128, PDF417, Aztec, Data Matrix, and every major barcode format in one free app.
You pull out your phone, point it at a barcode, and the scanner gives you a blank stare. If this has happened to you, the problem probably was not the barcode — it was the app.
Different industries use different barcode formats for good reason. Retail uses EAN-13 and UPC-A. Logistics relies on Code 128 and ITF. Government documents and boarding passes use PDF417. Healthcare uses Data Matrix. A scanner that only reads the basic formats is going to fail you at exactly the moment you need it.
QR & Barcode Free Pro was built to handle all of them.
Every Format, Actually Supported
Here is a breakdown of what the app reads — and why each format matters in real life:
EAN-13 and EAN-8 The barcodes you see on almost every product in a shop. EAN-13 has 13 digits, EAN-8 is a compact version for small packaging. If you want to look up a product price or check an item before buying, this is the format you need.
UPC-A and UPC-E The standard in North America. Grocery stores, pharmacies, big-box retailers — UPC codes are on virtually everything sold in the US. UPC-E is a compressed version used on small packages like lip balm or pocket-sized items.
Code 39 One of the oldest barcode formats, still heavily used in military, automotive, and healthcare supply chains. It can encode letters and numbers, which makes it versatile for internal labeling.
Code 128 Used in shipping, logistics, and e-commerce worldwide. FedEx, UPS, and DHL tracking labels often use Code 128. If you receive packages and want to track a barcode manually, this is the format you will encounter.
Code 93 A more compact version of Code 39 with built-in error checking. Used in Canada Post and some retail systems.
ITF (Interleaved 2 of 5) Found on outer packaging and cartons rather than individual items. Common in warehouses and distribution centers.
Codabar Used in blood banks, libraries, and some delivery systems. Older format but still very much in active use.
Data Matrix A 2D barcode used in electronics manufacturing and pharmaceutical packaging. Small enough to fit on a microchip label but holds a large amount of data.
PDF417 The barcode on most driver's licenses, passports (in some countries), boarding passes, and event tickets. It holds significantly more data than a standard 1D barcode.
Aztec Code Used by some transit authorities and airlines. You may have seen this on train or bus tickets. Designed to work even when partially damaged.
QR Code The most recognized 2D barcode globally. QR & Barcode Free Pro reads both standard and micro QR codes.
Flash and Gallery Support
Two features that often go overlooked but matter a lot in practice:
Flash toggle: Scanning in a dim restaurant, a warehouse, or a poorly lit corridor? One tap turns on the torch so the camera can read the code without straining.
Gallery scan: Found a barcode in a screenshot, a photo, or a document? Import it directly from your gallery. The app reads it without requiring you to point the camera at anything physical.
What Happens After You Scan
The app does not just show you a number. It interprets the content intelligently:
Scanning a product barcode shows the barcode number with a search option to find the product online
Scanning a PDF417 boarding pass shows the encoded flight or passenger information
Scanning a URL barcode opens it directly or gives you the option to copy or share
Every scan is saved to your history automatically, so you can refer back to it later without scanning again.
Final Thoughts
The difference between a good barcode scanner and a great one is coverage. QR & Barcode Free Pro covers twelve barcode and QR formats, works in low light, reads from images, and tells you what the data actually means — not just what it says.
If your current scanner ever fails on an unfamiliar format, switch to QR & Barcode Free Pro. You will not go back.
Download on Google Play — free, no in-app requirements to scan.
