Ticket Scanners

Determining the Right Equipment

Consider these 9 factors when choosing a barcode ticket scanner to ensure you purchase the proper equipment at the best price.

1. Internet Connection
   Since most event ticket scanners require an Internet connection, you should first assess the speed, reliability and type of Internet access your venue has. Do you have wi-fi access? Is the signal strength at the door/entrance strong enough for a mobile device? If not, you’ll need to use a USB connected unit to an Internet connection. If you are outside, make sure you assess the strength of your signal. Large outdoor areas may require signal boosters to use with wireless scanners. Review our page about ticket scanner systems to learn more about your options.
2. Speed
   The larger the crowd, the faster you’ll want to funnel patrons through the door with rapid scanning. Generally, small venues can use inexpensive (under $300) USB ticket scanners. USB scanners are the fastest while barcode readers used with your cell phone may be painfully slow.
3. Duration of Use
   If your staff is scanning for more than an hour, consider purchasing an optional pistol grip for your scanner. These allow users to scan tickets with their hands held in a more natural and comfortable position. For long periods of use (all day festivals, for example), an extra battery for each unit is recommended.
4. Durability
   If your venue holds weekly events, rugged scanners will stand up to use and abuse. Scanners rated for four foot drops onto concrete–the height at which most scanners are held–will continue performing as without interruption.
5. Weight
   The lighter the unit, the more comfortable it is to hold for long periods. USB scanners weigh just ounces, while rugged ticket scanners fitted with optional accessories can reach nearly 1.5 pounds.
6. Indoors or Out
   Efficient barcode scanning relies on the ability to quickly read a barcode, and this process can be hampered in strong sunlight. We strongly advise outdoor venues to place ticket scanners under cover (tents, tarps, etc) to facilitate scanning. At minimum, purchase high quality devices, and have a permanently affixed umbrella or shaded area nearby for hard-to-read scans. Our informational page on selecting the right ticket scanner system offers more insight into outdoor choices.
7. Price
   Scanners range in price from a couple of hundred dollars to over $2500. For one-time events, you can rent scanners for $100-$650 per week.
8. Accessories
   Accessories can double the price of your scanner, so choose additional options carefully. With ThunderTix online processing, you do not need a cradle. Cradles are used to sync data and power the batteries of your scanners. Choosing a power supply cord can save several hundred dollars over the purchase of a cradle. Hand straps help secure your unit from accidental drops, and are an inexpensive alternative to pistol grips.
9. Consider Your Users
   Regardless of which equipment best fits your budget and performance needs, if you do not consider your users, your equipment may sit idly in the stock room if no one learns how to use it. Assess your users’ technical level with our guide,“What is the right barcode scanner for my venue?”

If you have questions, please contact us and we’ll guide you on selecting the right ticket scanner equipment for your venue.