Laser scanners use a red laser beam to scan the barcode and read the reflected light. They are the most common and cheapest type of scanner, but they can only read one-dimensional (1D) barcodes
Linear imagers use a row of LED lights to illuminate the barcode and capture its image. They can read 1D barcodes as well as damaged or poorly printed barcodes. They are more durable and reliable than laser scanners
Area imagers use a 2D array of LED lights to capture the entire image of the barcode. They can read both 1D and 2D barcodes, such as QR codes and Data Matrix. They can also read barcodes from screens, such as smartphones or tablets.
