CipherLab A2504S2BSU001 vs Datalogic QBT2131-BK-BTK1: Specification Comparison
Both the CipherLab A2504S2BSU001 and the Datalogic QBT2131-BK-BTK1 are wireless 1D linear imager barcode scanners designed for hands-on scanning in warehouse, retail, and light industrial environments. Each uses Bluetooth connectivity and a cable-free cordless form factor, making them direct cross-shop candidates for buyers evaluating cordless 1D handheld scanners. The comparison examines three decision-critical axes: scan performance and symbology breadth, environmental protection and physical build, and connectivity plus interface flexibility.
In This Guide
- Which scanner delivers faster throughput and broader symbology support?
- How do the two scanners compare on environmental protection, weight, and physical durability?
- Which unit offers greater interface flexibility for integration into existing systems?
- Which should you choose: the A2504S2BSU001 or the QBT2131-BK-BTK1?
- Side-by-Side Specs
- FAQ
Which scanner delivers faster throughput and broader symbology support?
The CipherLab A2504S2BSU001 specifies a scan rate of 578 scans per second and a documented scan range of 3–60 cm for Code 39 and 0.5–38 cm for UPC-A. Its symbology list is extensive, covering Codabar, Code 39, Code 93, Code 128, GS1 DataBar (RSS), Industrial 2 of 5, Interleaved 2 of 5, ISBT-128, Italian and French Pharmacodes, Matrix 2 of 5, MSI, Plessey, Telepen, UPC/EAN/GS1-128, and Code 11, among others.
The Datalogic QBT2131-BK-BTK1 specifies a narrower symbology set from its provided specs: UPC, EAN-13, Code 128, Code 39, Codabar, and Interleaved 2-of-5. No scan rate in scans-per-second and no scan range are provided in the supplied specifications for the QBT2131-BK-BTK1. Buyers requiring ISBT-128, GS1 DataBar, pharmacodes, or Telepen should note those are documented only for the CipherLab unit based on the specs provided.
How do the two scanners compare on environmental protection, weight, and physical durability?
The CipherLab A2504S2BSU001 carries an IP65 rating, meaning it is fully dust-tight and protected against low-pressure water jets. This makes it suitable for dusty warehouse environments or washdown-adjacent applications. Physical dimensions and weight are not provided in the supplied specifications for the A2504S2BSU001.
The Datalogic QBT2131-BK-BTK1 is rated IP42, providing protection against solid objects greater than 1 mm and dripping water when tilted up to 15 degrees — a notably lower environmental rating than IP65. However, the QBT2131-BK-BTK1 does provide physical data absent from the CipherLab spec sheet: it weighs 159 g (0.35 lb) and measures 69 × 127 × 124 mm. Its 1400 mAh battery capacity is also specified; no battery capacity figure is provided for the A2504S2BSU001.
Which unit offers greater interface flexibility for integration into existing systems?
The CipherLab A2504S2BSU001 connects via Bluetooth and includes a USB cable in the package. The Bluetooth profile is not further specified in the provided specs beyond 'Bluetooth.' The package contents confirm USB as the wired fallback interface.
The Datalogic QBT2131-BK-BTK1 supports Bluetooth (HID profile specified), USB, and RS-232 via its base station. The inclusion of RS-232 through the base expands legacy POS and industrial terminal compatibility beyond what is documented for the A2504S2BSU001. The QBT2131-BK-BTK1 also ships with a base station (BTK1 suffix), which provides charging and the wired interface hub — no base station is listed in the A2504S2BSU001 package contents.
Which should you choose: the A2504S2BSU001 or the QBT2131-BK-BTK1?
Our take: The A2504S2BSU001 is the stronger choice when environmental durability and broad symbology coverage are the primary requirements. Its IP65 rating outclasses the QBT2131-BK-BTK1's IP42 by two full ingress-protection tiers, making it the defensible pick for dusty or splash-prone environments. Its documented scan rate of 578 scans/second and symbology list — which includes ISBT-128, GS1 DataBar, pharmacodes, Telepen, and Code 93 — is materially broader than the six symbologies specified for the Datalogic unit. Conversely, the QBT2131-BK-BTK1 holds an advantage in interface flexibility (USB + RS-232 via base station vs. USB only) and offers a longer 3-year warranty versus the CipherLab's 2-year coverage. Its included base station also adds a charging and docking solution not present in the A2504S2BSU001 package. Buyers on legacy RS-232 terminals or who prioritize warranty length should favor the Datalogic; buyers in harsh environments or needing specialty healthcare and retail symbologies should favor the CipherLab.
