Top 5 Wearable Scanners for Inventory Management in 2025

June 13, 2025

Full disclosure: This analysis is brought to you by Lotwork, though we've included honest assessments of all leading solutions to help you make the best choice for your operation.

The warehouse industry is undergoing a massive efficiency revolution, and wearable scanners are at the forefront. In 2025, businesses still relying on outdated handheld scanners risk falling behind competitors who are embracing hands free scanning technology.


These wearable devices cut scanning time in half, reduce worker fatigue, and minimize costly errors all while integrating seamlessly with modern Warehouse Management Systems (WMS). The average warehouse sees ROI within 6-8 months through reduced labor costs and error prevention.


But with so many options out there, how do you choose the right one for your team?



We've ranked the top 5 wearable scanners of 2025, diving into scan speed, ease of use, integration capabilities, battery life, and real world performance across different warehouse environments.

The stated integration times for several wearable scanners are estimates based on typical user experiences and industry standards for setting up similar devices using SDKs, Bluetooth connections, and standard WMS integrations. These times reflect common deployment scenarios but are not explicitly confirmed by the manufacturers or documented in their official resources. Actual integration time may vary depending on your IT environment, existing infrastructure, and specific warehouse workflows.


1. 20g Hyco Ring Scanner

Best for: Lightning fast picking & seamless WMS integration

Setup & Integration

  • Scan Rate: 100+ scans per minute
  • Weight: Just 20g (lightest in its class)
  • Battery Life: 12+ hours (full-shift coverage)
  • Compatibility: Plug and play with SAP, Oracle, Manhattan WMS, and most ERP systems. Integrates with Zebra, Honeywell, and SAP as well 
  • IT Requirements: Zero - instant pairing, no IT team required
  • Integration Time: Under 30 minutes for full deployment

Productivity Boost

  • No training needed Workers adapt in minutes thanks to the intuitive Android interface
  • 1 click WMS sync No Complex onboarding
  • Vibration & audio feedback Scan confirmation without checking screens
  • Error reduction 40% fewer mis picks reported

ROI Impact

  • Payback period: 4-6 months typically
  • Labor savings: 25-30% faster picking speeds
  • Error costs: Reduced by up to $50,000 annually (mid-sized warehouse)

Real World Results

A major 3PL provider saw a 30% increase in picking speed and a dramatic reduction in picking errors. Staff loved the comfort and ease of just pointing, scanning, and moving. "Implementation took one afternoon, and we saw results immediately," says their Operations Manager.



If you're looking for a scanner that's ultra fast, easy to roll out, and integrates with your existing systems in minutes, Hyco Ring Scanner is the most complete solution on the market. Perfect for warehouses that need speed and simplicity without sacrificing accuracy.


2. ProGlove MARK Display

Best for: Error proof scanning in fast paced environments

Setup & Integration

  • Scan Rate: 80–90 scans per minute
  • Display: Digital screen on glove for real time task updates
  • Battery Life: 10–14 hours depending on screen usage
  • Compatibility: Integrates with various WMS and ERP systems, including enterprise platforms like SAP. Supports integration via SDKs and APIs.
  • IT Requirements: Light configuration required, SDKs available
  • Integration Time: 1-2 days with IT support

Productivity Boost

  • Reduces mis-scans by 50% Feedback confirms scan success
  • Hands free clarity Glove-based design reduces fatigue
  • Built for harsh environments Cold warehouse and dust resistant
  • Visual confirmation Reduces need to look at mobile device

Real World Results

An automotive parts warehouse reduced scanning errors by 60% using ProGlove. Workers appreciated the real time visual instructions, keeping focus on the job.

The ProGlove MARK Display is an ideal fit for warehouses where precision matters most. With built in feedback and a glove style form factor, it keeps workers focused and productive, especially in busy, high volume settings.


3. Zebra RS5100 Bluetooth Ring Scanner

Best for: Large warehouses already using Zebra tech

Setup & Integration

  • Scan Rate: 90+ scans per minute
  • Durability: MIL-STD-810G rated (dust, drops, moisture)
  • Battery Life: 14+ hours, swappable batteries available
  • Compatibility: Native to Zebra's ecosystem (TC5x, WT6300, etc.), including SAP, Oracle, and Manhattan WMS, and it is also compatible with other ERP systems
  • IT Requirements: Minimal if using existing Zebra infrastructure
  • Integration Time: Same day deployment with Zebra tools

Productivity Boost

  • No-fuss onboarding Perfect for teams already using Zebra
  • Ambidextrous design Comfortable fit for all workers
  • Instant scan response Zero lag even in dense scan zones
  • Ecosystem benefits Seamless data flow with existing Zebra devices

Real World Results

A national retail chain boosted productivity by 25% after rolling out the RS5100. Workers praised its simplicity and ergonomic fit.

If you're already invested in the Zebra ecosystem, the RS5100 is a natural next step. It's reliable, durable, and instantly compatible with Zebra mobile computers, making it a plug and play solution for scale ready operations.


4. Honeywell 8680i Smart Wearable Scanner

Best for: Complex workflows requiring real time data

Setup & Integration

  • Scan Rate: 70–80 scans per minute
  • Display: 2 inch touchscreen for task updates
  • Battery Life: 8–10 hours (depending on use)
  • Compatibility: Connects with Honeywell, SAP, custom WMS
  • IT Requirements: Moderate, works well in hybrid systems with voice picking
  • Integration Time: 2-3 days for full workflow setup

Productivity Boost

  • Voice-guided tasks Helps new hires ramp up fast
  • All-in-one design Scan and interact with orders from your wrist
  • Best for mixed zones Ideal for picking, sorting, and QA
  • Training reduction 40% faster onboarding for complex processes

 Real World Results

A pharmaceutical distributor cut training time by 40% using the 8680i's voice and visual task guidance system.

