What is a Data Matrix code?

A Data Matrix code is a two-dimensional barcode made of small square cells arranged in a square or rectangle. It holds far more data than a linear barcode in a much smaller space, which is why it is common on medicines, medical devices and very small items.

Data Matrix and GS1 DataMatrix

Data Matrix is defined in the international standard ISO/IEC 16022. GS1 uses the version with ECC 200 error correction, which lets a reader recover data when part of the code is damaged.

GS1 DataMatrix is the GS1 form of it. The GS1 General Specifications describe it as the ECC 200 subset of ISO/IEC 16022 that supports GS1 data structures in element string syntax, including the special Function 1 character (FNC1). A typical code carries several GS1 Application Identifiers:

(01)09506000134352(17)271231(10)ABC123(21)A1B2C3

That is a GTIN, an expiry date, a batch or lot number and a serial number in one small symbol.

Plain Data Matrix can also carry a GS1 Digital Link web address instead of element strings, the same way a QR code does.

Data Matrix vs QR code

GS1's retail guideline states that a QR code with GS1 Digital Link is the current preference for consumer engagement because the default camera on any mobile device can scan it. It also notes that GS1 DataMatrix "does not offer the web connectivity" of a QR code or a Data Matrix with GS1 Digital Link. Both symbols work at retail checkout.

Where Data Matrix is used

• Healthcare: in the EU, Delegated Regulation (EU) 2016/161 requires medicine packs to carry a unique identifier in a Data Matrix (Article 5), applying from 9 February 2019. Codes conforming to ISO/IEC 16022:2006 are presumed to meet the requirement.
• Medical devices and very small items: the GS1 General Specifications cover direct part marking of medical devices with GS1 DataMatrix, and note that many uses are on very small items with curved surfaces, such as vials, ampoules and small bottles.
• Retail: GS1 DataMatrix is one of the three 2D barcodes approved for retail point-of-sale.

The 2027 move to 2D barcodes

GS1 calls it Ambition 2027 globally and GS1 US calls it Sunrise 2027. The goal, in GS1's words, is "for retail point-of-sale (POS) scanning to be globally capable of reading and processing the GTIN from both existing linear and 2D barcodes by the end of 2027". It is an industry goal, not a law.

The approved retail 2D barcodes are a QR Code with GS1 Digital Link URI syntax, a Data Matrix with GS1 Digital Link URI syntax, and GS1 DataMatrix. Until 90% of POS scanning solutions can read them and capture at least the GTIN, products that use a retail 2D barcode must also keep their linear EAN or UPC barcode. Our GS1 Sunrise 2027 guide covers what this means for packaging.

Data Matrix and the Digital Product Passport

ESPR defines a data carrier in Article 2(29) as "a linear barcode symbol, a two-dimensional symbol or other automatic identification data capture medium that can be read by a device". A Data Matrix fits that definition, and each product group's delegated act decides which carriers to use and where. For a passport that consumers should open with a phone, a QR code with GS1 Digital Link is usually the more practical choice. A Data Matrix with GS1 Digital Link works where space is tight.

How to choose

• Regulated healthcare product: follow the sector rules, which in practice means GS1 DataMatrix.
• Consumer product with a passport or support page: a QR code with GS1 Digital Link, so shoppers and checkouts read the same code.
• Very small product or part: Data Matrix, with GS1 Digital Link if people need to open a web page.
• Test before printing: check size, quiet zone and contrast against the GS1 symbol specification tables. You can create test codes with the free barcode generator.