What's the best QR code scanner?

💻 Key takeaways:
1. There are several free QR Code scanner apps out there, including Kaspersky’s QR Code Reader and Scanner, QR & Barcode Reader by Gamma Play, QR Code Reader by Scan, Barcode Reader, NeoReader QR & Barcode Scanner, QuickMark Barcode Scanner, and QR Droid and QR Droid Private.

2. Safe QR Code scanner apps are those that ensure data security and privacy protection while scanning various QR codes.

3. Kaspersky’s QR Code scanner emerges as the winner because of its built-in security and protection from malware and suspicious links.

You don’t need to download an additional app when scanning QR Codes on Android (8 and above) and iOS (11 and above). Just point your native camera at the QR Code and click the link that pops up on your screen.

But if your smartphone has an older OS version or if you’re facing issues with scanning QR Codes, there are apps that can help with the same. There are dozens of free QR Code scanner apps on the App Store and Play Store. 

But choosing between them can get pretty daunting. You may wonder: Which app is the safest? Will this QR Code scanner work on Android? Does it scan QR Codes on iOS?  

So in this post, we’ve answered those questions and laid out 7 of the best QR Code scanner apps for Android and iOS in 2024. 

Read on to find out!

Table of contents

7 free QR Code scanner apps for Android and iOS

Scanning a QR Code with a native camera app is easy. But, there are chances of older smartphones being used, or scannability issues with native cameras. In such cases, QR Code scanner apps work as an alternative, and help redirect your audience to the desired content. 

Here are our top recommendations for QR Code scanner apps:

QR Code Scanner App     Operating System Price Kaspersky’s QR Code Reader and Scanner iOS and Android Free QR & Barcode Reader by Gamma Play  iOS and Android Free (Code Export $0.99 – Remove Ads $0.99) QR Code Reader by Scan  iOS and Android Free (Remove Ads $0.99 – Professional $3.99) Barcode Reader  iOS and Android Free NeoReader QR & Barcode Scanner  iOS and Android Free (Continuous scan – $1.99) QuickMark Barcode Scanner iOS Free QR Droid and QR Droid Private Android Free

1. Kaspersky’s QR Code Reader and Scanner

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Available on: Apple’s App Store and Google Play

Average rating: 4.5/5

Kaspersky is known for its range of security products, from anti-virus software to robust internet and office security. Here are some reasons why Kaspersky takes the spot as one of the best QR Code scanner apps for Android and iOS – 

1. Kaspersky is an international cybersecurity company that aims to make scanning QR Codes safe with its mobile app. 
2. It offers safety checks that ensure a QR Code doesn’t lead to a dangerous link or malicious content. It keeps a history of all QR scans done within the app. 

The mobile app, catering to the needs of app developers in the USA, is readily accessible on Apple’s App Store as “Kaspersky QR Scanner” and on the Google Play Store as “QR Code Reader and Scanner: App for Android.”

2. QR & Barcode Scanner by Gamma Play

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Available on: Apple’s App Store and Google Play

Average Rating: 4.5/5

QR & Barcode Scanner by Gamma Play is another scanner app that decodes a QR Code as soon as it detects it. 

This app by Gamma Play is efficient at scanning QR Codes and stores a history of all past scans. It helps users scan product barcodes as well, letting them compare prices online. 

After every scan, the app automatically identifies relevant actions such as visiting a URL, saving contact information, or calling a phone number.

3. QR Code Reader by Scan

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Available on: Apple’s App Store and Google Play

Average rating: 4.4/5

Scan’s QR Code Reader is an app that scans a QR Code once you open the application and point at one.

It’s a free QR Scanner app for Android as well as iOS, with more than 50 million downloads on the Google Play Store. It is a lite app with minimal storage space. The app can also be used to scan barcodes.

4. Bar-Code Reader

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Available on: Apple’s App Store and Google Play

Average Rating: 4.0/5

Of the QR Code scanner apps for Android and iOS, Bar Code reader makes our list, and that’s for a couple of reasons-

1. The app lets users share the scanned codes via email or save them on their smartphones.
2. It also supports copying and pasting code into other apps and performing a web search. 
3. To start a scan, tap on the “TAP TO START SCAN” button and point the camera to your QR Code. You must correctly align the camera with the barcode to scan.

5. NeoReader QR & Barcode Scanner

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Available on: Apple’s App Store and Google Play

Average Rating: 4.0/5

NeoReader is a universal QR Code reader that can scan all standard barcodes like Data Matrix, QR Codes, Aztec Codes, EAN, UPC, Code 128, and PDF 417. 