Side-by-Side Comparison
Spec-for-spec, from manufacturer data.
| Specification | CipherLab A2504S2BSU001 | Datalogic QBT2131-BK-BTK1 |
|---|---|---|
| Scan Engine | 1D Linear Imager | 1D Linear Imager |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth, USB | Bluetooth, USB, RS-232 (via base) |
| Bluetooth Profile | Not specified | HID |
| IP Rating | IP65 | IP42 |
| Scan Rate | 578 scans/second | Not specified |
| Scan Range (Code 39) | 3–60 cm | Not specified |
| Scan Range (UPC-A) | 0.5–38 cm | Not specified |
| Min Print Contrast | 15% | Not specified |
| Symbologies | Codabar, Code 39, Code 93, Code 128, GS1 DataBar, I 2of5, ISBT-128, Pharmacodes, MSI, Plessey, Telepen, UPC/EAN/GS1-128, Code 11, more | UPC, EAN-13, Code 128, Code 39, Codabar, Interleaved 2-of-5 |
| Battery Capacity | Not specified | 1400 mAh |
| Weight | Not specified | 159 g (0.35 lb) |
| Dimensions | Not specified | 69 × 127 × 124 mm |
| Base Station Included | No (USB cable only) | Yes (BTK1 base) |
| Warranty | 2-Year | 3-Year Limited |
| Color Options | Black, Register White | Black |
| Package Contents | Scanner, USB Cable | Scanner, Base Station |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which should you choose: the A2504S2BSU001 or the QBT2131-BK-BTK1?
The A2504S2BSU001 is the stronger choice when environmental durability and broad symbology coverage are the primary requirements. Its IP65 rating outclasses the QBT2131-BK-BTK1's IP42 by two full ingress-protection tiers, making it the defensible pick for dusty or splash-prone environments. Its documented scan rate of 578 scans/second and symbology list — which includes ISBT-128, GS1 DataBar, pharmacodes, Telepen, and Code 93 — is materially broader than the six symbologies specified for the Datalogic unit. Conversely, the QBT2131-BK-BTK1 holds an advantage in interface flexibility (USB + RS-232 via base station vs. USB only) and offers a longer 3-year warranty versus the CipherLab's 2-year coverage. Its included base station also adds a charging and docking solution not present in the A2504S2BSU001 package. Buyers on legacy RS-232 terminals or who prioritize warranty length should favor the Datalogic; buyers in harsh environments or needing specialty healthcare and retail symbologies should favor the CipherLab.
Is the A2504S2BSU001 or QBT2131-BK-BTK1 better suited for healthcare or pharmacy scanning environments?
Based on the provided specifications, the A2504S2BSU001 is the better-documented choice for healthcare and pharmacy use. It explicitly lists ISBT-128 (blood-bag standard) and Italian and French Pharmacodes in its symbology set — neither is listed in the supplied specs for the QBT2131-BK-BTK1. Its IP65 rating also supports the cleaning protocols common in healthcare settings, compared to the QBT2131-BK-BTK1's IP42.
Which scanner is easier to integrate with an older POS system that uses a serial RS-232 port?
The Datalogic QBT2131-BK-BTK1 is the documented choice here. Its specs explicitly state RS-232 connectivity via its base station, and the BTK1 base station is included in the package. The CipherLab A2504S2BSU001 specs list only USB and Bluetooth — RS-232 support is not mentioned in the provided specifications.
Which unit has the better warranty, and does either include a charging base in the box?
The QBT2131-BK-BTK1 carries a 3-year limited warranty versus the A2504S2BSU001's 2-year warranty — a one-year advantage. On included accessories, the QBT2131-BK-BTK1's SKU suffix (BTK1) and product description confirm a base station is included; the A2504S2BSU001 package contents list only the scanner and a USB cable, with no base station documented.
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