Some people just can’t help but shop at the last minute, and some businesses are no different. With Sunrise 2027 creeping closer, some will definitely be scrambling, even though the transition has been unfolding at a slow but steady pace.
The reality is that not everyone prepares beforehand and that a last-minute rush is inevitable. To help cut through the chaos, we’ve tested these platforms to see which one is the best GS1 QR code generator so far.
The platforms on this list are confident enough in their products to offer free trials, demos, or freemium plans. This lets us test their capabilities without a sales rep guiding us every step of the way. It also allows us to evaluate how user-friendly they really are.
Our top pick comes first, but after that, the rest are in no particular order. That way, you can decide which one fits your business best.
QR TIGER GS1: The Top Choice
QR TIGER GS1 brings years of expertise in QR code generation, making it a standout option for businesses needing reliable, versatile solutions. The platform has built a strong reputation by focusing on dynamic QR code features, advanced tracking, and top-tier customization options.
QR TIGER GS1 offers more than just the basics—it’s designed to tackle the complex needs of businesses that require detailed analytics, personalized branding, and easy scalability.
With an intuitive interface and the ability to generate static and dynamic codes, this platform provides the tools to help businesses create GS1 QR codes effectively, enhancing engagement and delivering valuable data insights.
Pricing:
QR TIGER is flexible with its pricing, starting at $16.50/month when billed annually or $18/month for a month-to-month plan. There’s also an Enterprise plan for larger businesses.
Key Features:
✅ GS1-Compliant QR Codes: Fully adheres to GS1 standards.
✅ 1D Barcode Option: Generate QR codes and 1D barcodes with written GTIN, ideal for businesses yet to upgrade their scanning systems.
✅ Multiple Application Identifiers: Works with various AIs and data attributes, making it versatile for use cases.
✅ Link Output Options: Supports generating QR codes for URLs, app store links, file links, and product pages.
✅ Customizable QR Codes: Full control over design elements—colors, patterns, eyes, frames, and logos.
✅ Product Pages: Product pages are perfect for housing multiple links, embedding videos, custom design, and adding meta tags. They can even be set up as Digital Product Passports (DPP) that meet EU standards.
✅ High-Resolution Downloads: Get images in PNG, SVG, PDF, and EPS formats, with up to 4k resolution.
✅ Advanced Error Correction: Set to H (30%) for better readability, even with damage.
✅Tracking & Analytics: Track scans by device, location, and over time. Visualize trends through heatmaps, GPS maps, and charts.
Note: Bulk generation and an API are currently in the works.
Who is it for?
QR TIGER GS1 is ideal for businesses needing GS1-compliant QR codes, tracking, and customization. It suits industries like manufacturing, retail and logistics, where traceability and branding matter.
This platform has the right tools for creating DPPs or interactive packaging. It’s a solid choice for a flexible and feature-rich QR code solution.
TBarCode SDK by TEC-IT
TBarCode SDK by TEC-IT is a software development kit (SDK) for developers who want to integrate barcode creation directly into their applications. It supports various barcode types, including GS1-compliant 2D barcodes, and works seamlessly across different platforms.
Pricing:
TBarCode SDK costs $209 one-time (no recurring fees). A free online barcode generator and a demo version are available for download (for non-commercial use only) for quick testing.
Key Features:
✅ Generates GS1-compliant barcodes: QR codes, Data Matrix, EAN, UPC, GS1 Databar, and more
✅ Supports multiple file formats: PNG, JPG, SVG, and GIF
✅ Basic customization options: Adjust colors and fonts
✅ Cross-platform compatibility: Works across different environments and can be embedded into various software
Note: The 1D barcode is generated separately, but since this is a one-time payment, it’s not a dealbreaker.
Drawbacks:
❌ Static QR codes: These cannot be edited or tracked once generated.
❌ No built-in product pages: You must create and manage external product pages separately.
Who is it for?
