Socket Mobile S700 vs Inateck BCST-70

If you run a business that requires barcode scanning, choosing the right scanner can be a daunting task. Two popular options for business owners are the Socket Mobile S700 and the Inateck BCST-70. In this article, we will compare the two barcode scanners in terms of design, performance, connectivity options, battery life, ease of use, compatibility, price, and customer support, to help you determine which one is better suited for your business needs.

Introduction to Socket Mobile S700 and Inateck BCST-70

Both of these barcode scanners are lightweight, compact, and portable devices that can be easily carried in your pocket or attached to your belt for quick access. They are designed to read 1D and 2D barcodes on various surfaces, including smartphones, tablets, and computer screens.

The Socket Mobile S700 and Inateck BCST-70 are both equipped with Bluetooth technology, allowing for wireless connectivity to your device. This feature makes them ideal for use in retail, healthcare, and warehouse environments where mobility and efficiency are essential. Additionally, both scanners have a long battery life, ensuring that they can last through a full day of use without needing to be recharged.

Design and Build Quality Comparison

The Socket Mobile S700 has a sleek and modern design, featuring a black and silver color with an ergonomic grip that is comfortable to hold for extended periods. It also has an LED light that provides visual feedback to the user, letting them know if a barcode has been successfully scanned.

On the other hand, the Inateck BCST-70 has a more rugged and industrial design, with a yellow and black color scheme and a protective silicone cover that makes it resistant to drops and scratches. It also has a powerful vibrator motor that provides haptic feedback to the user, letting them know when a barcode has been successfully scanned.

When it comes to the build quality, both scanners are made with durable materials that can withstand daily use. However, the Socket Mobile S700 has a more lightweight and compact design, making it easier to carry around in a pocket or bag. The Inateck BCST-70, on the other hand, is slightly bulkier but has a more solid feel to it, giving users a sense of confidence when handling it.

Another aspect to consider is the ease of use. The Socket Mobile S700 has a simple one-button design, making it easy for users to scan barcodes quickly and efficiently. The Inateck BCST-70, on the other hand, has a more complex button layout, with multiple buttons for different functions. While this may take some time to get used to, it also provides users with more customization options and greater control over the scanning process.

Performance Comparison – Scanning Speed and Accuracy

Both the Socket Mobile S700 and the Inateck BCST-70 offer fast and accurate barcode scanning. The Socket Mobile S700 can scan up to 5,000 barcodes on a single charge, with a speed of 230 scans per second. The Inateck BCST-70 can scan up to 8,000 barcodes on a single charge, with a speed of 300 scans per second.

When it comes to accuracy, both devices have high-performance optics that can read 1D and 2D barcodes on various surfaces, including curved and reflective ones. However, the Inateck BCST-70 has a higher decoding capability, which means it can read damaged and poorly printed barcodes more accurately than the Socket Mobile S700.

In addition to scanning speed and accuracy, the Socket Mobile S700 and the Inateck BCST-70 also differ in terms of connectivity. The Socket Mobile S700 uses Bluetooth technology to connect to devices, while the Inateck BCST-70 offers both Bluetooth and USB connectivity options. This makes the Inateck BCST-70 more versatile and compatible with a wider range of devices.

Another factor to consider is the durability of the devices. The Socket Mobile S700 is designed to withstand drops from up to 4 feet, while the Inateck BCST-70 can survive drops from up to 6 feet. Additionally, the Inateck BCST-70 has an IP64 rating, which means it is dust and water-resistant, making it suitable for use in harsh environments.

Connectivity Options – Bluetooth vs Wired

The Socket Mobile S700 offers both Bluetooth and wired connectivity options, which makes it compatible with a wide range of devices and operating systems. It can connect to smartphones, tablets, and computers via Bluetooth, and to PCs and laptops via USB.

The Inateck BCST-70, on the other hand, only offers wired connectivity via USB, which limits its compatibility with devices that don’t have a USB port. However, it has a plug-and-play setup process, which means you don’t have to install any drivers or software to get it up and running.

It’s important to consider your specific needs when choosing between Bluetooth and wired connectivity options. Bluetooth offers the convenience of wireless connectivity, allowing you to move around freely while using the device. However, it may not be as reliable as a wired connection, especially in areas with a lot of interference. Wired connections, on the other hand, offer a more stable and secure connection, but may limit your mobility. Consider your usage scenario and device compatibility before making a decision.

Battery Life Comparison

Both the Socket Mobile S700 and the Inateck BCST-70 have long battery life, which means they can last for a full workday without needing to be recharged. The Socket Mobile S700 has a 2,600mAh battery that can last up to 16 hours on a single charge, while the Inateck BCST-70 has a 2,400mAh battery that can last up to 30 hours on a single charge.

