Data Matrix Generator
Generate square Data Matrix codes that hold lots of data in a tiny space, including GS1 DataMatrix for healthcare and retail.
- Data Matrix & GS1
- Up to ~2,000 characters
- Tiny print sizes
- PNG & SVG
Loading the barcode engine…
Printed at 0.33 mm per bar: 14.5 × 14.5 mm (0.57 × 0.57 in)
What is a Data Matrix code?
Data Matrix is a 2D barcode made of black and white squares inside an L-shaped finder pattern. It stores up to about 2,000 characters, includes Reed–Solomon error correction so it scans even when partly damaged, and remains readable at just a few millimetres across. That makes it the standard for marking electronic components and machine parts (direct part marking), pharmaceutical packs and medical devices. GS1 DataMatrix adds application identifiers for the GTIN, batch, expiry and serial number, as required by drug serialisation rules in the EU and US.
How to create a Data Matrix code
- Choose Data Matrix, or GS1 DataMatrix for healthcare and retail.
- Type text or a URL; for GS1, write application identifiers in brackets.
- Set the module size for your print size.
- Download a PNG or SVG.
Data Matrix vs QR Code
- Data Matrix is more compact than QR Code for the same data and is preferred in industry and healthcare.
- QR Code is more familiar to consumers and scans readily with any phone camera app.
- GS1 DataMatrix example: (01)09521234543213(17)271231(10)LOT42(21)SN001.
- Keep a quiet zone of at least one module around the code.
Why use this data matrix generator
- No email, no account, no watermarkMany barcode sites ask for an email before the download. Here the image is created on your device and saved straight away.
- Print-ready sizesChoose the bar width in millimetres and 150–600 DPI, see the printed size before you download, or take a vector SVG.
- Check digits handled for youUPC, EAN, ISBN and ITF-14 check digits are calculated or verified, with a clear message if a number is wrong.
- Bulk and label sheetsPaste a column from Excel and get a ZIP of images or a PDF laid out on Avery 5160, 5163, L7160 and other sheets.
Common uses
- Electronics and parts. Serial numbers on small components.
- Pharmaceuticals. GS1 DataMatrix with GTIN, batch, expiry and serial.
- Healthcare. Medical device and specimen labels.
- Industrial tracking. Work-in-progress and tooling IDs.
Need a code people scan with their phone? Use the QR code generator or the Wi-Fi QR code generator. Pair labels with a UUID or random number generator for unique IDs.
Example: a pharmaceutical pack
Choose GS1 DataMatrix and enter (01)09521234543213(17)271231(10)LOT42(21)SN001 for the GTIN, expiry 31 Dec 2027, batch and serial number.
What to expect from the result
This tool creates barcode images; it does not issue product numbers. Retailers and marketplaces require UPC/EAN numbers licensed from GS1. Always test-scan a printed sample, especially at small sizes, on coloured backgrounds or with low-quality printers.
Data Matrix Generator questions
How much data can a Data Matrix hold?
Up to 2,335 alphanumeric characters or 3,116 digits in the largest size. Smaller amounts produce smaller codes.
Can phones scan Data Matrix codes?
Many phone camera apps and barcode apps can, but QR Code is more universally supported by consumer phones.
What is GS1 DataMatrix?
A Data Matrix that encodes GS1 application identifiers, used for drug serialisation and medical devices.
How small can I print a Data Matrix code?
With 0.25 mm modules, a code with a short serial number can be under 5 mm across. Test with your scanner.
Which format should I download, PNG or SVG?
Use SVG for printing at any size and for designers, because it is vector. Use PNG at 300 or 600 DPI for Word, Google Docs and label printers.