Wired vs. wireless handheld scanners
Whether you run a store, warehouse or work in logistics, a reliable hand scanner is an essential tool to ensure efficiency and accuracy in your daily operations.
Whether you run a store, warehouse or work in logistics, a reliable handheld scanner is an essential tool to ensure efficiency and accuracy in your daily operations. At Delfi Technologies, we’ve been providing quality solutions since 1988 and offer a wide range of barcode scanners to cover all needs – from flexible wireless handheld scanners to robust wired models.
With years of experience, we understand what it takes to optimize workflows and minimize errors. We only offer products from renowned manufacturers and provide you with professional advice so you always find the right solution for your business.
In this article, we’ll help you choose between a wireless hand scanner and a wired model so you can make the best choice based on your specific needs and work environment.
What is a wireless hand scanner?
A wireless wireless handheld scanner gives you the freedom to move around while scanning goods or products.
Wireless handheld scanners offer greater freedom of movement as they are not restricted by cables. This makes them ideal for large warehouses or retail environments where mobility is essential. With long battery life and lightweight design, workers can easily move around and scan items without interruption. It typically connects via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi and can reach up to several meters from the base station or your device.
Benefits of wireless handheld scanners:
- Flexibility and mobility: Perfect for large warehouses or stores where you need to scan products that are not always within reach of a computer.
- Easy connectivity: Most wireless scanners are plug & play and connect quickly via Bluetooth to computers, tablets or handheld terminals.
- Fewer restrictions: No cables means you can work more efficiently without having to worry about wires.
Consider:
- Battery life: Make sure your scanner has enough battery life for a full working day.
- Range: Check that the wireless range covers your workspace.
What is a wired hand scanner?
A wired hand scanner connects directly to your computer or POS system via a USB cable. It’s ideal for workstations where mobility is not required.
Wireless Handheld Scanners
Wireless handheld scanners offer greater freedom of movement as they are not restricted by cables. This makes them ideal for large warehouses or retail environments where mobility is essential. With long battery life and lightweight design, workers can easily move around and scan items without interruption.
Benefits of wired handheld scanners:
- Stable and reliable connection: No risk of signal interruption or interference.
- No battery issues: No need to worry about charging or battery life.
- Plug & Play connection: Plug in the scanner and you’re ready to work right away.
Consider:
- Battery life: Make sure your scanner has enough battery life for a full working day.
- Range: Check that the wireless range covers your workspace.
Explore our range of wireless barcode scanners: Wireless Barcode Scanners
Which hand scanner should you choose?
The choice between a wireless and a wired hand scanner depends on your work environment and your specific needs:
- Choose a wireless hand scanner if:
- You work in a warehouse or store where mobility is important.
- You need to scan items from different positions and distances.
- You want flexibility without the constraints of cables.
- Choose a wired hand scanner if:
- You work at a fixed workstation, such as a POS system.
- You want a stable and constant connection.
- Battery life and charging should not be a concern.
For further advice and a wide selection of handheld scanners, visit our main barcode scanner category.
1D vs. 2D scanning
When choosing a hand scanner, it’s important to consider whether you need to scan 1D or 2D barcodes.
1D barcodes are the traditional linear barcodes that typically contain 8-15 characters. These codes are common on products in retail and inventory management.
2D barcodes, such as QR codes, can contain up to 2000 characters and store data both horizontally and vertically. This enables them to hold more complex information, including images, URLs and other binary data. To scan 2D barcodes, a 2D barcode scanner is required, while 1D scanners can only read 1D codes.
Benefits of 2D barcodes:
- Larger data capacity: Can hold significantly more information than 1D codes.
- Compact size: Can be printed in smaller dimensions without losing readability.
- Error correction: Many 2D codes have built-in error correction, making them readable even if they are partially damaged.
Recommended scanners:
- DelfiScan M81: A wireless scanner that can read both 1D and 2D barcodes, ideal for various industries such as warehouse, retail and healthcare.
- DelfiScan C91: A wired scanner with advanced setup options and ergonomic design that efficiently reads both 1D and 2D codes.
For a deeper understanding of the differences between 1D and 2D barcodes and guidance on choosing the right scanner, visit our barcode guide.
Find Your Wireless Hand Scanner at Delfi Today
A wireless handheld scanner can make a world of difference to your business efficiency. Whether you work in a warehouse, store or logistics, a wireless solution gives you the freedom to work quickly and flexibly without cumbersome cables. If your needs are more stationary, a wired handheld scanner can still be a stable and reliable solution.
At Delfi Technologies, you’ll find a wide range of handheld scanners to match your needs. We are ready with expertise and advice to help you choose the right solution.
Contact us today via our contact form and find the perfect wireless hand scanner for your business!