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What is the Difference Between QR Code, PDF417 and DataMatrix?
What Are QR Code, PDF417, and DataMatrix?
A QR code (Quick Response code) is a 2D barcode type. It consists of black squares arranged in a square grid on a white background, which can be read by a camera, scanner, or other imaging devices.
PDF417 barcodes are a type of stacked, variable length, bi-directional 2D barcode. It is one of the most widely used 2D barcodes, most commonly found in logistics, transportation (boarding passes), government identification (driver licenses and identification cards), inventory, and document management (postal packages).
The Datamatrix is a 2D high-density barcode symbol. Since 2000, this barcode has been recognized as a standard of ISO/IEC 16022. It encodes text, numbers, files, and data bytes. It uses small square modules and the perimeter of these modules is purposely different from the interior. This helps a barcode scanner identify cell locations for proper decoding.
QR Code vs. PDF417 vs. DataMatrix: Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | QR Code | PDF417 | DataMatrix |
|---|---|---|---|
| Structure | Square matrix | Stacked linear rows | Square matrix |
| Max Numeric Capacity | 7,089 digits | 2,710 digits | 3,116 digits |
| Max Alphanumeric Capacity | 4,296 characters | 1,850 characters | 2,335 characters |
| Max Byte Capacity | 2,953 bytes | 1,108 bytes | 1,556 bytes |
| Error Correction | Reed-Solomon - Up to 30% damage tolerated | Reed-Solomon - Up to 50% damage tolerated | Reed-Solomon (ECC 200) or convolutional (ECC 000–140) |
| Scanner Required | 2D imaging scanner | Linear or 2D scanner | 2D imaging scanner |
| Kanji Support | ✅ Yes | ❌ No | ❌ No |
| ISO Standard | ISO/IEC 18004 | ISO/IEC 15438 | ISO/IEC 16022 |
| Typical Shape | Square | Rectangle | Square |
| Best For | Mobile paymentsMarketingApp loginsLoyalty | Boarding passesDriver’s licensesPostal packages | Electronics markingPharmaceuticalsSmall parts |
QR Code vs. PDF417 vs. DataMatrix Code
- PDF417 barcodes are variable in dimensions, most commonly seen in the rectangular shape. DataMatrix codes and QR codes are basically square.
- QR codes have a larger capacity than PDF417 and DataMatrix codes.
- QR codes are extremely popular for mobile applications.
- PDF417 is a barcode with several linear rows of stacked codewords. It can be read from left to right in linear order with a simple linear scan. However, QR codes and DataMatrix codes are 2D matrix barcodes; you should use a 2D imaging scanner to read them.
- QR codes have the ability to encode Kanji characters.
Take the Next Step
We hope this helps you to determine which barcode type you are going to choose. Now it’s time to read the barcodes. You can download Dynamsoft Barcode Reader to implement barcode reading functionality into your application.
After downloading the Dynamsoft Barcode Reader, you can start your free 30-Day trial and Try Online Demo of Barcode Scanner.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between QR Code, PDF417, and DataMatrix?
QR Code is a square matrix barcode optimized for mobile scanning and offers the highest data capacity. PDF417 is a stacked, rectangular barcode commonly used in document-heavy industries such as travel and government identification. DataMatrix is a compact, square barcode ideal for marking small components with limited space.
Which 2D barcode holds the most data?
QR Code stores the most data, with up to 7,089 numeric digits, 4,296 alphanumeric characters, or 2,953 bytes. PDF417 can hold up to 1,108 bytes, while DataMatrix can hold up to 1,556 bytes.
Can a regular barcode scanner read PDF417, QR Code, and DataMatrix?
PDF417 can be read by both linear (1D) and 2D imaging scanners because of its stacked-row structure. QR Code and DataMatrix require a 2D imaging scanner or a smartphone camera.
Which barcode is used on boarding passes and driver’s licenses?
PDF417 is the standard barcode for boarding passes, driver’s licenses, and government-issued identification cards in the United States and many other countries.
What barcode is used for small electronic components?
DataMatrix is the most common barcode for direct part marking on small electronics, medical devices, and pharmaceutical packaging. It has been an ISO/IEC 16022 standard since 2000.
Do QR Codes support non-Latin characters?
Yes. QR Code supports Kanji characters, making it well-suited for applications in Japan and other markets using non-Latin scripts. PDF417 and DataMatrix support full ASCII but do not support native Kanji encoding.
Related Articles
A series on different types of barcodes
- The Comprehensive Guide to 1D and 2D Barcodes
- Difference Between UPC and EAN
- Difference Between Code 39 and Code 128
- Difference Between QR Code, PDF417 and DataMatrix
- Difference Between Intelligent Mail barcode, Postnet and Planet
If you’d like to compare other barcode types, please check out our online barcode comparison tool.