Difference Between Barcode and QR code
By BYJU'S Exam Prep
Updated on: September 25th, 2023
Difference Between Barcode and QR code: Barcodes and QR codes are two types of barcodes that can be used to store different kinds of information. The major difference between Barcode and QR code is that the Barcode can store data only in one dimension while the QR code can store data in two dimensions.
The two technologies have evolved over time, but there are still some differences between them that make each one better suited for certain uses than others. Here, we will first see the difference between Barcode and QR code thereafter we will see what is Barcode and QR code in brief.
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Difference Between Barcode and QR code
Both barcodes and QR codes are machine-readable representations of information. They can be used to store data, but they also serve as a way for people to access that information quickly and easily. The difference between Barcode and QR code is mentioned in the table provided below:
Key Differences Between Barcode and QR code
| Barcode | QR Code |
| Norman Woodland developed barcodes. | QR code was developed by Masahiro Hara. |
| Storage of data is less. | Storage of data is higher than Barcode. |
| Technology used – Morse code | Technology used – Morse code |
| Data is stored horizontally. | Data is stored horizontally as well as vertically. |
| Developed in 1952. | Developed in 1994. |
| The only single type exists. | Types – 2(i.e., 1-D and 2-D) |
| Sight is required to access. | Sight is required to access. |
What is a Barcode?
Barcode is a machine-readable representation of information, which can be read by barcode scanners or computer programs to extract relevant information from an image. It uses simple black-and-white blocks to encode text and numbers, usually with a fixed-size rectangle printed on paper stock or film stock.
The encoded information may then be used by computers to perform tasks like reading data from cards into databases and performing mathematical calculations based on the encoded values stored on cards. Barcodes are used to store information like price, product type, product identification numbers, etc.
What is a QR code?
QR codes were originally developed by the Japanese company Denso Wave Inc., which wanted to create an efficient way for consumers to search for products on the internet. The idea was that people would use their smartphones to scan a quick response (QR) code containing relevant product information onto their device’s screen, giving instant results. This has since become one of the most popular ways for companies like Amazon or Google Shopping Services LLC.
A QR code is a 2-dimensional matrix code that has been designed to be read by smartphones; this makes it accessible through any smartphone application like Facebook Messenger or Gmail. It’s typically used in marketing & advertising campaigns but also in retail stores where customers can scan it using their phone cameras to access product details on their mobile devices without having any direct contact with them.
