What type of barcode scanner is suited best for occasional or test scans?

For occasional or test scanning of linear, i.e. normal barcodes like EAN / UPC, we recommend using a simple CCD barcode scanner. For this kind of application the hands free operation of most laser scanners is not required and the scan rate and precision of a good CCD scanner is as good as that of a laser scanner.

A good CCD scanner should cost considerably less than US$100 (EUR 80, GPB 60). Make sure to get a scanner that comes with a USB connection. USB lets you to use the scanner with laptops or Macs with which the usual keyboard wedge connectors don't work.