Datalogic QBT2500-BK-BTK1 vs CipherLab A2560SCBS0001: Specification Comparison
Both the Datalogic QBT2500-BK-BTK1 and the CipherLab A2560SCBS0001 are wireless handheld 1D linear imager barcode scanners designed for Bluetooth-based mobility in warehouse and retail environments. Each targets the same buyer profile: field workers who need cordless scanning without a tethered cable. This comparison evaluates the two units across scan performance and symbology breadth, environmental durability and physical design, and connectivity plus warranty coverage to help installers and IT buyers match the right unit to their deployment requirements.
In This Guide
- Which scanner delivers broader symbology support and measurable scan performance?
- How do the two scanners compare on environmental protection, weight, and physical build?
- What connectivity options and warranty terms does each scanner offer?
- Which should you choose: the QBT2500-BK-BTK1 or the A2560SCBS0001?
- Side-by-Side Specs
- FAQ
Which scanner delivers broader symbology support and measurable scan performance?
The CipherLab A2560SCBS0001 publishes a quantified scan rate of 578 scans per second and documents its scan range by barcode density: Code 39 at 3 mil reads from 3–10 cm, at 5 mil from 2–14 cm, and at 20 mil from 1.5–60 cm. Its symbology list is extensive at 20+ codes, covering Codabar, Code 11, Code 39, Code 93, Code 128, GS1 DataBar (RSS), Industrial 2 of 5, Interleave 2 of 5, ISBT-128, Italian and French Pharmacodes, Matrix 2 of 5, MSI, Plessey, Telepen, and UPC/EAN/GS1-128. Minimum print contrast is specified at 15%.
The Datalogic QBT2500-BK-BTK1 specs list no scan rate figure and no scan range by density. Its symbology coverage as provided includes Code 39, Code 128, UPC, EAN, and — inconsistently with its stated 1D scan type — QR Code, Data Matrix, and PDF417 are also listed under symbologies. The specs simultaneously describe the scan engine as both '1D Linear Imager' and '2D,' creating an internal contradiction that buyers should verify with Datalogic documentation before assuming 2D capability. For a like-for-like 1D comparison, the CipherLab provides more complete and internally consistent scan performance data.
How do the two scanners compare on environmental protection, weight, and physical build?
The CipherLab A2560SCBS0001 carries an IP65 rating, meaning it is fully dust-tight and protected against low-pressure water jets from any direction. This makes it suitable for light wash-down environments, outdoor dock areas, or dusty warehouses where exposure to moisture is a realistic concern.
The Datalogic QBT2500-BK-BTK1 is rated IP52, which provides protection against dust ingress sufficient to prevent harmful deposits and against vertically dripping water with the device tilted up to 15 degrees. It is not rated for water jets or significant moisture exposure. On weight, the Datalogic unit is specified at 159 g (0.35 lbs) with dimensions of 69 × 127 × 124 mm. The CipherLab A2560SCBS0001 does not publish weight or overall dimensions in the provided specifications. Buyers for whom weight or ergonomics over extended shifts is a factor should request CipherLab's published datasheet for those figures.
What connectivity options and warranty terms does each scanner offer?
The Datalogic QBT2500-BK-BTK1 supports Bluetooth wireless plus USB and RS-232 connectivity via its base station, providing flexibility for both modern USB-host systems and legacy RS-232 POS or industrial terminals. It includes a 3250 mAh lithium-ion battery and operates at 5 VDC input. Its warranty is 3 years limited.
The CipherLab A2560SCBS0001 specifies Bluetooth connectivity only; no USB or RS-232 base options are listed in the provided specifications. Buyers relying on RS-232 legacy infrastructure should confirm CipherLab's accessory ecosystem before specifying this unit. The A2560SCBS0001 carries a 2-year warranty. No battery capacity or input voltage data is provided for the CipherLab unit in the available specifications. The Datalogic unit's 3-year warranty versus CipherLab's 2-year warranty represents a meaningful difference in total cost of ownership for larger deployments.
Which should you choose: the QBT2500-BK-BTK1 or the A2560SCBS0001?
