QR codes are a common sight; every one of us has encountered a QR code once in a lifetime. Research has shown a 96% growth in the QR reach between 2018-2021 and has made QR codes a powerful marketing tool in recent years.
Another closely related and oddly similar type of code is Data Matrix. Though not as popular as QR codes, Data matrix codes are just as useful in their own domain.
Both QR and Data Matrix are 2D barcodes used to store data and make the encoded data readily retrievable on a scan.
Despite their similarity, there is a difference in the appearance and usage of these 2D barcodes. Let’s see how these codes compare and contrast in the article below.
What Is Data Matrix Code?
Data matrix codes are square-shaped (sometimes rectangular) 2D barcodes that encode alphanumeric information in a series of contrasting cells, often black and white. They look similar to a QR Code and can store more information than a traditional 1D barcode.
What Is QR Code?
QR Code stands for ‘Quick Response Code’ and is a type of two-dimensional matrix barcode. It encodes information in a series of black and white squares and cells arranged in a grid. The code can exist in other colors as long as the colors are contrasting. A QR code can hold more information than a data matrix code.
Differences Between QR Codes And Data Matrix Codes
QR codes and data matrix codes are both square-shaped 2-D barcodes. They might even look alike at first glance, but they have several differences that set them apart and make them useful for different applications. These variations are present in their appearance, size, storage, and uses. Let’s look into these differences in detail.
Difference In Appearance
Though both codes are matrix-based and look quite similar, their structures have slight differences, as discussed below.
Data Matrix Code
Data matrix code consists of black and white cells arranged within a square grid ( rectangular grids exist too). The structure also contains two adjacent solid lines forming an L-shape on the border, which makes the code’s ‘finder pattern.’ The finder pattern helps in the recognition of the code upon scanning. The other two borders are formed by alternating black and white modules and are collectively called the ‘timing pattern.’
The data matrix codes are usually black and white, but they can appear in different colors keeping that the colors used for the grid and the matrix are highly contrasting.
QR Code
A QR code consists of black squares and cells arranged within a square-shaped grid. The three identical squares on the top-left, top-right, and bottom-left corners make up the code’s ‘finder pattern.’
A QR Code doesn’t necessarily have to be a black-and-white structure. It can be customized to add logos in the center, change frames, and add different hues.
Difference In Size
Data Matrix Code
The data matrix codes are smaller in size than the QR codes. The size of a data matrix code is determined by the amount of information stored in the code. The larger the data stored, the greater the number of columns and rows stored in the symbol.
Here’s the estimate of minimum and maximum symbol sizes of the Data Matrix code.
- New Version ECC 200 — 10×10 to 144×144
- Older Version ECC 000 –140 — 9×9 to 49×49
QR Code
QR codes can be custom-made into various sizes. The smallest QR code you can make without affecting its readability is 2 x 2 cm. However, there is no limitation to the maximum size of a QR code as long as you use high-quality QR files, so the pixels aren’t ruined or blurred when the QR code is enlarged.
Difference In Use
Both QR Codes and Data Matrix codes can be used to store all the information a standard 1D barcode can store, like GTIN (Global Trade Item Number), serial numbers, expiry dates, batch numbers, and website URLs. But, owing to their size and storage, they have different applications. The uses of both codes are listed below.
Data Matrix Code
Data matrix codes are smaller in size than QR codes. They can pack more data in smaller spaces and have higher storage density. This makes data matrix codes suitable for instances where the space is limited, like tiny product parts.
Data matrix codes are the only type of 2D barcodes approved by GS1 for application in regulated healthcare items and are also commonly used in the automotive and aerospace industry.
QR Code
QR codes are larger than data matrix codes and can hold more information. While data matrix codes can only encode alphanumeric data, QR codes can store Kanji and other multi-byte data in addition to the text and numerics. The multi-character coding makes QR codes suitable for use with non-Latin alphabets as well.
