When to Use QR Codes vs. Barcodes

While both QR codes and barcodes store data visually, they serve different purposes. Our **free barcode generator** is perfect for creating traditional linear barcodes like UPC and EAN for retail products, asset tracking, and inventory management. They are designed for rapid scanning and store simple numeric or alphanumeric data.

Our **free QR code generator**, on the other hand, creates two-dimensional codes that can store significantly more information. Use a QR code to embed website URLs, contact information (vCards), Wi-Fi network details, or plain text. They are ideal for marketing materials, event posters, business cards, and any situation where you want to bridge the physical and digital worlds by allowing users to scan a code with their smartphone.