ISBN Barcode Generator
Generate the EAN barcode for a book from its ISBN-13 or ISBN-10, with an optional 5 digit price add-on. The tool verifies the check digit, converts an ISBN-10 to its 978 form and, when you type the hyphens, prints the ISBN line above the bars. Publishers and self publishing authors get a PNG or SVG ready for the back cover, with adjustable scale and bar height.
Frequently asked questions
What do I enter in the ISBN Barcode Generator?
Enter an ISBN-13 starting with 978 or 979, with or without its check digit, or an ISBN-10 with its check digit, which may be X. A leading ISBN label is ignored. The check digit is verified and a wrong one is refused with the correct one shown.
Why should I type the hyphens?
With hyphens in their registered places, for example 978-1-56581-231-4, the tool prints the familiar ISBN line above the bars. Without hyphens it draws the same EAN-13 barcode with the digits below, because the position of the hyphens depends on the registration group and publisher and cannot be guessed.
What happens to an ISBN-10?
Book barcodes always carry the 13 digit form, so an ISBN-10 is converted by adding the 978 prefix and calculating a new check digit. For example 1-56581-231-X becomes 978-1-56581-231-4.
How do I add the price add-on?
Enter 5 digits in the add-on field. In the United States the first digit is the currency, 5 for US dollars, followed by the price, so 52495 means 24.95 dollars, and 90000 means no suggested price. A 2 digit add-on is also accepted.
Which format should I choose for the ISBN barcode?
SVG is a vector file that stays sharp at any size, which suits print artwork and design software. PNG is a raster image that works everywhere, including office documents and label printers. Both have a white background and a white margin around the symbol.
What size should the barcode be on a book cover?
Book barcodes are usually printed at 80 to 100 percent of the nominal EAN-13 size, which is about 37 by 26 millimeters. Download the SVG and scale it in your cover layout, or use a PNG at scale 4 or higher for print at 300 DPI.
Can I change the bar height or hide the text?
Yes. The bar height accepts 5 to 50 millimeters and the human readable text option removes both the digits and the ISBN line. Booksellers expect the text, so keep it on covers.
Where do I get an ISBN?
ISBNs are sold by the national ISBN agency of your country, such as Bowker in the United States or Nielsen in the United Kingdom. This tool draws the barcode for an ISBN you already have.
Is an ISBN barcode different from an EAN-13?
The bars are an ordinary EAN-13 symbol whose number starts with 978 or 979, the prefix GS1 reserved for books, sometimes called Bookland. Only the ISBN line above the bars sets it apart.
Is my ISBN stored?
No. It is used only to draw the barcode image you download.