It detects the type of QR Code automatically and scans QR Codes from any direction. As a free scanner app for Android and iOS, it has several other features, such as:

1. The app maintains a detailed history of all QR Code scans for easy reference. 
2. It supports scans using both front and rear cameras. 
3. For external URLs, the app confirms the website first before visiting.

The app is straightforward to use. The user just has to click the link that the app displays after scanning the QR Code.

6. QuickMark Barcode Scanner  [Free QR Code Scanner for iOS only]

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Available on: Apple’s App Store

Average Rating: 4.0/5

QuickMark barcode scanner app is a free QR Code reader app for iOS. It has several features, such as:

1. Supporting multiple barcode formats such as Quick code, QR Code, Data Matrix, EAN 8/13, Code39, and Code 128. 
2. QuickMark also helps users add contacts, navigate locations, send business emails, and add events directly to the calendar.
3. It also facilitates scanning barcodes from images. 

The in-app purchase feature offers bulk scanning of QR Codes. Users can export a .csv to a Dropbox account.

7. QR Droid and QR Droid Private [Free QR Code Scanner for Android only]

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Available on: Google Play

Average Rating: 3.8/5 and 4.3/5

The difference between these two apps is the number of features you’re permitted to use. QR Droid Private lets you use more features than the basic QR Droid. 

1. With QR Droid, you can scan QR Codes and share contacts, location paths, bookmarks, etc. 
2. These apps have a sort and group function that helps you organize and access QR Code scan history. 
3. It does not open USSD links automatically, preventing potential attacks on your device. 
4. The app comes with a QR Droid widget for instant on-screen access.

Which is the best QR Code scanner app for Android and iOS?

A QR Code scanner app is only required by devices below Android 8 or iOS 11. Android devices above version 8 and devices with iOS 11 and above have QR Code scanning integrated into the native camera application.

It’s always better to be cautious before installing any app onto your smartphone. Here are some steps to follow before you download a QR Code scanner app:

1. Check if the app is available on the Play Store or App Store
2. Check its reviews and offerings
3. Check if it scans for QR Codes without prompting other actions or requiring additional permissions on your smartphone
4. It should have a clean and intuitive UI, making the scanning process straightforward for users.
5. Should also be a safe scanner app, ensuring user data privacy and security as QR Codes can sometimes lead to malicious websites or apps.

🤓Uniqode’s recommendation: We recommend using Kaspersky’s QR Code scanner as it comes with built-in security to help users ward off any suspicious activity. It also protects from malware and suspicious links and provides a safe experience for iOS and Android users.

Frequently asked questions about QR Code reader apps

1. What’s the best QR Code scanner app for iPhone and Android?

The best free QR Code scanner apps for iPhone and Android include:

1. Kaspersky’s QR Scanner
2. QR and Barcode Scanner by Gamma Play
3. QR Code Reader by Scan
4. Bar-Code Reader
5. NeoReader QR & Barcode Scanner
6. Quickmark Barcode Scanner
7. QR Droid and QR Droid Private

2. Can you scan a QR Code without an app?

Yes, you can if your smartphone has an Android version of 8 and above or a iOS version of 13 and above. However, if you don’t own a smartphone, here are some ways to scan a QR Code without an app: 

1. Online Decoder: If you need to scan a QR Code on a computer screen but don’t have a smartphone in reach, use an online decoder. ZXing Decoder Online is one of the best ones out there. 
2. Webcam QR Code Decoder: QR Codes can be scanned via a webcam to decode them. Try apps like WebQR to start scanning. 
3. Optical QR Code Scanners: These scanners are an alternative to QR Code apps. They are either handheld or fixed optical scanners. You can use them to scan mass QR Codes like those on ticketing and billing that need to be connected to computer software to run.

3. Does my phone have a QR Scanner?

To scan a QR Code, you must have a smartphone. Most smartphones come with an in-built QR Code scanner in their cameras. 

To check if your phone has an in-built QR Code scanner, open your camera and point it at a QR Code. If the QR Code directs you to a webpage containing the QR Code details or displays a banner, then your phone has a QR Code scanner. 

If not, then you will have to install a QR Code scanner app. 

4. How can I scan a QR Code with my phone?

Open the camera on your smartphone, and position your phone so the QR Code appears in the digital viewfinder. Click on the prompt that appears on-screen to launch the QR Code. 

If your phone does not support QR Code scanning, you’ll need to install a QR Code scanner app. We recommend Kaspersky’s QR Scanner, NeoReader, and Bar-Code for scanning QR Codes on both iOS and Android phones. 

5. Do I need an app to scan a QR Code?

If your smartphone has iOS 11 and above or Android 8 and above, you don’t need to download a third-party app. You can use the in-built QR scanner on your smartphone’s native camera.

