Honeywell 8690IB201-2-N vs Zebra RS21C0-TS00ZWR: Specification Comparison
Both the Honeywell 8690IB201-2-N and Zebra RS21C0-TS00ZWR are wearable barcode scanners designed for hands-free operation in warehouse, logistics, and manufacturing environments. The 8690IB201-2-N is a purpose-built ring scanner from Honeywell's 8680i series, while the RS21C0-TS00ZWR is a wrist-mount body-worn mobile computer from Zebra. Both support 1D and 2D symbology capture and target workers who need continuous, hands-free scanning throughput across full shifts.
In This Guide
- Which scanner delivers faster throughput and broader symbology coverage?
- Which device is rated for harsher operating and storage conditions?
- How do weight, battery life, and wireless connectivity compare for full-shift wearable use?
- Which should you choose: the 8690IB201-2-N or the RS21C0-TS00ZWR?
- Side-by-Side Specs
- FAQ
Which scanner delivers faster throughput and broader symbology coverage?
The Honeywell 8690IB201-2-N is specified as a 1D/2D ring scanner supporting all barcode symbologies, including damaged and high-density codes, with an omni-directional scan pattern. Its Bluetooth radio operates in the 2.4–2.5 GHz ISM band with a stated read range of 44 mm to 552 mm (1.7 in to 21.7 in) for UPC. No scans-per-second figure is provided in the supplied specs.
The Zebra RS21C0-TS00ZWR specifies a 2D imager capable of UPC, Code 39, Code 128, QR, and Data Matrix, with a documented scan rate of 92 minimum / 104 typical / 116 maximum scans per second bi-directionally. Specific read-range figures are not provided in the supplied specs. The RS21C0-TS00ZWR's scan rate data gives buyers a concrete throughput benchmark that is absent for the 8690IB201-2-N.
Which device is rated for harsher operating and storage conditions?
The Honeywell 8690IB201-2-N carries an IP55 rating, meaning it is fully protected against dust ingress and resistant to low-pressure water jets from any direction. Its operating temperature range is -20°C to 50°C. No storage temperature range is listed in the supplied specs.
The Zebra RS21C0-TS00ZWR carries an IP54 rating, protecting against dust ingress (partial, not total) and water splash from any direction — one step below the 8690IB201-2-N on both dust and water axes. However, the RS21C0-TS00ZWR specifies a storage temperature range of -40°C to 70°C (-25°F to 160°F), which is notably wide and relevant for assets stored in unheated trailers or freezer facilities. Operating temperature range for the RS21C0-TS00ZWR is not stated in the supplied specs.
For active-use environmental protection, the 8690IB201-2-N's IP55 rating has a measurable edge. For cold-chain or extreme-storage scenarios, the RS21C0-TS00ZWR's documented storage range is an advantage where the 8690IB201-2-N provides no comparable figure.
How do weight, battery life, and wireless connectivity compare for full-shift wearable use?
The Honeywell 8690IB201-2-N weighs 26 g and carries a 420 mAh rechargeable battery, backed by a 3-year warranty. Its wireless connection is Bluetooth (2.4–2.5 GHz), which pairs with a separate host mobile computer or wrist unit rather than connecting independently to enterprise Wi-Fi infrastructure.
The Zebra RS21C0-TS00ZWR weighs 56.7 g (2.0 oz) — more than double the 8690IB201-2-N — and uses 802.11 enterprise Wi-Fi for direct network connectivity, enabling real-time sync to WMS and backend systems without a Bluetooth intermediary host. Battery capacity is not explicitly stated in the supplied specs beyond a reference to a backup rechargeable UPS battery. The RS21C0-TS00ZWR carries a 1-year warranty, shorter than the Honeywell's 3-year term.
Buyers prioritizing low wrist fatigue will favor the 8690IB201-2-N's 26 g ring format. Buyers requiring direct 802.11 enterprise connectivity and real-time WMS integration without a paired host device will favor the RS21C0-TS00ZWR's self-contained architecture.
Which should you choose: the 8690IB201-2-N or the RS21C0-TS00ZWR?
Our take: The 8690IB201-2-N is the stronger choice when minimizing wrist fatigue and maximizing environmental sealing are the top priorities, while the RS21C0-TS00ZWR is the stronger choice when direct enterprise Wi-Fi connectivity and documented scan-rate throughput are required. Key spec deltas: the 8690IB201-2-N weighs 26 g versus the RS21C0-TS00ZWR's 56.7 g — a 118% weight penalty on the heavier unit; the 8690IB201-2-N achieves IP55 versus the RS21C0-TS00ZWR's IP54, offering superior dust and water-jet protection; and the RS21C0-TS00ZWR documents a maximum 116 scans/sec throughput with direct 802.11 enterprise connectivity, while the 8690IB201-2-N provides no scan-rate figure and relies on Bluetooth to a host device. The 8690IB201-2-N also carries a 3-year warranty versus 1 year for the RS21C0-TS00ZWR. Choose the Honeywell for ring-scan Bluetooth deployments where weight and IP55 sealing matter; choose the Zebra for WMS-integrated 802.11 environments needing a self-contained wrist computer.
