Choosing the right barcode generator can streamline inventory management, reduce human error, and simplify labeling workflows. Whether you’re printing UPCs for retail products or QR codes and barcodes for tracking assets or equipment, the best barcode generators make it easy to create, customize, and scan barcodes without requiring specialized equipment or software.
Below, we’ll compare five top barcode generators, highlight essential capabilities to look for, and share free options to get started. We’ll also show how Sortly’s built-in barcode and QR code capabilities help both small and large businesses save time and money through smarter barcode generation.
5 Best Barcode Generators
Sortly
For businesses looking for simple, convenient barcode generation, look no further than Sortly—an all-in-one solution for barcoding and inventory management. Unlike other options, Sortly allows you to scan barcodes and QR codes directly from the app, on any smart device. It’s easy to create and print custom barcode and QR labels that automatically sync with your inventory. If you’re looking for a barcode inventory system that gives your team a fast, intuitive way to barcode items without investing in clunky equipment or extra software, Sortly is a terrific option.
Key features and benefits
- Create barcodes and QR codes instantly. Save time and reduce hassle by eliminating manual data entry and streamlining inventory counts.
- Scan barcodes from any device, including smartphones, tablets, or third-party barcode scanners.
- Seamlessly integrate barcode data with your inventory management. With Sortly, your barcode scanning and inventory management are part of the same easy app, leading to real-time accuracy without needing separate systems.
- Print labels using standard printers or export barcode images (PNG, SVG). Sortly lets you use the standard printers you already own—no need to invest in specialized thermal label makers.
- Customize labels with item details, logos, or QR code data.
- Generate barcodes offline for maximum convenience and in bulk for large labeling projects to save even more time.
Limitations
- Some highly advanced barcode symbologies (e.g., PDF417, Data Matrix) not supported
- Best suited for inventory labeling, not for POS or retail packaging
Sortly is trusted by over 20,000 businesses to manage inventory, assets, and materials, helping them save time and money through better inventory control. In particular, our customers love our barcoding and QR coding capabilities and rely on them in their daily inventory processes. In 2024, our customers scanned over 532,000 barcodes & QR codes! That’s a lot of time and money saved.
Sortly’s value is apparent in the hundreds of positive reviews from satisfied customers. We hold average ratings of 4.5 out of 5 stars on Capterra, Software Advice, and GetApp. And, in 2025, Sortly was recognized by Gartner Digital Markets, earning shortlist placements for both Inventory Management and IT Asset Management software.
[Include Free Ebook: The Complete Guide to Barcoding Your Inventory]
LabelJoy
LabelJoy is a desktop barcode software that supports a wide range of symbologies and label formats. It’s ideal for users who need advanced customization and control over label design.
Key features and benefits
- Supports over 20 barcode types including UPC-A, EAN-13, Code 128, and QR codes
- WYSIWYG label design with drag-and-drop editing
- Integrates with Excel and other databases for bulk barcode generation
- Print preview and resolution control for high-quality output
Limitations
- Requires software download and installation
- Not cloud-based and has limited collaboration features
Barcode Studio
Barcode Studio by TEC-IT is a professional barcode maker for generating high-resolution barcode images for packaging, marketing, and documentation.
Key features and benefits
- Supports 1D and 2D barcodes, including ISBN, GTIN, and Data Matrix
- Export barcode images in multiple formats (PNG, SVG, EPS)
- Customize barcode size, color, and font
- Batch generation from Excel or CSV files
Limitations
- No inventory management or scanning features
- Geared toward design and documentation—not operational workflows
TEKLYNX
TEKLYNX offers enterprise-grade barcode software for manufacturing, logistics, and retail. It’s built for complex labeling environments with compliance and automation needs.
Key features and benefits
- Supports hundreds of barcode formats and label templates
- Integrates with ERP systems and industrial printers
- Automation tools for high-volume printing
- Compliance labeling for regulated industries
Limitations
- Requires technical setup and training
- Overbuilt for small businesses or simple labeling needs
ZebraDesigner
ZebraDesigner is a barcode label design tool from Zebra Technologies, primarily used with Zebra label printers.
Key features and benefits
- Optimized for Zebra printers and industrial labeling
- Supports barcode formats including Code 39, Interleaved 2 of 5, and UPC codes
- Includes label templates and printer-specific settings
Limitations
- Requires Zebra hardware
- Not a standalone barcode generator—limited flexibility
While other platforms offer barcode generation, Sortly provides a seamless, all-in-one experience, enabling any team to start labeling immediately without extra software or setup.
Best Free Barcode Generators
Looking for a free barcode generator? Here are a few options to explore. These tools offer basic functionality for small teams or one-off projects, with varying levels of customization and export support. If your business is not ready for an investment in barcode generation right now, these free tools are a great option.
- Sortly – Sortly is a robust, all-in-one inventory platform that includes in-app barcode and QR code scanning on its entry-level options.
- TEC-IT Online Barcode Generator – Supports multiple formats and export options.
- LabelFlow Barcode Generator – Generate basic barcodes with this simple, web-based tool.
- QRCode Monkey – Customize your QR codes with logos and more with this free barcode generator.
Essential Capabilities of the Best Barcode Generators
Not all barcode generators are created equal. The most effective tools go beyond basic label creation to support your business’s actual workflows, from offline access and mobile scanning to customization and inventory integration. Whether you’re managing thousands of assets or labeling a few shelves, these capabilities can make or break your barcoding strategy.
Create barcodes quickly and easily
Speed and simplicity are key when labeling inventory at scale. A good barcode generator should minimize setup time, reduce training needs, and allow users to create barcodes in just a few clicks. This is especially important for small businesses or teams without dedicated IT support. Sortly’s intuitive interface lets users create barcodes instantly, helping teams stay focused on inventory—not software.
Print and scan barcodes on mobile devices
Mobile compatibility is no longer optional. Teams need to print and scan barcodes using smartphones or tablets to stay agile and responsive. Whether you’re checking stock in a storeroom or tagging assets in the field, mobile access improves accuracy and efficiency. Sortly supports mobile scanning and printing, making it easy to manage inventory from anywhere.
Customize barcodes
Customization helps tailor barcodes to your workflow. Whether you need to include item names, categories, or QR code data, flexible label design improves clarity and traceability. It also allows businesses to align barcodes with branding or operational standards. Sortly enables users to customize barcode labels with relevant item details, logos, and formatting options.
Seamlessly integrate barcodes with your inventory
Barcode data should do more than sit on a label: it should connect directly to your inventory system. Integration ensures that every scan updates item records in real time, reducing errors and improving visibility. Sortly links each barcode to its corresponding inventory item, enabling seamless tracking and automatic updates across your system.
Generate barcodes offline
Offline functionality is often overlooked, but it’s essential for teams working in warehouses, job sites, or remote locations where internet access is limited or unreliable. Without offline access, labeling workflows can stall, leading to delays and data gaps. A barcode generator that works offline ensures continuity, even in low-connectivity environments. Sortly allows users to generate and print barcodes without an internet connection, keeping inventory operations moving no matter where work happens.
Try Sortly’s Barcode Generator Today
Whether you’re labeling tools, tracking assets, or organizing stockrooms, Sortly’s barcode generator makes it easy to create professional labels that work with your existing equipment. With mobile scanning, offline access, and seamless inventory integration, Sortly helps teams label smarter without extra software or training.
Start your free trial today and see how Sortly simplifies barcoding for companies of every shape and size, from small businesses to large teams.
