✦ToolMagic

Barcode Generator

Generate barcodes from text or numbers. Choose from multiple barcode types, customize appearance, and download as PNG or SVG.

Any ASCII text

2px
100px

What is a Barcode Generator?

A barcode generator creates machine-readable barcode images from text or numeric input. Barcodes are used everywhere — in retail for product identification (EAN-13, UPC-A), in logistics for package tracking (Code 128), in libraries for book management, and in countless other applications. Our free online barcode generator supports multiple barcode formats including Code 128 (the most versatile, encoding all ASCII characters), Code 39 (widely used in non-retail environments), EAN-13 and EAN-8 (European Article Numbers for retail products), UPC-A (Universal Product Code used in North America), ITF-14 (for shipping containers), and MSI (used in warehouses and inventory). You can customize the barcode width, height, colors, and whether to show the text below the bars. Generated barcodes can be downloaded as high-quality PNG images or scalable SVG vector files. Everything runs 100% in your browser using the Canvas API — your data is never sent to any server, and you get instant live preview as you type. Whether you're a small business owner creating product labels, a developer testing barcode scanning, or anyone who needs barcode images, this tool has you covered.

How to Use the Barcode Generator

  1. Enter your data: Type the text or numbers you want to encode in the input field.
  2. Choose barcode type: Select from Code 128, Code 39, EAN-13, EAN-8, UPC-A, ITF-14, or MSI.
  3. Customize appearance: Adjust width, height, bar color, background color, and text visibility.
  4. Preview in real time: The barcode updates live as you type and adjust settings.
  5. Download: Click "Download PNG" or "Download SVG" to save the barcode image.

Features

  • Multiple formats: Code 128, Code 39, EAN-13, EAN-8, UPC-A, ITF-14, MSI barcode types.
  • Live preview: Barcode updates in real time as you type or change settings.
  • Customizable appearance: Adjust width, height, bar color, background color, and text display.
  • PNG & SVG download: Export barcodes as high-quality PNG images or scalable SVG vectors.
  • Input validation: Each barcode type validates input to ensure scannable output.
  • 100% client-side: Everything runs in your browser. No data uploaded to any server.
  • Works on any device: Responsive design for desktop, tablet, and mobile.

Use Cases

  • Retail products: Generate EAN-13 or UPC-A barcodes for product labels and packaging.
  • Inventory management: Create Code 128 or MSI barcodes for warehouse tracking.
  • Shipping & logistics: Generate ITF-14 barcodes for shipping containers and pallets.
  • Library management: Create Code 39 barcodes for book cataloging systems.
  • Event tickets: Generate unique barcodes for event tickets and access passes.
  • Development & testing: Create test barcodes for scanner and reader application development.

Tips & Tricks

  • Use Code 128 for general-purpose barcodes — it supports the widest range of characters.
  • EAN-13 requires exactly 12 digits (the 13th check digit is calculated automatically).
  • For best scanning results, keep high contrast between bar and background colors.
  • Download SVG for print materials — it scales to any size without quality loss.
  • Use the Base64 Encoder to embed barcodes as data URIs in HTML.
  • Try the Hex Color Converter to find the perfect colors for your barcode.

Barcode Generator vs Alternatives

Many barcode generators require paid subscriptions, limit the number of barcodes, or add watermarks. ToolMagic's barcode generator is completely free with no limits or watermarks, runs 100% client-side for privacy, supports 7 barcode formats, offers full customization, and provides both PNG and SVG downloads. No signup, no ads, no hidden costs — just instant barcode generation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which barcode type should I use?

For retail products, use EAN-13 (international) or UPC-A (North America). For general text/data encoding, Code 128 is the most versatile. For shipping containers, use ITF-14. For warehouse inventory, MSI or Code 39 are common choices.

Are the generated barcodes scannable?

Yes, all generated barcodes follow standard encoding specifications and are scannable by any compatible barcode reader. Ensure good contrast between bar and background colors for optimal scanning.

Can I use these barcodes commercially?

Yes, barcodes generated with this tool are yours to use for any purpose, including commercial products. However, for retail products, you'll need to register your EAN/UPC numbers with a GS1 organization.

What's the difference between PNG and SVG?

PNG is a raster image format — great for screens and quick use. SVG is a vector format that scales to any size without quality loss — perfect for print materials and labels.

Is my data sent to a server?

No. All barcode generation happens locally in your browser using the Canvas API. Your data never leaves your device.

How many digits does EAN-13 need?

Enter exactly 12 digits — the 13th check digit is calculated automatically. For EAN-8, enter 7 digits. For UPC-A, enter 11 digits.

Can I customize the barcode colors?

Yes, you can change both the bar color and background color using color pickers. Just ensure there's enough contrast for reliable scanning.

Related Tools

Explore more free tools on ToolMagic: use the Hex Color Converter for color selection, the Base64 Encoder to embed barcodes in HTML, or the Image Ratio Calculator for sizing.