Free Online Barcode Generator
Create Code 128, EAN, UPC, and other barcodes as images.
Any printable ASCII character. Letters and numbers are fine.
Test the barcode with a real scanner before printing. Keep enough white space around the bars, use a quiet zone of at least 10 modules, and avoid stretching the image or placing it on a reflective surface.
About the Barcode Generator
A barcode encodes data as a pattern of bars and spaces that a scanner can read. Barcodes are used on product packaging, inventory labels, shipping cartons, library books, event tickets, and internal asset tags. This generator supports five common formats: CODE128, EAN-13, UPC-A, CODE39, and ITF-14. Each format has its own character set and length rules, so the tool validates the value before rendering and explains what the selected format expects.
CODE128 is the most flexible option. It handles letters, numbers, punctuation, and the full printable ASCII range, which makes it a good default for internal codes. EAN-13 and UPC-A are retail product formats with fixed numeric lengths and a check digit. CODE39 is an older alphanumeric format that remains common in industrial and inventory systems. ITF-14 is used on corrugated shipping cartons and encodes exactly 14 digits, including a check digit.
Check digits and validation
Retail formats use a check digit to catch typing errors. For EAN-13 and UPC-A you may enter the value with or without the final check digit; if it is omitted, the generator calculates it. If you include a check digit and it does not match the calculated value, the barcode library rejects the input. ITF-14 works the same way with 13 or 14 digits. Always test the printed result with the scanner and system that will actually read it.
SVG vs PNG
- SVG is vector-based and stays sharp at any size. Use it for print, labels, and responsive web pages.
- PNG is raster-based and works in more software, but it can blur if scaled up or compressed too aggressively.
- Quiet zones matter in both formats. Leave white space around the bars so the scanner can find the start and stop patterns.
How to create a barcode
- Choose a format that matches your label or retail requirement.
- Enter a value that follows the format's rules.
- Adjust bar width, height, colors, and the human-readable text.
- Download the SVG or PNG and print a test copy.
Frequently asked questions
Why is my EAN-13 value rejected?
EAN-13 needs 12 or 13 digits. If you enter 13 digits, the last one must be the correct check digit. If you enter 12, the generator adds the check digit automatically.
Can I use lowercase letters in CODE39?
No. Standard CODE39 supports uppercase A-Z, digits, space, and the symbols hyphen, period, dollar sign, slash, plus, and percent. Use CODE128 if you need lowercase text.
Are the downloaded images free to use?
Yes. The barcode is generated in your browser from your own data, and the downloaded SVG or PNG is yours to use. Make sure the encoded value is legally allowed for your product or label.