1. What does this tool do
This free online QR and Barcode Scanner lets you scan QR codes and barcodes using your device camera—no app, no sign-up. Point the camera at a code to see the decoded content; copy the result or use it as needed. You can also scan from an image file. All processing runs in your browser so nothing is uploaded. Ideal for links, product codes, Wi‑Fi credentials, or any printed or on-screen QR or barcode.
2. How to use it
Quick start: Allow camera access, point at a QR code or barcode, and the last decoded result appears in the sidebar. Use "Copy" to copy the value, or "Scan from file" to decode an image.
- Allow access — Click the button to enable your camera. The live preview appears.
- Point at a code — Aim your camera at a QR code or barcode. The tool continuously tries to decode; when it succeeds, the result appears in the "Last result" panel.
- Copy — Click "Copy" in the result panel to copy the decoded value to the clipboard.
- Scan from file — Click "Scan from file" and select an image (e.g. screenshot or photo) containing a QR code or barcode. The decoded result appears the same way.
- Stop camera — Click "Stop camera" to turn off the camera when finished.
3. How it works
The tool uses the browser's MediaDevices API (getUserMedia) to access the camera. Video frames are drawn to a canvas and decoded in the browser: jsQR for QR codes and Quagga2 for linear barcodes (Code 128, EAN, UPC, etc.). Decoding runs at a throttled interval to avoid blocking the main thread. For "Scan from file", the image is loaded into a canvas and the same decoders are used. HTTPS is required for camera access. All processing runs in your browser. No data is sent to any server.
4. Use cases & examples
- Links — Scan QR codes on posters or packaging to open URLs.
- Products — Read barcodes to look up prices or product info elsewhere.
- Wi‑Fi — Decode Wi‑Fi QR codes to get network name and password.
- Tickets or passes — Scan event or travel QR codes to view or copy the data.
5. Limitations & known constraints
- HTTPS required — The tool does not work on plain HTTP (except localhost).
- Browser support — getUserMedia and the decoding libraries work in modern browsers; older browsers may not support camera or decoding.
- Permissions — You must grant camera access to use the live scanner. Denying blocks the camera; you can still use "Scan from file".
- Lighting and focus — For best results, hold the code steady and ensure good lighting. Very small or blurry codes may not decode.
- Format support — QR codes and common linear barcodes are supported; some specialized or damaged codes may not decode.