TBarCode SDK is perfect for developers and businesses who need a one-time payment solution for generating GS1 QR codes. However, if you’re looking for tracking, updates, or dynamic QR codes, other platforms might be a better choice.
QR Planet
QR Planet is a platform tailored for businesses that need to create and manage QR codes for marketing and communication. It offers extensive customization tools, analytics, and mobile landing pages to enhance campaigns.
Pricing:
Plans range from $5 to $35, but they only cover up to 250 QR codes—so scalability is an issue for businesses with larger needs. There’s also an enterprise plan for more extensive requirements.
Features:
✅ GS1 QR Support: Allows for GS1-compliant QR codes with added data attributes.
✅ Comprehensive QR Code Design: Offers a variety of advanced customization options that surpass the others.
✅ GPS Request: Can turn on the option to request location data during scans.
✅ URL Monitor: Sends email alerts if the target URL becomes inactive.
✅ Error Correction Options: Available from L(7%) to H.(30%)
Drawbacks:
❌ Single-Link Limitation: QR codes can only point to one link. While a rule-based system allows automatic redirection based on parameters, it’s not the most user-friendly and is hard to test without guidance.
❌ Limited Link and Output Options: The QR codes can’t connect to product pages with multiple links (ingredients, sustainability info, user guides) or support file downloads. This could be addressed if the landing page feature were integrated with the GS1 generator.
❌ No 1D Barcode Generation: It can’t generate 1D barcodes alongside the QR codes, which could be a dealbreaker for businesses still relying on traditional logistics and POS systems.
Who is it for?
QR Planet is ideal for businesses looking for strong customization and tracking features for marketing campaigns.
However, its usability issues and lack of key GS1 code functions may limit its usefulness for businesses that need seamless integration, multi-link outputs, and product-level engagement.
It’s a solid choice for basic QR code needs but might not fit those requiring advanced capabilities.
QRfy
QRfy is a QR code generator that matches QR TIGER regarding standard QR code design flexibility. However, it has notable limitations regarding QR codes, making it less ideal for businesses needing full GS1 Digital Link functionality.
While there’s no freemium plan, QRfy offers a 7-day free trial, allowing you to test the platform before committing to a paid plan.
Pricing:
QRfy’s pricing starts at $39/month for a 3-month plan, dropping to $19/month for a 12-month plan. All plans give you access to all features, which is a big plus. You get unlimited QR codes, users, and more. So, there is no need to worry about hitting limits.
Features:
✅Design flexibility: Offers customization options similar to QR TIGER, including patterns and colors.
✅Error correction levels: Users can select the error correction level for their QR codes.
✅Complete GTIN support: Can handle GTINs up to 14 digits, making it functional for basic product identification.
Drawbacks:
❌Limited GS1 data: While GTINs are supported, additional attributes like batch numbers, product variants, and expiry dates cannot be included, restricting traceability and compliance use cases.
❌No 1D barcode generation: Unlike QR TIGER, QRfy does not generate 1D barcodes alongside QR codes, ignoring the needs of businesses still using traditional barcode scanners.
❌Single-link limitation: QRfy does not offer a multi-link product page, meaning each QR code is limited to one destination. This reduces customer engagement potential compared to platforms that allow multiple link outputs.
Who is it for?
QRfy is a strong competitor for standard QR codes, offering solid design flexibility and user-friendly tools. While having all the features and no limits to QR codes and scans is heaven-sent, it falls short regarding GS1 QR codes.
It lacks support for key GS1 attributes, doesn’t integrate 1D barcodes for backward compatibility, and limits engagement with a single-link system.
While it may work for simpler QR code needs, businesses requiring the best GS1 QR code generator (one that’s fully functional) will find it lacking. However, if they ever fill in these gaps, QRfy could have a real shot at climbing to the top of the pile.
Orcascan
Orcascan is a GS1 barcode generator focusing on automation and efficiency, particularly for businesses managing inventory and workflows.
