There are three types of scanning technology, Laser Scanner, Linear Imager and Array Imager:
A laser scanner can read 1D printed barcodes but cannot read mobile barcodes. it is also unable to scan 2D codes or capture images but it does provide good performance on poor quality codes along with omni-directional scanning. These types of scanners tend to be a good and affordable option for standard, good quality 1D printed barcodes.
A linear imager can reads 1D printed barcodes and 1D mobile barcodes but cannot scan 2D code nor is omni-directional. It also cannot capture images but does provide excellent performance on poor quality codes and high density codes.
An Array Imager can read 1D and 2D printed and mobile barcodes and most have the ability to capture images. They provide excellent performance on poor quality codes and high density codes along with omni-directional scanning. An Array Imager can also be optimized to support signature capture, OCR, direct part marks and document capture.