Zebra Symbol LS2208 Handheld 1D Laser Barcode Scanner

What is the Zebra Symbol LS2208?

The Zebra Symbol LS2208 is a corded, handheld 1 D laser barcode scanner built for general-purpose scanning applications (retail, healthcare, point of sale) by Zebra Technologies. Zebra Technologies+2Zebra Technologies+2
It’s widely adopted — described by Zebra as “our best selling handheld laser scanner”. Zebra Technologies+1
It supports reading standard one-dimensional barcodes (UPC/EAN/code-39 etc) with a laser scan engine, offering reliable performance and cost-effectiveness.

Key Features & Benefits

Reliable 1D barcode scanning

• Designed to scan standard 1-D symbologies: Code 39, Code 128, Codabar, Interleaved 2 of 5, GS1 DataBar, UPC/EAN. Zebra Technologies+1

• Wide working range: for example, 13 mil UPC/EAN barcodes can be captured from over 25 in / 63.5 cm away. Zebra Technologies+1

• Fast scan rate: Rated at ~100 scans per second. CDW+1

Durable & ergonomic design

• Compact dimensions (6.0 in × 2.5 in × 3.3 in / ~15.2 cm ×6.4 cm ×8.5 cm) and lightweight (~150 g). Zebra Technologies+1

• Tested for multiple drops from ~5 ft / 1.5 m to concrete. Electronic Imaging Materials+1

• Scratch-resistant tempered glass exit window and patented single-board construction for reliability. RS Components+1

• Ergonomic form factor reduces user fatigue in high-volume scanning environments. Zebra Technologies+1

Plug-and-play simplicity + global support

• Multiple host interfaces supported: USB, RS-232, Keyboard Wedge, IBM 46XX over RS485. Zebra Technologies

• Universal cable compatibility simplifies deployment and future-proofing. RS Components+1

• Supports 90+ international keyboards for global deployment. RS Components+1

Low total cost of ownership

• Proven reliability reduces downtime and maintenance.

• Designed for continuous usage all day, every day. Electronic Imaging Materials

• Accessory options (hands-free stand) allow versatile scanning modes: handheld or presentation. RS Components

Technical Specifications (Highlights)

• Light source: 650 nm laser diode, Class 2. Zebra Technologies

• Dimensions: 6.0 in (H) × 2.5 in (W) × 3.3 in (D) (~15.2 cm ×6.4 cm ×8.5 cm) Zebra Technologies+1

• Weight: ~5.3 oz / ~150 g. Zebra Technologies

• Operating temperature: 0 °C to 50 °C (32° to 122° F). RS Components+1

• Storage temperature: –40 °C to 70 °C (–40° to 158° F). Zebra Technologies

• Drop specification: multiple drops from 1.5 m to concrete. Electronic Imaging Materials

• Data interfaces: USB, RS-232, Keyboard Wedge, IBM 46XX over RS485. Zebra Technologies

• Decode performance: e.g., Code 39: minimum element resolution ~3.0 mil. Zebra Technologies

Ideal Applications & Use-Cases

• Retail / Point of Sale (POS): The LS2208 is optimized for checkout counters, barcode scanning of packaged goods, coupon codes and customer loyalty cards. Zebra Technologies+1

• Education & Libraries: Inventory tracking, book check-outs, asset tagging thanks to its ease-of-use and durable build. RS Components

• Healthcare & Light Logistics: While primarily retail-focused, its reliability and ease of integration make it suitable for light scanning workflows in clinics, pharmacies, or shipping zones. Zebra Technologies

• General usage in offices/warehouses: Anywhere a dependable 1D scanner is required without ultra-rugged or 2D barcode needs.

Why Choose LS2208 & What to Consider

Why Choose

• Affordable price point relative to advanced scanners

• Mature product with millions in use, proven reliability

• Excellent for standard 1D barcode workflows

• Global support & simple setup (plug-and-play)

Things to Consider

• It is a 1D laser scanner only; if you need to scan 2D barcodes (QR codes, DataMatrix) you’ll need a 2D imager instead.

• Corded design means it’s not wireless; if mobility/cordless are required you’ll want a Bluetooth or wireless scanner.

• While durable, it is not “ultra-rugged” (industrial shock/vibration environments may require higher spec)

• Ensure the interface/cable provided matches your host system (USB vs RS-232 etc)