If you need to find the best shopping deals, keep track of your books, quickly assemble a grocery list, or just scan a QR code, these apps can help.

The information below should apply to any smartphone, regardless of the manufacturer.

The Best Barcode Scanner for iPhone: Barcode Scanner

If you simply need an app to scan barcodes and decipher QR codes, the Barcode Scanner app is what you’re seeking. With a fast scanner, the ability to track all scanning history, and tools to create your own QR codes, Barcode Scanner takes the cake—that is, as long as you are willing to pay the monthly subscription price after your free trial.

  • Simple to use interface.

  • Quick and efficent barcode/QR code scanner.

  • Activate the flashlight for scanning in dark scenarios.

  • History of all past scans.

  • Create your own QR codes.

  • $2.99 a month for a barcode app feels expensive.

  • Web search merely dumps you into a Google web page.

  • Available only for iOS devices.

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When You Want the Best Deal: ShopSavvy

If you enjoy hunting down the best deals and bargains, the free ShopSavvy app is perfect for your coupon-clipping arsenal. Although you can search for any item, the true power of the app comes from its barcode scanner.

  • Fast way to research pricing.

  • Large retailer database.

  • Save scanned items to account.

  • Completely free.

  • Notifications for deals you probably don’t care about.

  • No way to remove ads.

Merely scan any item to compare the best prices across the app’s database of retailers. Once an item is scanned, the mobile app recommends different purchasing options and products.

Keep an Inventory of Your Library: GoodReads

Goodreads is a free mobile app that allows you to keep track of every book you’ve read and intend to read. One of the most undervalued features of the app is its built-in book scanner, allowing you to save books to a “to be read” list or easily pull up reviews.

  • Extremely accurate.

  • Scan either the barcode or entire book cover.

  • Completely free.

  • Includes a great community for readers.

  • No easy way to compare book pricing.

  • Provided reviews are limited to Goodreads.

Join The Vinyl Revolution With Ease: Discogs

Similar to the Goodreads app, Discogs allows you to scan and sort your vinyl records. Scan the barcode of your new records into the Discogs database, or use the manual entry option for anything manufactured before barcodes were invented. Discogs also includes an avid community of vinyl fans to chat with after you’ve imported your collection.

  • Vast database of vinyl releases from around the world.

  • Other formats include cassette, minidisc, 8-track, reel to reel, and CD.

  • Excellent scanning feature for physical media.

  • Active, vibrant community for hobbyists.

  • Community features are limited mostly to the website.

  • Obscure media releases may not be listed.

  • Not all vinyl records have barcodes.

Make the Perfect Grocery List: Out of Milk

Use this app’s barcode scanner to quickly assemble a shopping list or keep track of items in your pantry. Before you toss that carton of milk, launch the mobile app and scan the barcode to add it to your shopping list. Out of Milk might be the solution to help keep your kitchen stocked, especially if you always forget to make a list.

  • Completely free.

  • A great way to track your food products.

  • Tracks item prices.

  • Sort foods into a shopping or pantry list.

  • Food products require manual price entry.

  • No local retailer pricing given for scanned items.

  • No way to remove ads.

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