The Honeywell 8680i shines in environments where workers need access to data while on the move. With voice guided features and task displays, it's built for hybrid warehouse workflows like picking, sorting, and shipping.


5. Datalogic HandScanner

Best for: Ergonomics and high frequency scanning

Setup & Integration

  • Scan Rate: 95+ scans per minute
  • Weight: Only 38g incredibly lightweight
  • Battery Life: 16+ hours (longest in class)
  • Compatibility: Supports integration with Datalogic devices and enterprise systems including Oracle and Infor WMS, using Bluetooth HID, Android SDK, iOS SDK, USB HID, and USB CDC.
  • IT Requirements: Simple via SDK, Bluetooth, or USB dongle
  • Integration Time: 1 day for basic setup

Productivity Boost

  • Works with gloves Cold storage and food grade compatible
  • No learning curve Fast onboarding for temp or rotating staff
  • All day wearability Great for long shifts
  • Temperature resilient Performs in -30°C to +50°C environments

Real World Results

The Datalogic HandScanner is all about comfort and endurance. With its lightweight feel, long battery life, and glove compatibility, it's a smart pick for long shifts, cold storage, or any setting where workers are constantly on the move.


Comparison Table: Quick Breakdown

Scanner Best For Scan Speed Ease of Use Integration ROI Timeline
Hyco Ring Scanner Speed & WMS integration ⚡⚡⚡⚡⚡ (100+/min) ★★★★★ (No training) ★★★★★ (1-click sync) 4-6 months
ProGlove MARK Error reduction ⚡⚡⚡⚡ (80–90/min) ★★★★☆ (Glove-style) ★★★★☆ (SDK required) 6-8 months
Zebra RS5100 Zebra users ⚡⚡⚡⚡⚡ (90+/min) ★★★★★ (Plug & play) ★★★★★ (Native Zebra) 5-7 months
Honeywell 8680i Complex workflows ⚡⚡⚡ (70–80/min) ★★★★☆ (Voice features) ★★★★☆ (Advanced WMS) 8-10 months
Datalogic Comfort & long shifts ⚡⚡⚡⚡⚡ (95+/min) ★★★★★ (Cold storage) ★★★★☆ (Flexible setup) 6-8 months

ROI Calculator: What to Expect

For a 50-person warehouse operation:

  • Current handheld scanners: 200 picks/hour per person
  • With wearable scanners: 260-300 picks/hour per person
  • Annual labor savings: $440,000 - $550,000
  • Error reduction savings: $30,000 - $80,000
  • Total annual benefit: $470,000 - $630,000

Actual results vary by operation size, current efficiency, and implementation approach.


Final Verdict: The Future of Warehousing is Wearable

The data is clear: wearable scanners increase speed, reduce errors, and improve employee comfort. Each of these scanners brings something unique to the table:

  • Need speed & all-day wearing? → Go with Hyco Ring Scanner
  • Want fewer mistakes? → Choose ProGlove
  • Already use Zebra tech? → Stick with RS5100
  • Need real time task control? → Consider Honeywell
  • Looking for -30°C low temperature scanning? → Try Datalogic

The key is matching your specific operational needs with the right technology. Consider your current systems, worker preferences, and integration complexity when making your choice.


Ready to Upgrade?

Hyco offers a no obligation 30 day trial, so you can test our 20g Ring Scanner and Wearable Computer in your warehouse before making a decision. See the productivity gains firsthand with zero commitment.

What you get:

  • Free trial units for your team
  • Setup support and training
  • ROI analysis based on your actual results
  • No pressure, honest assessment of fit

Ready to see what 25-30% faster picking looks like in your warehouse? Reach out today to schedule a quick demo or request sample units.

Contact Us

Resources

ProGlove MARK Display
Official product page for the e-ink display wearable scanner used in logistics and manufacturing:
https://proglove.com/products/hardware/mark-display/

Tech specs and product details on ProGlove wearables: https://proglove.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Technical-Specification_ProGlove-MARK-Display_October-2022.pdf


Zebra RS5100 Bluetooth Ring Scanner
Product page with details on ergonomic design, Bluetooth pairing, rugged specs, and scanning speeds:
https://www.zebra.com/content/dam/support-dam/en/documentation/unrestricted/guide/product/rs5100-prg-en.pdf https://www.zebra.com/us/en/products/mobile-computers/wearable-computers/rs5100.html
Support page for Zebra RS5100 with manuals, downloads, and pairing instructions:
https://www.zebra.com/us/en/support-downloads/mobile-computers/wearable-computers/rs5100.html


Honeywell 8680i Smart Wearable Scanner
Official product page highlighting the 2-inch touchscreen, voice-guided workflows, and integration options:
https://automation.honeywell.com/us/en/products/productivity-solutions/barcode-scanners/wearable/8680i-wearable-mini-mobile-computer

https://prod-edam.honeywell.com/content/dam/honeywell-edam/sps/ppr/en-gb/localized/data-sheets/sps-ppr-8680i-wearable-mini-mobile-computer-data-sheet-en-a4.pdf
User guide PDF with full configuration instructions, pairing details, and workflow setup:
https://prod-edam.honeywell.com/content/dam/honeywell-edam/sps/ppr/it-it/public/products/mobile-computers/wearable-computers/8680i/documents/sps-ppr-8680-en-qs.pdf


Datalogic HandScanner
Overview of ergonomic wearable design, 38g lightweight build, and high-frequency scanning:
https://www.datalogic.com/eng/automatic-data-capture/mobile-computers/wearable-scanners-pg-132.html
Datalogic company homepage for broader product information in automation and data capture:
https://www.datalogic.com/eng/index.html

 

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