EAN vs UPC Barcode — What Is the Difference? — Barcode Generator

Learn the differences between EAN-13 and UPC-A barcodes and which to use for your products. Use Nofolo's free Barcode Generator to understand when to use EAN-13 vs UPC-A barcodes for retail products. Choose the correct retail barcode format for your market and distribution channels. No sign up needed.

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How It Works

Open the Barcode Generator and select the comparison template. Determine your primary market — North America (UPC) or international (EAN-13). Adjust the layout to fit your needs.

Add your content — your product market and distribution details. Customize colors, fonts, and branding to match your style. Register with GS1 to get a valid company prefix and product numbers.

Preview and export. Generate your barcode with automatic check digit verification. Download as PNG, SVG, or print-ready PDF. Deploy immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I create an EAN and UPC barcode formats?

Use our Barcode Generator to create either EAN-13 or UPC-A barcodes. Select the format, enter your GS1-registered number, and download.

Is this free for product manufacturers entering retail markets?

Yes. Nofolo's barcode generator is completely free for everyone. No sign up, no watermarks, no limits. Create as many designs as you need.

What size should I use for EAN and UPC barcode formats?

Both EAN-13 and UPC-A share the same physical dimensions (37.29mm × 25.93mm at 100%). UPC-A is technically a subset of EAN-13 with a leading zero.

Can I include a QR code?

Yes. The tool includes built-in QR code generation. Add a QR code linking to any URL, menu, WiFi network, or contact card. Fully customizable colors and shapes.

What format should I download?

For printing, use PDF (print-ready with 300 DPI) or SVG (scales perfectly). For digital sharing, PNG works great. All formats are included free.

Generate EAN or UPC Barcodes

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