It’s important to note that the battery life of a scanner can vary depending on usage. For example, if the scanner is used frequently throughout the day, the battery may drain faster than if it is used sporadically. Additionally, the type of barcode being scanned can also impact battery life. Scanning larger or more complex barcodes may require more power and drain the battery faster.

Both the Socket Mobile S700 and the Inateck BCST-70 come with rechargeable batteries, which can be charged using a USB cable. It’s recommended to fully charge the battery before using the scanner for the first time, and to recharge it as soon as the battery level drops below 20% to ensure optimal performance.

Ease of Use – User Interface and Setup Process

Both the Socket Mobile S700 and the Inateck BCST-70 have a user-friendly interface that is easy to navigate. They both offer customizable scanning settings, which allows you to adjust the scanning angle, illumination, and motion tolerance to suit your scanning needs.

However, the Socket Mobile S700 has a more complex setup process than the Inateck BCST-70, which requires you to install and set up drivers and software on your device before you can use it. The Inateck BCST-70, on the other hand, has a plug-and-play setup process that doesn’t require any additional software or drivers.

It’s worth noting that while the Inateck BCST-70 has a simpler setup process, it may not be as customizable as the Socket Mobile S700. The Socket Mobile S700’s more complex setup process allows for greater flexibility in terms of scanning settings and customization options. So, if you’re looking for a scanner that offers more advanced features and customization options, the Socket Mobile S700 may be the better choice for you, despite its more involved setup process.

Compatibility with Different Operating Systems

The Socket Mobile S700 is compatible with a wide range of operating systems, including Android, iOS, Windows, and Mac OS. It also offers SDKs and APIs for developers who want to integrate barcode scanning into their own apps and software.

The Inateck BCST-70 is only compatible with Windows and Mac OS, which limits its compatibility with mobile devices that run on Android or iOS. However, it can be used with third-party software like Excel, Word, and POS systems.

Another barcode scanner that offers compatibility with multiple operating systems is the NADAMOO Wireless Barcode Scanner. It can be used with Windows, Mac OS, and Linux, as well as mobile devices running on Android and iOS. It also has a long wireless range of up to 328 feet, making it ideal for use in large warehouses or retail stores.

For those who primarily use mobile devices, the TaoTronics Barcode Scanner is a good option. It is compatible with Android and iOS, and can be used with a variety of apps, including Excel, Word, and POS systems. It also has a compact design, making it easy to carry around and use on-the-go.

Price Comparison – Value for Money

The Socket Mobile S700 is priced higher than the Inateck BCST-70, but it offers more features and connectivity options that make it a better value for businesses that require mobility and flexibility in their barcode scanning operations.

One of the key features of the Socket Mobile S700 is its Bluetooth connectivity, which allows for wireless scanning and data transfer. This is particularly useful for businesses that need to scan barcodes on the go, such as in a warehouse or retail environment. Additionally, the S700 has a longer battery life than the Inateck BCST-70, which means less downtime for charging and more productivity for your business.

Customer Support and Warranty Comparison

Both the Socket Mobile S700 and the Inateck BCST-70 come with a one-year warranty and customer support that is available via phone, email, and online chat. However, the Socket Mobile S700 offers more extensive customer support, including on-site training, installation, and troubleshooting services.

In addition to the customer support and warranty comparison, it is important to note that the Inateck BCST-70 also offers a user-friendly interface and easy-to-use software for inventory management. The software allows for easy customization of product information and the ability to generate reports for sales and inventory tracking. This feature may be particularly useful for small businesses looking for a cost-effective solution for inventory management.

Pros and Cons of Socket Mobile S700

Pros: Versatile connectivity options, long battery life, customizable scanning settings, SDKs and APIs for developers, and extensive customer support.

Cons: Higher price point, complex setup process, and limited compatibility with some operating systems.

Pros and Cons of Inateck BCST-70

Pros: Rugged and durable design, faster scanning speed, more accurate decoding capability, plug-and-play setup, and affordable price point.

Cons: Limited connectivity options, shorter battery life, compatibility only with Windows and Mac OS, and basic customer support.

Final Verdict – Which Barcode Scanner is Better for Your Business?

Choosing between the Socket Mobile S700 and the Inateck BCST-70 depends on your specific business needs and budget. If you require mobility and flexibility in your barcode scanning operations and need compatibility with a wide range of devices and operating systems, the Socket Mobile S700 may be the better option for you. However, if you are on a tight budget and need a more rugged and durable barcode scanner with fast scanning speed and accurate decoding capability, the Inateck BCST-70 may be a better fit for your business.