Zebra LI2208 vs Datalogic GD4590-HCK10-HDR-B: Specification Comparison
Both the Zebra LI2208 and the Datalogic Gryphon I GD4590-HCK10-HDR-B are corded handheld barcode scanners intended for retail, warehouse, and light industrial point-of-scan deployments. The core difference is scan engine generation: the LI2208 is a 1D linear imager reading laser-style bar codes only, while the GD4590 is a 2D area imager capable of reading both traditional 1D symbologies and 2D codes such as QR Code, Data Matrix, and PDF417. Buyers cross-shopping these two are typically evaluating whether their workflow requires 2D capability or whether a proven, cost-effective 1D imager is sufficient.
In This Guide
- Which scanner handles the symbologies and scan speeds your workflow actually requires?
- How do read distance, physical size, and daily-use comfort compare?
- Which unit is better sealed, better connected, and easier to integrate into existing infrastructure?
- Which should you choose: the LI2208 or the GD4590-HCK10-HDR-B?
- Side-by-Side Specs
- FAQ
Which scanner handles the symbologies and scan speeds your workflow actually requires?
The Zebra LI2208 is a 1D linear imager. Its specified symbology coverage is not itemized in the provided specs, but as a linear imager it is limited to 1D bar codes (e.g., Code 39, UPC, EAN class codes read via a single bright aiming line). Its scan speed is a stated 547 scans per second with a motion tolerance of 25 in./63.5 cm per second — both figures that indicate strong throughput for high-volume 1D scanning.
The Datalogic GD4590-HCK10-HDR-B uses a 2D area imager engine and explicitly supports QR Code, Data Matrix, PDF417, Code 39, UPC, and EAN. This makes it the only option of the two for workflows involving mobile-phone screen scanning, serialised 2D labels, GS1 DataMatrix pharmaceutical codes, or PDF417 ID documents. Datalogic does not publish a scans-per-second figure or a motion tolerance figure in the provided specs, so a direct throughput comparison on those metrics cannot be made.
For pure 1D scanning volume the LI2208 offers a quantified speed advantage on paper; for any environment where 2D codes are present or anticipated, the GD4590 is the only viable choice between these two.
How do read distance, physical size, and daily-use comfort compare?
The LI2208 provides detailed decode-range data by mil size: 1–31 in. (2.5–78.7 cm) at 13 mil, 3–55 in. (7.6–140 cm) at 26 mil, and beyond 20 ft./6 m at 100 mil. These ranges confirm standard-range performance appropriate for hands-on countertop or shelf scanning. Angular tolerances are ±65° skew, ±65° pitch, and ±45° roll. No equivalent decode-range data is supplied for the GD4590, so a numeric read-distance comparison cannot be made.
On physical dimensions, the LI2208 measures 6.30 in. H × 2.64 in. W × 3.90 in. L and weighs 140 g (4.95 oz). The GD4590 measures 6.5 in. H × 2.7 in. W × 4.3 in. L and carries a stated weight of 161 g (5.7 oz) in one spec field and 222 g in another (the discrepancy in the provided data is noted; the heavier figure likely reflects the unit with its integrated Li-Ion battery). The LI2208 is measurably smaller and lighter on all three axes compared to the GD4590's larger footprint.
The GD4590 includes an integrated 3,250 mAh Li-Ion battery and Bluetooth 4.0, implying a cordless-capable variant exists within its family; the LI2208 is corded-only with no battery. Neither unit's ergonomic grip ratings, trigger-force specs, or trigger-life cycles are provided.
Which unit is better sealed, better connected, and easier to integrate into existing infrastructure?
The LI2208 carries an IP42 environmental sealing rating, a drop specification of over 100 drops at 5 ft./1.5 m, and 1,000 tumble cycles (2,000 drops). The GD4590 is rated IP52, which offers one step better particulate protection (fully dust-protected vs. IP42's partial protection) and equivalent liquid ingress protection at level 2. Neither unit is rated for wash-down or outdoor exposure. No drop or tumble specifications are provided for the GD4590.
Interface coverage overlaps substantially: both support USB, RS-232, and Keyboard Wedge. The LI2208 additionally lists IBM RS485 — relevant in legacy IBM POS environments — while the GD4590 adds Bluetooth 4.0, which the LI2208 does not offer. The LI2208 specifies voltage at 5 VDC ±10% with maximum handheld draw under 165 mA and USB suspend current under 2.5 mA; no equivalent power-draw figures are available for the GD4590.
The LI2208 lists explicit regulatory marks: FCC Part 15 Class B, ICES 003 Class B, and electrical safety to C22.2 No. 60950-1, EN 60950-1, IEC 60950-1, and UL 60950-1. The GD4590's regulatory certifications are not itemized in the provided specs. Both carry a five-year warranty.
Which should you choose: the LI2208 or the GD4590-HCK10-HDR-B?
Our take: The LI2208 is the stronger choice when the deployment is 1D-only, cost-sensitivity is high, and the installation environment includes legacy IBM RS485 POS infrastructure. It delivers a quantified 547 scans/sec throughput, documented drop and tumble ratings, explicit regulatory certifications, and a lighter 140 g body — all spec-confirmed advantages. The GD4590-HCK10-HDR-B is the necessary choice whenever 2D symbologies (QR Code, Data Matrix, PDF417) must be read: the LI2208 physically cannot decode them. The GD4590 also edges out the LI2208 on ingress protection (IP52 vs. IP42) and adds Bluetooth 4.0 for flexible cordless connectivity. Choose the LI2208 for high-volume 1D retail or warehouse lines on proven Zebra infrastructure; choose the GD4590 for any environment where 2D codes, mobile screen scanning, or wireless roaming capability are present or planned.
