# Scan Matrix vs Universal Code Scanner

The clearest difference is rating: Universal Code Scanner at 5.0 against Scan Matrix's 4.0. Universal Code Scanner also leads on iOS requirement (12.0 vs 15.6). Scan Matrix's advantage is in-app purchases (none vs 3). On price, ratings volume, update cadence and ads there is nothing between them.

Both are free to download. Universal Code Scanner sells 3 one-off in-app purchases. Scan Matrix asks for nothing beyond the download.

Universal Code Scanner holds the better App Store score, 5.0 against 4.0. Both are backed by a comparable volume of ratings — 1 and 1 respectively.

Scan Matrix ships an update every 5 weeks, Universal Code Scanner every 3 weeks. The most recent releases landed on July 7, 2026 and August 26, 2026 respectively.

## The numbers

| Metric | Scan Matrix | Universal Code Scanner |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Price | Free | Free |
| Rating | [4.0 (1 ratings)](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/scan-matrix/id1552318346/reviews) | **[5.0 (1 ratings)](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/universal-code-scanner/id1597726866/reviews)** |
| Number of ratings | 1 | 1 |
| Positive reviews | — | 71.4% of reviews |
| In-app purchases | **No** | Yes |
| Ads | No | No |
| Update frequency | Every 5 weeks | **Every 3 weeks** |
| Monetization | Free | Free |
| Size | 59 MB | 3 MB |
| Requires iOS | 15.6 | **12.0** |
| Devices | iPhone, iPad, iPod | **iPhone, iPad, iPod, Mac** |
| Age rating | 4+ | 4+ |
| Developer | [Johnson & Johnson Services, Inc](https://appshunter.io/developer/435808499) | [Marcus Pleintinger](https://appshunter.io/developer/938374594) |

## What reviewers say

### Scan Matrix

[App page](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/scan-matrix/id1552318346)

This utility app scans various barcode types and connects to GS1 resolvers for barcode information. It features history management, manual input, and an updated user interface for enhanced usability.

**Highlights:** Supports multiple barcode types (GS1-128, DataMatrix, QR Code, etc.), Connects to GS1 and my.code.de resolvers, Scan history management, Pin favorite barcodes, Manual barcode input (GTIN/batch numbers), Updated user interface

**Features:** macOS Compatibility

**In-app purchases:** none


### Universal Code Scanner

[App page](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/universal-code-scanner/id1597726866)

This app quickly scans and decodes various 2D barcodes and QR codes. It offers enhanced security by checking URLs for phishing and can convert specific payment codes into usable links. The application prioritizes user privacy with no tracking or ads.

**Highlights:** Scans QR, EAN, Aztec, DataMatrix, and more, Checks URLs against phishing (Quishing), Converts EPC QR codes to bank/payto URLs, Shares decoded data via Airdrop, No user tracking or analytics, Ad-free and no in-app purchases

**Features:** Vision Pro support

**In-app purchases (3)**

| Purchase | Price | Billing |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Small Donation | $0.99 | one-time |
| Mid Donation | $2.99 | one-time |
| Big Donation | $5.99 | one-time |


## Frequently asked questions

### Is Scan Matrix free?

Scan Matrix is free to download, with no in-app purchases.

### Is Universal Code Scanner free?

Universal Code Scanner is free to download, with in-app purchases available.

### Which has better reviews, Scan Matrix or Universal Code Scanner?

Universal Code Scanner is rated higher. Scan Matrix averages 4.0 out of 5 from 1 ratings, while Universal Code Scanner averages 5.0 from 1 ratings.

### Do Scan Matrix or Universal Code Scanner have ads?

Neither Scan Matrix nor Universal Code Scanner shows ads.

### Which is updated more often, Scan Matrix or Universal Code Scanner?

Scan Matrix ships an update every 5 weeks, and Universal Code Scanner every 3 weeks. Most recently, Scan Matrix was updated on July 7, 2026 and Universal Code Scanner on August 26, 2026.

---

*Compared by [AppsHunter](https://appshunter.io/) from daily US App Store data. Review summaries are generated from verbatim App Store reviews.*