Due to their larger storage capacity and customizability, QR codes have found their way toward more customer-centric uses. QR codes are regularly used in restaurants as QR menus, and on the product packaging for additional product info, promotions, social sharing, contactless payments, and much more.
How Much Data Can Data Matrix Code Store?
Data matrix code stores data in its symbol in a series of rows and columns known as modules. The more data, the greater the number of modules. The maximum amount of data that a data matrix symbol can store is 2,335 alphanumeric characters, and 1556 bytes.
How Much Data Can QR Code Store?
A QR code can hold up to 2953 bytes of data; this includes 4296 alphanumeric characters, 7089 numerics, and 1817 Kanji characters (character set according to JIS X 0208). However, the storage capacity greatly varies with the code version and error correction level.
Code Comparison Table
| Data Matrix Code | QR Code | |
| Uses | Industrial use Product label serial numbers | Customer-centric use Product information promotional offers |
| Size (cells) | Minimum – 10 x 10 mm Maximum – 144 x 144 mm | Minimum – 21 x 21 mm Maximum – 177 x 177 mm |
| Maximum Storage Capacity | Numerics – 3116 Alphanumerics – 2335 Bytes – 1556 | Numerics – 7089 Alphanumerics – 4296 Bytes – 2953 |
| Appearance | L-shaped border as a finder pattern Either square or rectangular grid | 3 squares in the corner as a finder pattern Only square grid |
| Error Correction | The non-adjustable error correction capacity is 25-30%. | Error correction adjustable. The four correction levels include: Low: 7% Medium: 15% Quarter: 25% High: 30% |
Is Data Matrix Code Better Than QR Code?
Which code is better than the other is a subjective question and depends entirely on how you want to use them. While there are several differences between the two types of codes, they have advantages to them in their own capacity. To better understand the usability of these codes, we’ll look at how each of them has the edge over the other.
Advantages Of Data Matrix Code
- Take up less space: More data can be stored in a little area due to higher data density in the data matrix code. This reduces the amount of ink used during printing and also makes it suitable for labeling tiny parts.
- More fault tolerance: data matrix code provides up to 30% of automatic error correction. This means the code can be read even if one-third of the code is damaged.
- Scannable at low resolution: a data matrix code is readable at contrast as low as 20% only, compared to the 1D barcode that requires a resolution of at least 80%.
- Omnidirectional: they can be read in any direction from 0-360 °.
Advantages Of QR Code
- More storage capacity: more storage means you can enrich QR codes with all kinds of content.
- Freedom to customize: QR codes are popular in consumer marketing, and advanced QR generators like Unitag allow you to add logos and change the colors and frames of your QR codes.
- Easily Scannable: most phones have built-in QR scanners in the camera, and no special app is required to scan the codes. This makes QR codes more suitable for mainstream use.
- Editable for the future: Dynamic QR codes are editable for the future, and you can keep updating the contained content after the code has been published.
- Omnidirectional: QR codes can be scanned in any position.
Which Code Is Right For You?
The type of code that is suitable for you depends on what is your usage. To see which code is right for you, see the comparisons of applications below.
Applications
Data Matrix Code
- Industrial use
- Serial numbers
- Product expiry
- Product batch no./lot no.
QR Code
- App download link
- Website URL
- Promotion/Coupon sharing
- Restaurant menu sharing
- Social sharing
- Document sharing
Modern Marketing Uses QR Codes
QR Codes are a popular marketing tool in the modern age. According to a report by Statista,11 million households in the US scanned a QR code in 2020. This shows that consumers love interacting with QR codes, making them more interested in your business. So, if you’re a consumer-centric business, QR codes are a substantial way to promote your brand.
If you’re looking to make your marketing more fun and engaging with QR codes, Unitag QR Generator is your way to go.
Unitag offers customizable QR codes for Vcards, social media, websites, text, and much more. The QR generator is absolutely free for the first three codes, and the subscription can be updated to an affordable Standard plan where you can create editable codes to give your marketing that extra kick. Try the free version now and give your brand the boost it needs.
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