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For a QR code in front of your Chromebook, open the built-in Camera app, choose Scan > QR code, and center the code in the viewfinder. Tap the recognized URL, text, or Wi-Fi prompt to use it. If the code is already displayed on your Chromebook, try Google Lens to select that part of the screen instead.

Scan a printed QR code or one on another device

  1. Open the Launcher and start Camera.
  2. At the bottom of the Camera app, choose Scan, then QR code.
  3. Hold the code in front of the Chromebook camera and center it in the viewfinder. Wait for the app to recognize it.
  4. Tap the recognized URL or text, or follow the Wi-Fi connection prompt if that is what appears.

Google also says the Camera app can scan a QR code directly from the viewfinder without first selecting QR code mode. The app is the usual built-in option; Google’s instructions do not require a separate paid app or dedicated scanner. See Google’s Camera app instructions.

Scan a QR code already on your Chromebook screen

Use Lens to select the code on screen and search for it. Google documents screen selection and Google Search results, but does not guarantee that Lens will decode every QR code or payload.

  1. Open the Launcher and choose Lens. Alternatively, open Screen Capture and choose Take partial screenshot.
  2. Select and drag over the QR code area.
  3. If you used Screen Capture, choose Search with Google and review the results.

For screen search with Lens, Google requires Google to be the default search engine. Available Lens controls may differ with the ChromeOS interface. Google’s instructions are at Search with Lens on your Chromebook. In Chrome on a computer, Lens can also select an image or page area; see Google’s Chrome Lens instructions.

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#1 Best Overall
Eyoyo EYH2 Handheld USB Wired 2D 1D Barcode Scanner for POS Mobile Payment
  • Continuous Usage All Day: The EY-H2 USB barcode scanner is designed to always be ready for the next scan, which significantly reduces downtime and repair costs; it shortens checkout lines, improves customer service, and boosts business productivity
  • Plug and Play: Eyoyo wired barcode scanner is connected via a USB cable, with no need to install any driver or software; It offers effortless connection and is compatible with Windows, Mac, Android, and Linux; Seamlessly works with Quickbook, Word, Excel, Novell, and all common software
  • Supports Multiple 1D/2D Barcodes: Eyoyo QR code scanner scan with most 1D 2D barcodes with ease; 1D Barcodes: EAN, UPC, Code 39, Code 93, Code 128, UCC/EAN 128, Codabar, Interleaved 2 of 5, ITF-6, ITF-14, ISBN, ISSN, MSI-Plessey, GS1 Databar, Code 11, Industrial 25, Matrix 2 of 5, etc. 2D Barcodes: QR, DataMatrix, PDF417, and so on
  • Supports Screen Scanning: The Eyoyo 2D scanner is capable of reading barcodes from smartphone screens, such as mobile coupons, digital wallets, and digital loyalty cards; Before scanning, simply turn your screen brightness to the maximum
  • Sturdy Anti-Shock and Durable Design: The Eyoyo 2D barcode scanner features an ergonomic design made of high-quality ABS, enabling it to withstand repeated drops from 5 ft/1.5 m high onto the concrete ground; The durable plastic material ensures a long service life

If Lens does not recognize the code

  • If you can save or obtain the QR image, open it in Gallery and try selecting the code with Lens.
  • Otherwise, display the code on another device and scan it with the Chromebook Camera app, or use another device’s camera.

These are practical alternatives; Google’s Lens instructions describe selecting screen content and searching, not guaranteed QR decoding in every situation.

When setup tells you to use a phone

Some Chromebook Quick Start setup flows display a QR code on the Chromebook and instruct you to scan it with an Android phone. Follow that phone-based instruction for that setup process; it is separate from scanning a physical code with the Chromebook Camera app. See Google’s Quick Start setup instructions.

Rank #2
NetumScan Desktop Barcode Scanner, USB QR Code Reader
  • 【Omnidirectional Automatic Barcode scanner】NetumScan Barcode Scanner can easily capture bar codes 1D, 2D/QR on labels, paper, and mobile phone or computer displays,Sensitive and accurately and you can easily scan damaged barcode, distortion barcode, colorful barcode and reflective barcode, etc special barcode. Perfect for retail and other high-volume scanning applications.
  • 【Automatic Smart Sensing Scanning】Specially equipped induction trigger, the desktop barcode scanner support auto-sensing scanning, barcode recognition more intelligent. When you not use the barcode scanner for a while, it will be into a sleeping mode. When handsfree barcode scanner in sleeping mode, it will automatically be activated once the item moving, and read the barcode under the window to upload to your device.
  • 【Non-slip Base and Anti-shock Design】Our Handsfree Omnidirectional Barcode Scanner can be directly placed on the desk, the anti-slip base makes it more stable, Built-in anti-vibration system can avoid damage while falling from the height of 4.92 feet. IP54 technology protects the wireless barcode scanner from dust.
  • 【Improve Your Efficiency】Compared with handheld barcode scanner, our handsfree barcode scanner is more free of your hands, no need to pick up the scanner when scanning, whether it is cashier scanning goods, or customer scanning digital barcode from smart phone. It can improve work efficiency and save time. Also it is so easy to use, no need extra training necessary for new staff.
  • 【Plug and Play, Easy to Use】No need to install any software or app, Our desktop barcode scanner is Plug and play. Easily connected with your laptop, PC, POS by USB Cable. Ideal work for Windows XP/7/8/10, Mac OS, Linux.(Note:NOT compatible with Square/Clover/Shopify.)
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Support on Ko-Fi

Which Chromebook tool should you use?

