Top Hands-Free Scanners
Three of the best available presentation scanners are the Datalogic Cobalto CO5300, the Zebra DS9208, and the Zebra DS7708. The Cobalto is one of the most affordable and powerful low-volume 1D scanners, while the Zebra DS9208 and Zebra DS7708 are among the best 2D imagers for light volume (DS9208) and heavier volume (DS7708) scanning.
Datalogic Cobalto CO5300
Price: $224
Imaging: 1D omnidirectional laser
Interfaces: Keyboard Wedge; OEM (IBM) USB; RS-232; USB
Warranty: 3 years
Features: Single-line scanning, polyphonic speaker with customizable correct scan sound
Suited for: Convenience stores (single-line scanning is great for lottery tickets), light-volume scanning
Zebra DS9208 (formerly Motorola DS9208)
Price: $252
Imaging: 1D/2D imager
Interfaces: USB, RS-232, RS-485 (IBM 46xx Protocols), Keyboard Wedge
Warranty: 3 years
Features: Very small footprint, works well in bright light, scans off of phones
Suited for: Convenience stores, small retail, light-to-medium volume scanning
Zebra DS7708 (formerly Symbol DS7708)
Price: $441
Imaging: 1D/2D imager
Interfaces: USB, RS-232, Keyboard Wedge, TGCS (IBM) 46XX over RS485
Warranty: 3 years
Features: Recessed scan window prevents against scratches, powerful scan engine that can scan poorly printed, damaged, and digital barcodes
Suited for: Grocery stores, medium-to-heavy volume scanning
