Best Inventory Scanners

A mobile computer (also called Personal Digital Assistant – PDA) barcode scanner is a device that allows you to read the markings previously applied to the goods (actually, the barcode) and then sends the values ​​of the barcode to the computer. The scanner can independently supplement the barcode’s value with special service symbols for the correct operation of your trading program. This kind of barcode scanner is necessary for many trade automation tasks, such as grocery store automation.

Female Warehouse Worker Taking Inventory_

Core Features Of Mobile Computer Scanners

Barcode scanners are divided into functional features:

  • Type of scanning device.
  • Mobility of performance.
  • Durability and flexibility in working conditions.

While mobile computers are not the cheapest, far from it, they remain among the most reliable scanners. They have the highest fidelity and also have the ability to work in a wide temperature range. These ensure you get your work done extremely fast.

Things To Check Before You Buy A Mobile Computer Scanner

Recognition Ability

Trust me, I’ve been there, and it is disappointing to invest a couple of hundred bucks on a mediocre machine that barely gets the job done. To avoid this, you’ll need to look beyond the product description. Look out for scanners capable of reading 1D and 2D barcodes while delivering ultra-fast motion tolerance along with the ability to read poorly printed/damaged barcodes.

Mobile Computer Wireless Connectivity

Anything less than 4G LTE internet connectivity is not only a mediocre device, and with 5G around the corner, we might want to settle for more. While some models require regular maintenance (e.g., dust cleaning), we have shortlisted the best mobile computers you could invest in without fear in this article.

Mobile Computer – The Operating System

Before purchasing a mobile computer, consider the operating system. As of now, the two significant players include iOS on iPad 2 and Android for the rest. Several tablets also run on MW 7, which does a far better job than other windows programs. But overall, you preferably want an Android or Apple iOS. But be aware, with Windows 7, you can install nearly every application available; the choices are limited, however, for both iOS and Android. It would help if you also considered which OS will allow you to work with spreadsheets, documents, presentations, PowerPoint files, and Excel. 

Mobile Computer – Keyboard, Mouse, and Stylus

If you type a lot, you’ll want to consider purchasing a mouse and a stylus. These tools can make working on a small PC a lot easier and faster. Most of the newer mobile PCs have a miniature USB port or Bluetooth for connectivity. There are also wireless tools that you can purchase that will make your job easier.

Mobile Computer – Digital Pens

The majority of iPads have a capacitive touchscreen that responds to your finger. But if you plan to draw or make handwritten notes, consider a digital pen. The active digital pen can make your job easier and increase the functionality of your mobile PC.

Mobile Computer – Wifi

If you are using your tablet for business, make sure it has wifi. Some of the newer tablet models have wireless broadband, which requires a subscription. To get the maximum speed, go with a tablet with 4G.

Mobile Computer – Ports & Camera

Most tablets have at least one USB port, but you may want to hook on a digital camera, printer, or download files for business needs- and it may help to have a second USB port. If you plan to use your tablet to make presentations, then consider one with an HDMI outlet, or you may even use an adapter. If you plan to have teleconferences, you need a forward-facing camera with at least 1.3 MP.

Mobile Computer – Storage & Security

Most tablets have minimal storage space, so make sure your tablet allows you to expand the capacity via a micro SDHC card slot. Every business tablet must have security and data encryption features. Most tablets now come with data encryption, but some androids do not.  A mobile tablet can help meet most of your business needs, but the size will limit some functionality. You will have to make sure that the tablet can meet the needs of your business before you purchase it. If money is not an issue, then either an android or an iPad should serve you well


The Android Handheld Data Terminal Mobile Computer features a Quad-core 1.45GHz CPU Cortex-A53 allowing you to perform several tasks. It’s a 5.2 “FHD 1920 screen with multi-touch panel Corning Gorilla Glass, both durable and easy to operate with gloves or wet hands. Additionally, the Built-in Zebra imager scan engine features exceptional 1D 2D and QR Barcode reading. It provides outstanding results on broken/blurred barcodes. 

  • Battery operated
  • Connectivity via wireless and Bluetooth 
  • Multi-touch panel.
  • It comes with a lithium battery- 12 hour working time
  • The processor is Quad Core
  • 5.2-inch screen
  • The screen has gorilla glass- this means it is tough and durable
  • Android OS
  • 13 MP camera
  • Very fast and reliable
  • Built-in zebra imager scan engine
  • Scans 1D, 2D, and Qr barcodes
  • SDK is an option
  • Dual-band wifi
  • Supports 4G and WCDMA
  • Rugged and built to last
  • Suitable for working in any environment
  • Weighs 930 g
  • It has a slot for a SIM card -meaning you can use it as a phone
  • Has two microphones
  • Has many sensors
  • Do not need any software
  • You can upgrade the device

This Android has a 5/5 rating. An excellent handheld PC scanner, This unit can scan all types of barcodes. This device also has a unique phone feature. There is no need for any extra software to operate the machine; you simply plug and play. It has two microphones, and you can upgrade the device. The gorilla glass screen means that it can withstand all types of physical abuse and will not break. For $1,500, this is worth every penny. All users report it as an excellent device.


The Symbol/Zebra MC40 Series Handheld Mobile Computer is a budget model. It features a 4.3′′ Touch-Screen, 1 GB RAM/8 GB ROM, flash, and a removable and rechargeable 2680mAh battery. Also featuring the Zebra scan 2D/1D/QR barcode reader and WiFi 802.11a/b/g/n, it sure gets the job done. You should, however, note that they sell this item as a “scanner only.” They include no cradle or cable in the box. 

