Barcode, Bar Code, Bar-Code? Which is it?

ericjgough • September 10, 2015

Often people have asked us the correct way to spell barcode. The reason they are asking is that they probably have seen it spelled either barcode or bar code. Is the version without the space between the two words correct or should there be a space between bar and code?

Well, here is the answer we have found so far. Yes and Yes. They both are correct.

We have done a lot of research on these words because we often advertise our barcode (bar code) products for sale and for repair services. After all of our research, we still do not have a handle on what is the correct spelling.

Listed below are some of the major industry manufacturers that build barcode (bar code) scanners and/or printers. After reviewing their web sites, here are some the terms that they use.

Manufacturer Term(s) Used On Their Web Site

Motorola (Symbol) Bar Code Scanner

Honeywell (Handheld Products) Bar Code Scanner

Intermec Scanners Bar Code Scanner

Intermec Printer Bar-Code Printer

Zebra Bar Code Printer

SATO Bar code Printer &

Barcode Printer

Datamax-O’Neil Bar code Printer &

Barcode Printer

Metrologic (Honeywell) Barcode scanner

Printronix Thermal Bar Code Printer

Datalogic Bar Code Scanner

Unitech Barcode Scanner

Wasp Barcode Technologies Barcode Scanner

Barcode Printers

So, after reviewing these major manufacturers and seeing that there is really no consistency on how they spell bar code, barcode, or even bar-code, you can take your pick. After all if a $500 million dollar company can’t find the right spelling, why worry about it? Our company uses barcode scanners check it out. With any more questions you can always call MIDCOM at (800) 643-2664 or chat us up on Facebook, Twitter, Google+ and LinkedIn!

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