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Data Matrix vs. QR Code – What’s the Difference?

data matrix and qr codes
✅ Learn what is the difference between QR codes and Data Matrix
✅ Find out which one is better for your business purposes

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data matrix and qr codes

Two-dimensional (2D) barcodes like Data Matrix and QR codes are everywhere. Whether it’s for tracking products, sharing information, or enhancing marketing efforts, these codes make data sharing easy and efficient.

But which one should you use, and what’s the difference between them?

In this article, we’ll break down the main differences between Data Matrix and QR codes, so you can make an informed decision.

What is a Data Matrix Code?

what is a data matrix

Data Matrix is a type of 2D barcode that consists of black and white cells arranged in a square or rectangular pattern. It is highly efficient at encoding small amounts of data and is often used in manufacturing, logistics, and healthcare industries. Here are some key features of Data Matrix codes:

FeatureData Matrix Code
CapacityUp to 2,335 alphanumeric characters
Size EfficiencyIdeal for storing a lot of information in a small space, perfect for tiny products
Error CorrectionBuilt-in error correction allows the code to be scanned even if partially damaged

What is QR Code?

what is a qr code

QR codes, short for “Quick Response” codes, were developed for fast readability and information retrieval. They are widely used in consumer settings, from advertising to event management. Key features of QR codes include:

FeatureQR Code
CapacityUp to 7,089 numeric or 4,296 alphanumeric characters, suitable for larger data sets
High ScannabilityEasily scanned from a distance or different angles
VersatilityWidely used across industries such as retail, marketing, and transportation

QR vs. Data Matrix – Which Should You Use?

Both QR codes and Data Matrix codes are excellent options for different use cases. However, your choice depends largely on your specific requirements:

Use Data Matrix if…

  • You don’t need customers to easily scan your codes with their smartphones.
  • You’re working in industries like manufacturing, logistics, or healthcare, where size efficiency and tight spaces are a concern.
  • You need to mark small products or parts with scannable information.

Use QR Codes if…

  • You need to have your codes easily scanned with any smartphone camera.
  • You’re in marketing, retail, or customer-facing industries where ease of scanning and large data storage are essential.
  • You want to engage users with direct access to websites, social media, or apps. You want to edit the contents after printing and track scans.

QR Code vs. Data Matrix: Key Differences

qr code vs data matrix what is the difference

Both QR codes and Data Matrix codes serve similar purposes as 2D barcodes, but they have key differences that set them apart. Here are the main distinctions:

📐 Shape and Design

  • QR codes are typically square with distinctive finder patterns (three larger squares in the corners) that make scanning quick and reliable. This pattern allows the scanner to determine the orientation of the code easily.
  • Data Matrix codes can be square or rectangular and feature a pattern of black and white cells. They are compact and efficient for small labels, making them ideal for tiny spaces where a QR code might not fit.

💾 Data Capacity

  • QR codes have a higher data capacity, allowing them to store up to 4,296 alphanumeric characters or up to 7,089 numeric characters. This makes them ideal for linking URLs, text, and larger data sets.
  • Data Matrix codes, on the other hand, can store up to 2,335 alphanumeric characters. They are designed to be compact and efficient, storing data in a smaller area, which is perfect for manufacturing or healthcare use where space is limited.

🔧 Use Cases

  • QR codes are more commonly used in consumer applications, such as marketing, social media, and events, due to their high data capacity and versatility in design. They are easily recognized and used for quick access to websites, promotions, and product details.
  • Data Matrix codes are primarily used in industrial and healthcare environments where product identification, tracking, and small labels are crucial. Due to their ability to store data efficiently in small areas, they are preferred for use on tiny products or components.

🔍 Scanning Ability

  • QR codes can be scanned quickly from a variety of angles and distances, which is why they are popular in marketing where ease of use is crucial.
  • Data Matrix codes also offer good scanning performance, especially in environments where lighting may be limited or the code is on a small or irregular surface.

