Updated: September 10, 2025
Ticket scanning technology is now a cornerstone of modern event management. The right system not only speeds up entry but also reduces fraud and enhances the guest experience. This paper explores five common categories of scanners used by venues today — from mobile apps to rugged handheld devices — and highlights integrated options like the Zebra TC21 and Chainway C90 that work seamlessly with ThunderTix.
Smartphones and tablets have transformed event entry. With the ThunderTix mobile app, any iPhone, iPad, or Android device can serve as a professional ticket scanner.
No additional hardware required
Scans both digital and printed barcodes instantly
Functions as a mobile box office app for walk-up sales
Operates over Wi-Fi or cellular networks
Best for: smaller venues, festivals, or organizations looking for a low-cost, portable option.
Dedicated handheld devices like the Zebra TC21 and Chainway C90 deliver enterprise-grade performance for busy entry points. Built on the Android operating system, they feel familiar to staff and have a much shorter learning curve than older Windows Mobile devices.
Best for: theaters, arenas, and outdoor events with heavy crowds. Ideal when you prefer staff to use dedicated scanners rather than their personal phones.
Traditional USB scanners remain popular for fixed entry points. Connected to the USB port of an Internet connected tablet, laptop or desktop computer, a USB scanner is an excellent, rapid scanning, and inexpensive barcode scanner providing real-time updates as guests arrive and check in.
Plug into laptops or desktop computers (that have a USB port).
Provide rapid, accurate scanning.
Require reliable Internet connectivity for real-time validation.
Best for: indoor box offices and venues with tables or permanent setups.
Wireless scanners strike a balance between mobility and speed.
Connect via Wi-Fi or cellular networks.
Often include ergonomic grips for staff comfort.
Ideal for multi-entrance venues with strong connectivity.
Best for: mid-sized to large facilities with distributed gates.
While wireless portable scanners were popular in the late 2000s, they are less common today. These devices were often “mobile computers” running Windows Mobile, which required specialized training and setup. Modern professional handheld scanners — like the Zebra TC21 and Chainway C90 — are built on the familiar Android operating system, making them far easier for staff to learn and use. They’re also more affordable: older portable scanners often cost $1,500–$2,500 each, while today’s Android-based handheld scanners typically range from $400–$800.
For venues without reliable Internet or cellular coverage, offline systems are still a proven choice.
Use laptops, routers, and handheld devices in a closed local network.
Preloaded ticket lists ensure duplicate or invalid tickets are flagged.
Online ticket sales must be closed prior to scanning.
Best for: outdoor theaters, rural festivals, and temporary sites.
At any gate or event entrance, scanning a barcode instantly checks:
Valid tickets for the correct event, date, and time → approved entry with buyer, ticket, and seat details.
Invalid tickets → flagged with an invalid message. If it's a valid ticket for the wrong date, we post clear messaging to help guide the customer about the mistake.
Duplicate tickets → identified and blocked to prevent fraud so that the appropriate measures can be taken by the venue agent.
Every venue has unique needs. Some thrive with low-cost mobile apps, while others require rugged professional scanners like the Zebra TC21 or Chainway C90. By aligning scanner technology with your infrastructure, audience size, and event type, you can ensure a seamless entry process and safeguard your revenue. More information is available on our Barcode Ticket Scanning page.
We offer ticket scanner systems for events using commercial grade barcode ticket scanning, handheld scanner rentals and upgrade purchases, when you sign-up for the ThunderTix software that connects it all together. If you have questions, please contact us, we’d love to help you become our newest customer!
For more information on ticket scanner systems, check out our other guides.