Barcode Generator

Type any text or number below to generate a scannable barcode instantly, then download it as an image — everything runs locally in your browser.

No API key Nothing leaves your browser Unlimited use
Barcode Generator — free online tool

Content

Barcode

What is it and how does it work

How to generate a barcode

  1. Type the text or number you want encoded, and pick a barcode format that matches it.
  2. Watch the barcode render live — an error message appears if the value doesn't fit that format's rules.
  3. Download the result as a PNG for documents, or SVG for crisp printing at any size.
Barcode formats

Which barcode format should you use?

Different barcode formats exist because different industries standardized on different rules for what characters they hold and how many digits they expect. Picking the wrong format for your data is the most common reason a barcode fails to generate or won't scan correctly downstream.

FormatAcceptsCommon use
CODE128Any letters, numbers and most symbolsShipping labels, internal inventory codes
EAN-13Exactly 13 digitsRetail products sold in Europe and internationally
UPCExactly 12 digitsRetail products sold in the US and Canada
CODE39Uppercase letters, numbers, a few symbolsLogistics, ID badges, older scanner systems
Where barcodes are used

Barcodes beyond the checkout counter

Barcodes aren't only for retail checkout — warehouses use them to track inventory as it moves between shelves, shipping carriers print them on labels to route packages automatically, and many small businesses generate their own for asset tags, event tickets, or internal order numbers. CODE128 is the most flexible choice for anything that isn't an official retail product number, since it accepts virtually any text.

Most frequently asked questions

FAQ

Is this barcode generator free, with no sign-up?+

Yes. Barcodes are rendered entirely in your browser using JavaScript, with no account, API key, or limit on how many you can create.

Does it check digits for EAN-13 or UPC automatically?+

Yes. For formats that include a check digit, it's calculated and added automatically — you just need to enter the correct number of digits for that format.

Why does it show an error instead of a barcode?+

The value you entered doesn't match the selected format's rules — for example, EAN-13 needs exactly 12 or 13 digits. Switching to CODE128 accepts almost any text if you're not sure which format applies.

Related tools

Tools for Labels and IDs

Methodology

How This Generator Works

Your text or number is validated and rendered live as a barcode with JavaScript, with check digits calculated automatically for formats that require them — nothing you enter is uploaded to a server or stored anywhere.

Last updated: August 28, 2026.

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