Tools
Barcode generator
Generate EAN-13, Code 128, Data Matrix, PDF417, Aztec and more, ready to print.
Letters, numbers and symbols (no accents)
Enter some content to generate a Data Matrix code
About Data Matrix
Invented by: International Data Matrix Inc. (RVSI Acuity CiMatrix)
Year: 1987
Used widely in electronics, healthcare and logistics. Can hold up to 2,335 alphanumeric characters.
About this tool
This generator creates one- and two-dimensional barcodes for labelling products, stock, parcels or documents. Use it to print the EAN-13 for a product that already has its number, internal warehouse labels in Code 128 or Code 39, tiny markings on parts with Data Matrix or Micro QR, or PDF417 and Aztec codes like those on boarding passes. Each type comes with a short note on what it is used for.
Choose a format under “Code type” and enter the content: the tool only accepts the characters that format supports and warns you if a digit is missing or extra. For EAN-13 and UPC-A you can leave out the check digit and it will be added for you. Under “Options” you set size, padding, colours and a transparent background, and linear codes let you hide the numbers. Download as PNG, copy it, or use “Batch” to make many at once in a ZIP.
Codes are generated in your browser and nothing is sent to a server. Only ASCII characters are supported: unaccented letters, digits and basic symbols. Note that generating an EAN-13 does not give you a number you can sell with in shops; those numbers are issued to each company by GS1. Downloads are PNG only, so increase the size before downloading if you need to print large.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use this EAN-13 to sell in shops?
Only if the number was issued to you by GS1 (GS1 UK in the United Kingdom). The tool draws the code correctly but does not reserve numbers, so a made-up one may clash with another product.
What is the check digit on an EAN-13?
It is the last digit, calculated from the first 12 to catch scanning errors. Enter only 12 digits and the tool works it out; enter 13 and it tells you if the last one is wrong.
What is the difference between Code 128 and Code 39?
Code 128 supports the full ASCII set (upper and lower case plus symbols) and is more compact. Code 39 only takes capitals, digits and a few symbols, but almost every older scanner reads it.
Can I generate lots of barcodes at once?
Yes. In the “Batch” tab, add items by hand or upload a text file with one per line, then download every PNG in a ZIP using the chosen type and options.