If your smartphone doesn’t have the supporting operating system, install a QR Code scanner app such as Kaspersky’s QR Scanner, or NeoReader to scan QR Codes on iOS and Android phones.

6. How to scan a QR Code from a screenshot or a picture on your phone?

If your smartphone has the latest operating system, you can scan a QR Code from a screenshot or a picture on your phone using Google Lens.

To scan a QR Code with Google Lens, fire up the Lens option on your smartphone to access the QR Code’s content. Learn more about that here. 

7. How can I get my iPhone to scan QR Code?

Yes. If your iPhone has iOS 11 and above, you can use your smartphone’s native camera app to scan a QR Code.

A majority of smartphones already support native QR Code scanning. Consumers with older smartphones can use QR scanner apps for accessing content linked to QR Codes. Together, this comprises the entire consumer market. Businesses can hence leverage QR Codes to maximize return on investment in marketing campaigns. Learn how to utilize QR Codes and enrich your marketing campaigns. Schedule a demo now!

• Author Details

Author Details

Aditya Rajput

Content Marketer

,

Uniqode

Enthusiastic about marketing and improving the ROI of businesses.

Product

Mar 22, 2024

●

8min read

Did you know QR Codes have been around since the 1990s? That’s right—this modern-day digital marketing tool got its start 30 years ago, and it’s still going strong today. 

Businesses use QR Codes to share all sorts of information with their target audience. Brick-and-mortar retailers, trade shows, digital ads, and more are enhanced by the simple addition of the QR Code.

The barcode has been around for even longer and also holds valuable information about products, services, manufacturers, and more. 

The basics of QR Codes are pretty straightforward. To access the info embedded in a QR Code, most smartphone users can simply use their camera app as a QR Code reader. However, not everyone has access to this technology. In this guide, we’ll cover the top five free QR Code and barcode scanner apps.

1. QR & Barcode Scanner by Gamma Play

With over 500 million downloads, the QR & Barcode Scanner by Gamma Play is one of the most popular tools in the Google Play Store. As of March 2024, this reader app has a 4.5 rating based on 2.56 million reviews. 

Because this tool scans both QR Codes and Barcodes, it offers plenty of versatility for business across verticals—from marketing to inventory management and anything in between.

Additional perks & key features

• Built-in point of sight automatically scans barcodes.
  This scanner can process virtually any QR Code or barcode in seconds.
  
  
• Simple user interface makes it one of the easiest options—simply open the app and scan the code. No extra buttons or zooming are needed. 

Top use cases

• Compare prices while shopping: Use the QR & Barcode Scanner by Gamma Play to scan product codes while out shopping. Easily compare the prices of the products in-store to those online to find the best deals.
  
  
• Check into events: When arriving at an event or conference, attendees can check in by scanning a QR Code. The QR Code makes it easy to track arrivals and can provide valuable information about the event schedule. 
  
  
• Streamline DIY projects: Whether you’re building a birdhouse or regrouting your bathroom, QR Codes are a fast, easy way to access how-to guides and instructional videos for a wide variety of projects. You can include the QR Codes on the DIY tools, instructional manuals, or packaging. 

Where to get it

The QR & Barcode Scanner by Gamma Play is available in the Google Play Store for any Android device. 

2. Kaspersky QR Scanner

The Kaspersky QR Scanner lets you easily access the info embedded in QR Codes or barcodes. This tool’s built-in web browser allows you to read text files without leaving the app.

If the Kaspersky QR Scanner detects anything malicious or suspects a phishing website is embedded in the code, it notifies you immediately. 

Additional perks & key features

• Preview webpage content before visiting the site for added security.
  
  
• If you have any issues using the app, Kaspersky provides technical support. 
  
  
• Enjoy peace of mind—warnings notify you of anything suspicious embedded in the code, such as malware, phishing, or broken links.

Top use cases

• Complete secure transactions: Use the Kaspersky QR Scanner to complete secure online payments or banking transactions. The app ensures a higher level of security when accessing financial information.
  
  
• Connect to Wi-Fi networks: Safely scan QR Codes to connect to Wi-Fi networks without needing to enter any network names or passwords manually.
  
  
• Enjoy personal safety: Scan any QR Codes in public spaces without worrying about protecting your information. This is especially useful during public health crises to access contact tracing details and health declaration forms. 

Where to get it

The Kaspersky QR Scanner is available through the Google Play Store for Android devices. 

3. QR & Barcode Reader by TeaCapps

TeaCapps is a German software company started in 2011. The QR & Barcode Reader by TeaCapps lets you create, manage, scan, and share QR Codes and scan barcodes with ease. 