Where the code is Built-in tool What to do
Paper, packaging, or another device’s display Camera Choose Scan > QR code, then center the code in the viewfinder.
Already on the Chromebook screen Lens Select the code area and search with Google; decoding is not guaranteed for every code.
Chromebook setup screen that asks for a phone Android phone camera Scan the displayed code as directed by the setup flow.

A document scanner is not needed for the ordinary QR workflows above. Google’s separate scanner setup instructions concern document scanning, not a requirement for QR codes.

Best Value
Handheld USB QR Barcode Scanner, NetumScan Wired Automatic 1D 2D Image Bar Code Reader with Adjustable Stand for Store, Supermarket, Warehouse (Wired)
  • ✔Superior recognition ability - Fast accurate reading speed, 32Bit CPU super decoding ability that the speed can up to 300/sec, equiped with upgraded CMOS sensor, which can easily capture 1D/ 2D(QR/ PDF417/ Data Matrix,etc) bar codes from paper and screen, that can read even deformed barcodes, i.e. smudged, damaged, fuzzy, reflective barcodes, etc.
  • ✔Three scanning mode - Key trigger mode + Auto-induction mode + Continuous Mode. There is no need to pull the trigger in auto-sensing mode and continuous scanning. Conbined with handsfree stand, free up your hand thoroughly.
  • ✔Plug and Play - Just plug into a standard USB port and start your scan, no drivers required, no battery; works with Windows, Linux and Mac OS systems. Works with Quickbook, Word, Excel, Novell, and all common software.Note:Not support Square POS!
  • ✔Professional Anti-Shock Silicone Design - The silicone protective cover can avoid the scratches and friction while falling from the height of 6.56 feet; the technical of IP54 sturdy which protect the wireless barcode scanner from dust and moisture.
  • ✔Code Compatibility - Scan 1D barcodes -UPC, EAN, Code128, Code39, Code11, Codabar, Interleaved 2 of 5-Lottery ticket etc; Scan 2D barcodes including PDF417 - drivers license, Data Matrix, QR Code, Micro QR, Aztec code, etc.
Rank #4
Tera Barcode Scanner with Battery Indicator: 2D Wireless, D5100 Orange
  • 【Battery Level Indicator and 2200mAh Capacity】Larger battery enables longer continuous usage and twice the stand-by time of others. With the unique battery indicator light showing the remaining battery level, no more Low Battery Anxiety.
  • 【Ergonomic Design】 The curved handle is extended and thickened, tailor-made for North America customers. Specially designed smooth and flat trigger for better grip. 【Package Includes】Barcode Scanner x1, USB Cable x1, Dongle x1, User Manual x1.
  • 【Anti-Shock Silicone】 The orange anti-shock silicone protective cover can avoid scratches and friction while falling from the height of 6.56 feet. IP54 technology protects the wireless barcode scanner from dust.
  • 【2.4 GHz Wireless plus USB 2.0 Wired Connection】 Plug and play with the USB receiver or the USB cable, no driver installation needed. Easy and quick to set up. Wireless transmission distance reaches up to 328 ft. in barrier free environment.
  • 【Digital and Printed 1D 2D QR Bar Code Symbologies】1D: Codabar, Code 11, Code93, MSI, Code 128, UCC/EAN-128, Code 39, EAN-8, EAN-13, UPC-A, ISBN, Industrial 25, Interleaved 25, Standard25, Matrix 2D: QR, DataMatrix, Aztec, Hanxin, Micro PDF417. (Note: Not compatible with Square.)
Rank #3
NetumScan USB 2D Barcode Scanner
  • Fast 1D & 2D Code Reading: Built with a CMOS sensor and 32-bit decoding chip, this QR code scanner reads common 1D and 2D codes including UPC, EAN, Code 39, Code 128, QR Code, PDF417, Data Matrix and Aztec from printed labels or screens
  • USB Wired Plug and Play: Connect the wired barcode scanner to a standard USB port and start scanning without drivers or batteries. It works as keyboard input with Windows, macOS, Linux, spreadsheets, POS and inventory systems
  • Three Scan Modes for Different Jobs: Use trigger mode for controlled scans, auto-sensing mode for hands-free desk work, or continuous mode for batch scanning. Choose the mode that fits your workflow to reduce accidental repeat scans
  • Built for Daily Work Areas: The ABS+TPU body and silicone protective cover help protect the handheld barcode scanner from scratches and drops up to 6.56 ft, suitable for warehouse shelves, retail counters, libraries and office inventory
  • Practical Setup Support: Some barcode types or settings may need to be enabled by scanning setup barcodes. Keep the guide available when changing modes, suffix settings, or special code types such as Interleaved 2 of 5 or MaxiCode

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.