Our take: The A2560SCBS0001 is the stronger choice when environmental durability and documented scan performance metrics are the primary selection criteria. Its IP65 rating versus the QBT2500-BK-BTK1's IP52 represents a meaningful step up in protection against dust and water, making it more suitable for dock, light wash-down, or outdoor-adjacent environments. The CipherLab also provides a verified scan rate of 578 scans per second and a detailed scan range matrix by barcode density — data the Datalogic specs do not include, complicating like-for-like throughput comparison. However, the QBT2500-BK-BTK1 offers a longer 3-year warranty versus CipherLab's 2-year term, a documented 3250 mAh battery capacity, and confirmed RS-232 base connectivity for legacy terminal integration — advantages for mixed-infrastructure deployments. Note also that the Datalogic specs contain an internal 1D/2D scan engine contradiction that must be resolved with Datalogic before specifying for 2D use cases.
Side-by-Side Comparison
Spec-for-spec, from manufacturer data.
| Specification | Datalogic QBT2500-BK-BTK1 | CipherLab A2560SCBS0001 |
|---|---|---|
| Product Type | Wireless Handheld Barcode Scanner | Barcode Scanner (Handheld) |
| Scan Engine | 1D Linear Imager (2D also listed — verify with mfg) | 1D Linear Imager |
| Scan Rate | — | 578 scans/second |
| Scan Range (Code 39 20 mil) | — | 1.5–60 cm |
| Scan Range (Code 39 5 mil) | — | 2–14 cm |
| Scan Range (Code 39 3 mil) | — | 3–10 cm |
| IP Rating | IP52 | IP65 |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth, USB, RS-232 (via base) | Bluetooth |
| Battery Capacity | 3250 mAh Lithium-Ion | — |
| Input Voltage | 5 VDC | — |
| Weight | 159 g (0.35 lbs) | — |
| Dimensions | 69 × 127 × 124 mm | — |
| Min Print Contrast | — | 15% |
| Scan Modes | — | Auto-sense and continuous |
| Warranty | 3-Year Limited | 2-Year |
| Color Options | Black | Black, Register White |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which should you choose: the QBT2500-BK-BTK1 or the A2560SCBS0001?
The A2560SCBS0001 is the stronger choice when environmental durability and documented scan performance metrics are the primary selection criteria. Its IP65 rating versus the QBT2500-BK-BTK1's IP52 represents a meaningful step up in protection against dust and water, making it more suitable for dock, light wash-down, or outdoor-adjacent environments. The CipherLab also provides a verified scan rate of 578 scans per second and a detailed scan range matrix by barcode density — data the Datalogic specs do not include, complicating like-for-like throughput comparison. However, the QBT2500-BK-BTK1 offers a longer 3-year warranty versus CipherLab's 2-year term, a documented 3250 mAh battery capacity, and confirmed RS-232 base connectivity for legacy terminal integration — advantages for mixed-infrastructure deployments. Note also that the Datalogic specs contain an internal 1D/2D scan engine contradiction that must be resolved with Datalogic before specifying for 2D use cases.
Is the QBT2500-BK-BTK1 or A2560SCBS0001 better for wet or dusty warehouse environments?
The CipherLab A2560SCBS0001 is the better fit for those conditions. It carries an IP65 rating, meaning it is fully dust-tight and protected against water jets from any direction. The Datalogic QBT2500-BK-BTK1 is rated IP52, which covers limited dust ingress and dripping water only — not water jets or significant splash exposure.
Which scanner has the longer warranty, and does it matter for a fleet deployment?
The Datalogic QBT2500-BK-BTK1 carries a 3-year limited warranty versus the CipherLab A2560SCBS0001's 2-year warranty. For larger fleet deployments, that additional year of coverage can reduce replacement and repair costs, particularly if units are in continuous daily use. Total cost of ownership over a 3-year refresh cycle favors the Datalogic on warranty terms alone.
Can either scanner connect to a legacy RS-232 terminal or POS system?
The Datalogic QBT2500-BK-BTK1 supports RS-232 connectivity via its base station in addition to USB and Bluetooth, making it compatible with legacy RS-232 terminals and POS systems. The CipherLab A2560SCBS0001 lists only Bluetooth connectivity in the provided specifications; RS-232 support is not documented in the available data and should be confirmed directly with CipherLab before specifying for RS-232 environments.
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