This app has over 100 million downloads from the Google Play Store. As of March 2024, the QR & Barcode Reader by TeaCapps has a 4.6 rating from the Google Play Store and iTunes, based on over 2.7 million reviews.

Additional perks & key features

• Never worry about space issues with unlimited history. 
  
  
• Keep everything in sync through cloud storage integration. The app works with Dropbox, Google Drive, iCloud Drive, and more.
  
  
• Use the Spotlight feature to easily search your QR Codes and find exactly what you’re looking for in a few quick clicks. Export data to Excel or CSV files.

Top use cases

• Cater to any special dietary needs: Scan food product barcodes to view a full list of ingredients. This is especially useful for users with food allergies. 
  
  
• Engage student learning: Students can access supplemental reading and other educational materials through QR Codes in textbooks or on a class syllabus.
  
  
• Improve patient wellness: Healthcare managers can use QR Codes on prescriptions or healthcare documents so patients can access additional information with ease. 

Where to get it

This app is available for Android and iOS, and you can download it from the App Store or the Google Play Store. 

4. QuickMark Barcode Scanner

The QuickMark Barcode Scanner is a simple, straightforward tool to scan QR Codes or barcodes. With this tool, you can create your own QR Codes and scan codes from an Apple or Android phone, a PC, or through an easy-to-install browser extension.

With the QuickMark Barcode Scanner, you can access and share more information without the need to type in long URLs or search through multiple web pages. 

Additional perks & key features

• Continuous scan function for bulk entries (available as an in-app purchase)
  
  
• Access scanned information quickly to add new contacts, open map navigation, or access links
  
  
• Download the QR Code in multiple file formats, including PNG, JPG, GIF, or SVG. 

Top use cases

• Manage inventory with ease: The QuickMark Barcode Scanner is great for small business owners to streamline inventory. Track inventory levels quickly simply by scanning product barcodes.
  
  
• Catalog your library: Book collectors know how quickly this hobby gets out of hand. Catalog your entire library by scanning the ISBN barcodes and storing book information. 
  
  
• Create a loyalty program: This is another terrific option for small business owners. Get repeat customers by creating a unique loyalty program. Customers can scan a QR Code with every purchase to collect and redeem points. 

Where to get it

The QuickMark Barcode Scanner is available on iTunes for the iPhone, in the Google Play Store for Android, and as a browser extension in the Chrome Web Store. You can also download it to use on PCs, and it can be used on Mac version 10.5 or above.

5. QR Code Reader by Scan Mobile

A simple but versatile option for Android users, the QR Code Reader by Scan Mobile is available for Android in the Google Play Store. It has a 4.4 rating and is free to download.

The app is positioned as a toolkit for any scanning needs and can be used to scan both QR Codes and traditional Barcodes. It’s free to download, but note that it does contain ads.

Additional perks & key features

• With the QR Code Reader by Scan Mobile, your data will never be shared with third parties.
  
  
• Scan codes in low light using the built-in flash feature.
  
  
• Reviewers love how easy this app is to use. They note that the scanner is accurate and the ads do not interfere with functionality.

Top use cases

• Check product reviews while shopping: Quickly scan QR Codes on products to access online reviews. Comparing brands and models is a breeze.
  
  
• Use tickets for your next event: QR Codes simplify event tickets. Whether it’s a concert, sports event, or conference, ticket holders can easily scan the code to check in with scanners like the QR Code Reader by Scan Mobile, streamlining entry processes.
  
  
• Enhance travel and tourism: QR Codes for tourists can offer access to detailed information about historical sites, museums, local attractions, and more with a quick scan. 

Where to get it

The QR Code Reader by Scan Mobile is available in the Google Play Store. 

Create QR Codes for any vertical with QR Code Generator PRO

Whether you need to scan QR Codes and Barcodes or create them, there are plenty of options available on the market today. 

QR Codes’ benefits for business are endless! Not only can these convenient little codes pass along valuable information to your target audience, but they can also boost your engagement and increase your likelihood of conversions. 

But if you really want to leverage the power and versatility of QR Codes, look no further than QR Code Generator PRO. QR Code Generator PRO allows anyone to create highly customizable Dynamic QR Codes that link to:

• URLs
  
  
• Text
  
  
• Emails and SMS
  
  
• MP3s
  
  
• PDFs
  
  
• Bitcoin wallets
  
  
• Images
  
  
• And much more!

Not only can you generate eye-catching codes that promote engagement, but you can also keep track of how customers are engaging with your codes with QR Code Generator PRO’s helpful analytics features.

Start your free trial of QR Code Generator PRO today, and see the difference QR Codes can make in your business!