It automatically generates product pages based on existing website data, reducing the need for manual input at the cost of customization.
Pricing:
Starts at $20/month. An enterprise plan is available for larger needs.
Features:
✅ Automated Product Pages: Pulls feature images and color palettes directly from a website, saving time on manual entry.
✅ Premade Icons: Supports quick-link additions for certifications, ingredients, and reviews.
✅ Dynamic QR Codes: Includes workflow triggers, such as notifications for low stock, helping automate your supply chain.
✅ Sheet-form Interface: Lets you efficiently manage and view GTIN data. Paired with automated product page generation, Orcascan is the only platform ready for bulk QR code generation.
✅ Analytics and Tracking: Monitors scans, trends, and activity, similar to QR TIGER, to keep track of your QR code performance.
Drawbacks:
❌ Limited Customization: Product page design is restricted to feature images and icon colors. There is also no option to customize the QR code.
❌ Separate 1D Barcode Generation: 1D barcodes must be generated separately. This means businesses must create two codes per product, which can be costly for manufacturers.
Who is it for?
Orcascan is a strong choice for businesses focused on automation and inventory tracking. It simplifies GS1 compliant QR code generation by automatically pulling product data from websites and integrating workflow triggers for better supply chain management.
However, its lack of customization options and the added cost of generating two codes per product might make businesses on a budget hesitant to commit to it.
Digital Link Connexum
Digital Link Connexum is one of the best GS1 QR code generators designed for businesses needing comprehensive tracking and multiple link output options.
It supports QR codes and 1D barcodes, ensuring compatibility with older scanning systems. While its interface is clean and intuitive, it lacks deep customization for QR code designs.
Pricing:
$15/month (billed annually) or $20/month (month-to-month). Custom plans are available for enterprise needs.
Features:
✅ GS1 Compliant: Full GS1 QR generation with tracking and analytics for optimal data collection.
✅ 1D Barcode Generation: Has the option to generate QR codes and 1D barcodes at the same time.
✅ Multiple Link Output Options:
- Single URL for direct linking.
- Customizable product pages for additional product details.
- Digital Product Passport support for regulatory compliance and transparency.
✅ User-Friendly Interface: Clean, intuitive design with an organized workflow for easy navigation.
Drawbacks:
❌ Limited QR Code Customization: While Digital Link Connexum offers solid functionality, it doesn’t provide extensive options for QR code design. This means businesses can’t fully tailor the QR codes to their brand aesthetics.
❌ No Bulk Generation in Free Plan: During our testing, we couldn’t find any bulk QR code generation options in the free plan, so we can’t give a solid evaluation of this feature yet.
Who is it for?
Digital Link Connexum is almost a match with QR TIGER GS1 in terms of capabilities. It’s a strong choice for businesses prioritizing GS1 compliance and tracking. Its support for 1D barcodes, digital product passports, and multiple link outputs makes it a versatile tool.
In a space where competitors are nearly identical, small details can tip the scales. While the lack of customization might not matter to everyone, it could be a big deal for those looking for full control over their branding.
That one missing piece of flexibility may prevent Digital Link Connexum from being the absolute top pick. Still, its robust tracking and multiple features make it a great choice for many businesses.
Choose the GS1 QR code software that works for you
So, there you have it! Our 6 top contenders for the best GS1 QR code generator, with QR TIGER GS1 leading the pack.
It stands out because it’s built for businesses that need more than basic QR codes—its dynamic features, advanced tracking, and customization options put it ahead of many competitors.
It’s designed to scale, making it a solid choice for businesses aiming to maximize their QR code strategy.
While other platforms are starting to catch up, QR TIGER GS1 still leads due to its ability to offer detailed analytics and seamless integration.
But as demand for features grows, the competition will certainly heat up. For now, though, QR TIGER GS1’s flexibility and functionality remain firmly at the top.
