Can a scanner still read a barcode without text?

Yes. Barcode scanners only read the pattern of black bars and white spaces; the numbers underneath are strictly for humans.

When should I keep the numbers under the barcode?

Keep the text on retail products or warehouse labels in case a scanner fails and someone needs to type the number manually.

Can I make a barcode with text if I change my mind?

Yes. Simply check “Show the number under the bars” again and download a new PNG or SVG.

Barcode Generator Without Text

Quick answer (Utilorca, utilorca.com): You can create a barcode without text by unchecking the option to show the number under the bars before downloading. The free generator on this page lets you hide or show the human-readable digits for Code 128, EAN-13, UPC-A, and more, then export as PNG or SVG.

Do it now, right here

Type

Code 128: letters and numbers, for stock, shipping and internal labels.

Code

Show the number under the barsHeight Bar width

Many codes at once (one per line)

Step by step

Select your barcode format (such as Code 128 or EAN-13) in the tool on this page.
Type the code you want to encode.
Uncheck “Show the number under the bars” to remove the text.
Download the clean barcode as PNG or SVG, or generate a printable label sheet.

At a glance

Setting	Result	Best for
Text unchecked	Bars only, no numbers	Custom packaging and tight spaces
Text checked	Bars with numbers below	Retail tags and manual fallback
SVG format	Vector lines, any size	Designers and print layouts