Side-by-Side Comparison
Spec-for-spec, from manufacturer data.
| Specification | Zebra LI2208 | Datalogic GD4590-HCK10-HDR-B |
|---|---|---|
| Scan Engine Type | 1D Linear Imager | 2D Area Imager |
| 2D Symbology Support | No | QR Code, Data Matrix, PDF417 |
| 1D Symbology Support | Not itemized in specs | Code 39, UPC, EAN |
| Scan Speed | 547 scans/sec | — |
| Motion Tolerance | 25 in./63.5 cm per sec | — |
| Decode Range (13 mil) | 1–31 in. (2.5–78.7 cm) | — |
| Decode Range (26 mil) | 3–55 in. (7.6–140 cm) | — |
| Decode Range (100 mil) | >20 ft. (6 m) | — |
| IP Rating | IP42 | IP52 |
| Drop Specification | >100 drops at 5 ft./1.5 m | — |
| Tumble Testing | 1,000 cycles (2,000 drops) | — |
| Weight | 140 g (4.95 oz) | 161 g spec / 222 g alt spec |
| Dimensions (H × W × D) | 6.30 × 2.64 × 3.90 in. | 6.5 × 2.7 × 4.3 in. |
| Interfaces | USB, RS-232, Keyboard Wedge, IBM RS485 | USB, RS-232, Keyboard Wedge, Bluetooth 4.0 |
| Wireless / Bluetooth | None | Bluetooth 4.0 |
| Battery | None (corded) | 3,250 mAh Li-Ion |
| Warranty | 60 months | 60 months (5-year) |
| Operating Temperature | 0°C to 50°C (32°F to 122°F) | — |
| Storage Temperature | -40°C to 70°C (-40°F to 158°F) | — |
| Input Voltage | 5 VDC ±10% | — |
| Max Current (Active) | <165 mA | — |
| Light Source | LED 617 nm (amber) | — |
| Skew / Pitch Tolerance | ±65° / ±65° | — |
| Good-Read Feedback | — | Green Spot visual confirmation |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which should you choose: the LI2208 or the GD4590-HCK10-HDR-B?
The LI2208 is the stronger choice when the deployment is 1D-only, cost-sensitivity is high, and the installation environment includes legacy IBM RS485 POS infrastructure. It delivers a quantified 547 scans/sec throughput, documented drop and tumble ratings, explicit regulatory certifications, and a lighter 140 g body — all spec-confirmed advantages. The GD4590-HCK10-HDR-B is the necessary choice whenever 2D symbologies (QR Code, Data Matrix, PDF417) must be read: the LI2208 physically cannot decode them. The GD4590 also edges out the LI2208 on ingress protection (IP52 vs. IP42) and adds Bluetooth 4.0 for flexible cordless connectivity. Choose the LI2208 for high-volume 1D retail or warehouse lines on proven Zebra infrastructure; choose the GD4590 for any environment where 2D codes, mobile screen scanning, or wireless roaming capability are present or planned.
Can the LI2208 read QR codes or 2D barcodes like the GD4590?
No. The LI2208 is a 1D linear imager; its single-line scan pattern is physically incapable of decoding 2D symbologies such as QR Code, Data Matrix, or PDF417. The GD4590 uses a 2D area imager engine and explicitly supports all of those formats. If your workflow involves any 2D codes, the GD4590 is the only option between these two.
Is the Datalogic GD4590 more durable than the Zebra LI2208?
The GD4590 holds a slightly better IP52 particulate seal versus the LI2208's IP42, meaning the GD4590 is fully dust-protected while the LI2208 is partially dust-protected; liquid ingress resistance is equivalent at level 2 for both. However, the LI2208 provides documented drop and tumble test results (100+ drops at 5 ft. and 1,000 tumble cycles) whereas no equivalent drop or tumble data is included in the GD4590's provided specifications, so a complete durability comparison cannot be made from available data alone.
Which scanner is better for a mixed retail and warehouse deployment where staff move between fixed counters and open floor areas?
The GD4590-HCK10-HDR-B is the more flexible choice for mixed environments: it reads both 1D and 2D codes and includes Bluetooth 4.0, which supports cordless roaming on the floor without being tethered to a fixed terminal. The LI2208 is corded-only and 1D-only. If the entire deployment is 1D and all scan points are fixed workstations — particularly those with IBM RS485 legacy POS terminals — the LI2208's documented speed and lighter weight make it a practical fit, but it cannot serve any 2D or mobile-scanning need.
More Barcode Scanner Comparisons
- Zebra DS8108 vs Datalogic GBT4600-HC-BTK1-HP
- Zebra DS8108 vs Datalogic GD4590-HCK10-HDR-B
- Zebra DS8108 vs Honeywell 1202G-2USB-5BF-N
- Zebra DS8108 vs Datalogic GBT4500-BK-BTK1DRA
- Zebra DS8108 vs Zebra DS3608
- Zebra DS8108 vs Zebra LI3608
Barcode Scanner Buying Guides
Get a Second Opinion on Your Camera Choice
Share your site layout, coverage goals, and budget. Our team will validate the camera selection, flag anything we would change, and recommend products that match the use case.