  • Battery operated-comes with a lithium battery
  • Elegant design and sleek
  • It weighs 826 grams- a bit heavier than other barcode scanners
  • It uses the android system
  • Good durability and features solid security
  • It has a laser band for scanning
  • It comes with telephone ready options
  • The touch screen is 4.3 inches
  • It has an LED backlight
  • Connects via Bluetooth and WiFi
  • Rear-facing 8MP camera

Like all Motorola products, the MC40 is a reliable scanner. Keep in mind, when purchasing, you only get the scanner. You’ll need to pay extra for the cable and recharging cradle. The scanner has many functions and is telephone-ready. It also has a state of art 8MP camera and can connect via BlueTooth and WiFi. IT is exceptionally fast and has 1GM RAM plus 8GB flash memory. This device is useful for all types of businesses, including warehouses. The MC40 may be discontinued soon, and a newer model might appear in 2022, so consider delaying your purchase if you want the brand new model.


This inventory handheld computer scans 1D barcodes. It provides aid for codes 128, EAN-13, ISBN / ISSN, UCC / EAN-128, UPC-A, UPC-E, and Codabar. Productive efficiency of the unit? Well, it is built to last and designed to last. It features IPS 480 * 854 PX with a multipurpose touch screen, physical keyboard, and joystick support. It is IP66 waterproof for water and dust. Your staff can still expect breakage if they carelessly drop it on cement or use it in wet and dusty areas. The high-performance data-processing quad-core can perform multiple tasks simultaneously to ensure smooth functioning.

  • It comes with an NFC reader
  • OS Android 8.1
  • Screen 4.5 inch
  • Ideal for any climate.
  • Accurate results.
  • High-performing data processors. 
  • Memory 2 GB and 16 GB
  • Supports 1D barcodes
  • It has a Honeywell laser scanner
  • It comes with a lithium battery that works for 12 hours
  • Durable and rugged
  • Can withstand all types of abuse
  • Very fast and functional
  • The touch screen is receptive
  • Weighs 510 g
  • You can expand it for Sim card
  • You can use it in all kinds of businesses

This is a great device. Not many reviews are available for this device, but it is an excellent choice judging from its functions. It can also be used as a phone with a SIM card slot. It does not appear to have a camera but otherwise a good machine. MUNBYN products have a good track record, and many have Honeywell technology incorporated into the device. The touch screen is very receptive, and the scanner is fast. It is one of the best barcode scanners on the market for the price. Best of all, it comes with professional lifetime customer support.


This Mobile Computer features a built-in 1D laser scanner. Additionally, its unique handheld pistol grip ensures superior ergonomics. You can quickly reach the side-scan button regardless of the size of your hand and the applicability situation. With ultra-fast 4G LTE, dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4G+5G), low-consumption battery, and accurate GPS, you are offered high-speed and stable wireless connectivity anywhere anytime, never interrupting your work. This makes web, warehouse, and stock applications easy to process.

  • It comes with a battery that runs for 18 hours
  • Very fast
  • Optimizes stock management. 
  • Support 4G LTE for speed. 
  • Pistol grip design. 
  • Rugged and durable
  • Easy to use
  • Dirt and waterproof
  • Can withstand all types of abuse
  • Ergonomic design
  • Weighs 970 g
  • Auto fixed camera
  • Touch screen
  • 5.2-inch screen
  • Dual-band Wi-Fi
  • Quad-core processor
  • 2GB RAM and 16 GB ROM
  • Has slot for SD card expansion up to 128 GB
  • Good wireless connection
  • Can read all 2D barcodes

While there are not many reviews on this device, this is an excellent device. It is rugged and durable. Easy to use and functional. This pistol Grip scanner can read all types of barcodes with great accuracy. The lithium battery offers 18 hours of operation and a standby time of over 500 hours on a single charge. The Android is ergonomically designed, easy to use, and is used in a wide range of businesses. The screen is designed to withstand all kinds of physical abuse. Even a drop from 6 feet will not damage it. The scanner is worth the money.


The Ultra-Rugged Android Tablet Barcode Scanner has a touch 8-inch monitor. The RAM is 4 GB with a 64 GB drive of data, and this space is expandable up to 128 G with a micro SD. However, these next-gen features do not make it less suitable for the workplace. This inventory handheld computer has an IP67 waterproof and dustproof housing. It’s perfect for harsh manufacturing environments. Its robust construction ensures durability in the field against humidity, extreme temperatures, falling, shocks, rain, sludge, sand, water, and altitude-resistant. The Ultra-Rugged Android Tablet Barcode Scanner runs on the Android 7.1 operating system.

  • Screen 8 inches
  • Memory 64 GB
  • Works in extreme conditions. 
  • It runs on Android OS. 
  • Expandable storage. 
  • Reliable, rugged, and durable
  • Able to withstand all types of abuse
  • It runs on the Android platform
  • Processor is Octa-core
  • Capacitive touch screen
  • It has a lithium battery with a long life of -10 hrs
  • Fast barcode scanning
  • You can use it in all types of work environments
  • Supports 3G and 4g LTE cellular data
  • Dual-band wifi and Bluetooth connectivity
  • Memory 64 GB
  • Weighs 1.4 kg

Amazon also offers regular promotions and discounts on handheld PCs. The promotions are usually available on certain specific days or long holiday weekends. It comes with an 8-inch screen powered by a Qualcomm Octa-Core processor. The tablet can read any 1D barcodes with reasonable accuracy. The device comes with the google play store if you want to download any apps for your business. 

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