The Good
- Good barcode scanner
- Includes in-store flyers
- Extensive item database
The Bad
- Categories are often wrong
Shopper (US$0.99) is one of my favorite grocery list apps. It includes a large item database, functional barcode scanner, and many unique features that set it apart from the competition.
Read more in our list of the top iPhone grocery apps.
Excellent features, but some weird categorization
Shopper includes a variety of example shopping lists, so it is easy to get started. You can create multiple lists by scanning an item's barcode or searching by keyword. The barcode scanner is supported by RedLaser (one of my top picks for barcode scanners), so I was expecting it to work well. Fortunately, it does. The app processes scans relatively quickly, and the item database includes even lesser known brands. However, it does take time to scan each individual item; I find it much quicker to just search by keyword.
The database is extensive, and -- unlike the Shopping List app -- Shopper has robust auto-fill functionality that brings up helpful suggestions based on the first few letters you type.
Shopper automatically sorts items into categories, but I noticed they weren’t always correct. For example, Kashi cereal was sorted under the Beverages and Tobacco tab, and sushi was listed under Books. Oh, and wine showed up under the Appliances category. You can manually change the aisle or category, but it is kind of a pain when you have to do that for nearly every item.
In-store flyers and reminders
The Shopper app includes a number of features that I really appreciate, including the ability to create reminders or view flyers for nearby grocery stores. Both of these features are rather unique among grocery list apps. The flyers are particularly useful -- they are nicely formatted, easy to view, and are even searchable by keyword. If you find a particularly good deal in any of the flyers, you can share it via Facebook, Twitter, or email. You can also add it to your shopping lists as a reminder.
Even though it is a paid app, Shopper includes a large amount of ads. You can get rid of them by purchasing an annual subscription for US$1.99 via an in-app purchase.
The Bottom Line
Other than some wonky categories, Shopper is easy to recommend. The app isn’t overly expensive (a common complaint I have with shopping list apps), and it includes a host of nice-to-have features. I particularly like the in-store flyers and ability to create reminders. This one should be at the top of your list. Overall rating: 4.5 stars out of 5.
What You’ll Need
The Shopper app is compatible with the iPhone, iPod touch, and iPad. It requires iPhone OS 4.0 or later.