Can any barcode scanner be used with the Shopify POS system?

[elliebchildrens]

Hello, 

I am looking to get a bar code scanner. Do I have to use the Socket one supported by Shopify, or am I able to use any scanner with the shopify POS system. 

Thank you

[Blair · Accepted solution]

Hi @elliebchildrens,

Thank you for reaching out to the Community! I'm happy to provide some guidance with selecting hardware for your POS system, to get this resolved.

When choosing a barcode scanner, you will want to select from our list of supported scanners as they are compatible with the POS system. As third-party scanners will not function correctly with the POS, it's recommended you check out our Supported POS Hardware Documentation for a complete list. 

Please let me know if you have any other concerns! 

[Briskites]

@Blair That doesn't really answer the question though. That list only shows the two Socket scanners sold by Shopify.
They were asking if another brand of scanner will work.
Understood the socket scanners are the only "supported" option but curious why you say other 3rd party scanners wont function correctly?

[Blair]

Hi @Briskites,

Thank you for reaching out. To provide some clarification, the Socket Mobile scanners are currently the only compatible scanners for the Shopify POS.  

Please let me know if you have any other concerns. 

[Briskites]

Yes my concern is not getting an answer to the actual question. I am
asking if other scanners will work. NOT if they are supported.

[HKJ]

"Not supported" means it won't work.

The only way a scanner can be connected to Shopify is through the Shopify app, and the Shopify app will not pair for anything other than the listed Socket scanners.

There might be a workaround through a third part app, but you'll pay a monthly fee.

[Louise_Bonham]

Hello @Blair ,

I'm also asking on this point from @elliebchildrens with @SpiritRising, and further to @Briskites points.

I appreciate that Shopify cannot state another scanner as 100% compatible. However, this is a reader of barcodes, not an iPad which i can get for the same or less than the 1D scanner you hold dear.

I have been advised previously that it should be possible to link a different barcode reader, but to make sure it is NOT linked to the device via Bluetooth first. Unfortunately, I have gone through a few tests on other barcode readers without success. 

These SocketScan® S700 whilst nice looking do not offer anything extra, especially if you are not scanning QR Codes, which the 1D does not.

So, please can you advise of any other barcode scanner that will connect to your POS.

Also, if there is anyone else out there that stumbles on this, perhaps you might be so kind as to recommend a scanner.

Thank you.

[Steeeev]

I have tried a few different scanners, mostly in the zebra family, with no real success. 

I had to default to the Socket Scanner.

The price hurts, but it works very well and has a good battery life.

[christinlilly]

I have went through 4 socket mobile scanners in two years, they are TERRIBLE and rarely read the smaller jewelry codes. Please submit to the Shopify IT team to expand scanner options.

[James22222]

The socket scanners are garbage. I can't believe they only support these little hobby version scanners and not something more robust and enterprise level. 

[brooke_rose1845]

It's crazy that with all of the issues these Socket Scanners come with, they are still the only option Shopify has. We have gone through 3 since switching to Shopify POS and I really wish they would have a better option. I noticed how even on Sockets website, you are unable to leave reviews on their products. I wonder why...

[christinlilly]

Not acceptable. These scanners are a nightmare. Please see all the other comments about them. Please talk to IT or support, or whoever can get Shopify out of the terrible contract with Socket Mobile so that we can have better use of our Shopify systems.

[SpiritRising]

Has anyone used an unsupported barcode scanner with success? The supported scanner is more money than I want to spend, especially since I would also have to get a newer ipad for it.

Thanks!

[thesquirrelsden]

I am in the same boat. I am a really small store, yet they only support items that us little people can't afford. It has been beyond frustrating. They absolutely do not think about their small business owners. It is truly sad.