Side-by-Side Comparison
Spec-for-spec, from manufacturer data.
| Specification | Honeywell 8690IB201-2-N | Zebra RS21C0-TS00ZWR |
|---|---|---|
| Product Type | Wearable Ring Scanner | Wearable Body-Worn Mobile Computer |
| Series / Family | 8680i | — |
| Form Factor | Ring scanner | Wrist-mount |
| Scan Engine | 1D/2D imager, omni-directional | 2D imager |
| Symbologies | All 1D/2D (incl. damaged & high-density) | UPC, Code 39, Code 128, QR, Data Matrix |
| Scan Rate | — | 92 min / 104 typical / 116 max scans/sec |
| Read Range (UPC) | 44 mm to 552 mm (1.7 in to 21.7 in) | — |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth 2.4–2.5 GHz | 802.11 Enterprise Wi-Fi |
| IP Rating | IP55 | IP54 |
| Operating Temperature | -20°C to 50°C | — |
| Storage Temperature | — | -40°C to 70°C |
| Weight | 26 g | 56.7 g (2.0 oz) |
| Battery Capacity | 420 mAh rechargeable | — |
| Warranty | 3-year | 1-year |
| Dimensions | — | 1.9 in H x 1.4 in W x 1.9 in D |
| Part Number | 8690IB201-2-N | RS21C0-TS00ZWR |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which should you choose: the 8690IB201-2-N or the RS21C0-TS00ZWR?
The 8690IB201-2-N is the stronger choice when minimizing wrist fatigue and maximizing environmental sealing are the top priorities, while the RS21C0-TS00ZWR is the stronger choice when direct enterprise Wi-Fi connectivity and documented scan-rate throughput are required. Key spec deltas: the 8690IB201-2-N weighs 26 g versus the RS21C0-TS00ZWR's 56.7 g — a 118% weight penalty on the heavier unit; the 8690IB201-2-N achieves IP55 versus the RS21C0-TS00ZWR's IP54, offering superior dust and water-jet protection; and the RS21C0-TS00ZWR documents a maximum 116 scans/sec throughput with direct 802.11 enterprise connectivity, while the 8690IB201-2-N provides no scan-rate figure and relies on Bluetooth to a host device. The 8690IB201-2-N also carries a 3-year warranty versus 1 year for the RS21C0-TS00ZWR. Choose the Honeywell for ring-scan Bluetooth deployments where weight and IP55 sealing matter; choose the Zebra for WMS-integrated 802.11 environments needing a self-contained wrist computer.
Is the 8690IB201-2-N or RS21C0-TS00ZWR better for workers wearing gloves in cold or wet environments?
The 8690IB201-2-N's IP55 rating (full dust protection, water-jet resistant) edges the RS21C0-TS00ZWR's IP54 (partial dust, splash only), and its operating temperature reaches down to -20°C. The RS21C0-TS00ZWR does not specify an operating temperature range in the supplied specs, though its storage range extends to -40°C. For active cold-chain or wash-down environments, the 8690IB201-2-N's IP55 and confirmed -20°C operating floor give it a documented advantage.
Can the RS21C0-TS00ZWR connect directly to our WMS without a paired mobile computer?
Yes, based on the supplied specs. The RS21C0-TS00ZWR uses 802.11 enterprise Wi-Fi and is described as supporting real-time sync to WMS and backend systems, indicating it operates as a self-contained networked device. The 8690IB201-2-N uses Bluetooth, which typically requires pairing to a separate host device (mobile computer or wrist terminal) to reach enterprise network infrastructure — no direct 802.11 capability is listed in its supplied specs.
Is the 8690IB201-2-N or RS21C0-TS00ZWR better for high-volume picking operations requiring fast scan rates?
The RS21C0-TS00ZWR has a documented scan rate of 92 min / 104 typical / 116 max scans per second (bi-directional), which provides a concrete throughput benchmark. No scan-rate figure is provided in the supplied specs for the 8690IB201-2-N, so a direct numerical comparison cannot be made. Buyers for whom cycle-count throughput is a procurement criterion should request scan-rate data from Honeywell before making a final decision.
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