Barcode Generator (CODE128, EAN-13 and more)
Enter text or a product code to generate a barcode instantly and save it as a PNG image. Everything happens in your browser, and nothing you type is sent to a server. Need a two-dimensional code instead? Try the QR Code Generator.
🔒 Runs in your browser · Your data is never sent to a server
Notes
- Each format restricts which characters and how many digits are allowed. If the input does not fit, no barcode is shown and an error is displayed instead.
- To use EAN-13 / EAN-8 (JAN) codes on real products you must register a company prefix with GS1 or a similar body. This tool only draws a barcode image from any digits; it cannot issue or register codes.
- If you print the barcode, test it with an actual scanner. Bars that are too thin or a missing quiet zone can make it unreadable.
Glossary
CODE128
A general-purpose barcode format that can encode a wide range of ASCII letters, digits, and symbols. Common in logistics and internal inventory rather than retail product codes.
EAN / JAN
The standard retail product barcode (called JAN in Japan). It comes in 13-digit (EAN-13) and 8-digit (EAN-8) forms, and the last digit is a check digit that detects entry errors.
Check digit
A verification digit appended to a code and calculated from the other digits, so scanners and software can automatically detect a misread or mistyped code.
Quiet zone
The blank margin required on both sides of a barcode. Without enough margin a scanner may not detect where the barcode begins and ends, and fail to read it.
FAQ
Which format should I choose?
CODE128 is the most flexible choice when you need free-form letters and digits. Use EAN-13 or EAN-8 for retail product codes, UPC-A for US products, and ITF when you want a compact digits-only code.
Can I enter only 12 digits for EAN-13?
Yes. With 12 digits, the 13th check digit is added automatically. If you enter 13 digits, the check digit must be correct or no barcode is generated.
Can I encode Japanese or other non-ASCII text?
No. These barcode formats mainly encode ASCII letters, digits, and symbols, so other characters produce an error. To embed arbitrary text, use the QR Code Generator instead.
Can I use the generated barcode on real products?
To use EAN / JAN codes in retail you must register a company prefix with GS1 or a similar body. This tool only draws an image from the digits you enter, so use a code you have been assigned.
Share this page