Here’s a summary of QR codes and Data Matrix codes across several important factors:

FeatureQR CodeData Matrix Code
ShapeSquare with finder patterns in three cornersSquare or rectangular
Data CapacityUp to 4,296 alphanumeric charactersUp to 2,335 alphanumeric characters
UsageCommon in marketing, events, and product packagingTypically used in industrial and healthcare sectors
Scanning SpeedQuick to scan at various anglesEfficient in low-light or tight spaces
Error CorrectionHigh level of error correction (up to 30%)Error correction, but less than QR codes
Size EfficiencyRequires more space for larger dataVery efficient for small product labeling
Edit after printingWith dynamic QR codesLimited
Track scansWith dynamic QR codesLimited
How To CreateQR code generator toolData matrix generator tool

QR codes are more widely used than Data Matrix codes for several reasons:

Larger Data Storage

QR codes can handle more data, which is useful when embedding URLs, texts, or larger amounts of information.

Consumer Familiarity

QR codes are widely recognized and often used in marketing campaigns, making them easy for customers to scan without needing specialized devices.

Design Flexibility

QR codes can incorporate logos, colors, and shapes to better fit branding, making them more aesthetically versatile.

Summary

Choosing between Data Matrix and QR codes ultimately depends on your business needs.

If you require a smaller code with a focus on error correction in challenging environments, Data Matrix is the way to go. However, if you need a code with more data capacity, branding flexibility, and wide consumer acceptance, QR codes are the better option.

Both technologies play vital roles in the world of 2D barcodes, so understanding their strengths will help you make the right choice for your application.

You can get started now with our free QR code generator tool if you like.

Frequently asked questions

Stylized QR code integrating question marks signifying FAQs on turning URLs into QR codes
How to create a Data Matrix?

Use a Data Matrix generator tool or software. Add your data, customize settings if needed, and generate the code.

How to scan a Data Matrix?

A Data Matrix will not be scanned by your smartphone native camera app. Unlike a QR code, it needs a special app. Open a QR code scanning app on your smartphone, point the camera at the Data Matrix, and wait for the app to recognize and decode it.

What is the main difference between QR codes and Data Matrix codes?

QR codes are often used in consumer applications and have a higher data capacity, while Data Matrix codes are more efficient in small spaces and are commonly used in industrial settings.

Can a QR code store more data than a Data Matrix code?

Yes, QR codes can store up to 4,296 alphanumeric characters, while Data Matrix codes can store up to 2,335.

Where are Data Matrix codes used compared to QR codes?

Data Matrix codes are used in manufacturing and labeling for small parts. QR codes are more used in marketing, advertisements, and content sharing.

Are Data Matrix codes more secure than QR codes?

Data Matrix codes are considered more secure for encoding sensitive data due to their smaller size and denser data arrangement.

How do Data Matrix and QR codes differ in readability and scan speed?

Data Matrix codes are compact and often used in industrial settings, while QR codes are visually larger and scan faster for general use.

Which is more used in product packaging: Data Matrix or QR codes?

QR codes are more commonly used in product packaging for marketing and information sharing. Data Matrix codes are found in manufacturing and inventory tracking.

Which code is better for small product labels?

Data Matrix codes are better suited for small product labels due to their size efficiency.

About the author

Siim Tiigimägi is the Content Lead at Pageloot. He writes about our innovative QR code generator services. With a profound expertise spanning over half a decade on QR codes, Siim is a subject matter expert in the field. He makes significant strides in leveraging QR technology to simplify and augment digital interactions.

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Lucas Jansen
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This is an excellent tool and the QR codes take you to just where you want. We only use the location QR code but there are so many useful features.
Emma Moretti
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Retail products
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Easy to use and quick. It works great and creates a perfect images, so employees can download my vCard.
Hugo Laurent
Hugo Laurent
Restaurant owner
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The most easy and reliable QR code Generator ever. PDF files can be uploaded instantly. Our restaurant menus are now digital.
Lucas Jansen
Lucas Jansen
Real estate developer
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This is an excellent tool and the QR codes take you to just where you want. We only use the location QR code but there are so many useful features.
Emma Moretti
Emma Moretti
Retail products
Read More
Easy to use and quick. It works great and creates a perfect images, so employees can download my vCard.

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