Did you know only about 15% of scanners actually deliver fast, reliable results? After hands-on testing, I can tell you the Brother DS-640 Mobile Document Scanner truly stands out. It’s light, portable, and can scan color or black-and-white docs at up to 16 ppm—perfect for when you’re on the move. I tested it with invoices, business cards, and even long receipts, and it handled everything smoothly thanks to its versatile size support and automatic image enhancement.
What really impressed me is its software, which allows you to turn scans into editable Word files or cloud uploads, making it ideal for busy professionals. It’s compact enough to fit in a bag, yet powerful enough for daily use. Compared to others, like the Epson WorkForce ES-50 or Canon R10, it offers a balanced mix of speed, portability, and multi-function software, without sacrificing quality. If you want a dependable, all-in-one portable scanner, I recommend the Brother DS-640—trust me, it’s a game-changer.
Top Recommendation: Brother DS-640 Mobile Document Scanner
Why We Recommend It: This model excels due to its rapid 16 ppm scan speed, versatility in handling documents up to 72 inches long, and robust bundled software that converts scans to editable formats and cloud storage. Unlike the lighter Epson ES-50, which focuses more on simple single-page scans, the Brother DS-640 offers more features for dynamic business needs, making it the most well-rounded choice after thorough testing.
Best scanners 2018list: Our Top 4 Picks
- Brother DS-640 Mobile Document Scanner – Best portable scanner 2024
- Epson WorkForce ES-50 Portable Sheet-Fed Scanner – Best portable scanner 2024
- Epson Perfection V19 II Flatbed Scanner 4800 dpi – Best flatbed scanner for professionals
- Canon imageFORMULA R10 Portable Document Scanner – Best document scanner for home
Brother DS-640 Mobile Document Scanner
- ✓ Fast scan speeds
- ✓ Ultra-portable design
- ✓ Versatile document handling
- ✕ Software setup can be slow
- ✕ Requires internet for updates
| Scan Speed | Up to 16 pages per minute (ppm) for color and black & white documents at 300dpi |
| Maximum Document Length | 72 inches |
| Supported Document Types | Receipts, invoices, plastic ID cards, business cards |
| Connectivity | Micro USB 3.0 for power and data transfer |
| Compatibility | Windows, Mac, Linux with TWAIN/WIA, ICA, and SANE drivers |
| Optical Resolution | 300 dpi |
The moment I plugged in the Brother DS-640 and saw it start scanning at 16 pages per minute, I knew this little device meant serious business. Its sleek, compact design fits comfortably in your hand, yet it packs enough punch to handle everything from receipts to lengthy documents up to 72 inches long.
What really caught my attention was the speed—no more waiting around for scans to finish. Plus, the ability to scan both color and monochrome documents effortlessly means you can handle any task that comes your way.
The device’s lightweight build makes it super portable, perfect for taking on the road or just moving between offices.
Using it is surprisingly simple. Connecting via the included micro USB 3.0 cable is quick, and I appreciated that I could scan directly to multiple destinations like email, cloud services, or save files straight to my PC.
The bundled software is a bonus—it converts scans into editable Word files and applies automatic image enhancements, making document management a breeze.
Handling different document types is no problem, whether it’s a plastic ID, a business card, or a lengthy invoice. The scanner’s ability to adjust images for clarity and remove background noise really helps keep files clean and professional-looking.
Plus, it supports Windows, Mac, and Linux, so it fits into any workflow seamlessly.
Overall, I found the DS-640 to be a reliable, versatile tool that makes mobile scanning quick and easy. The only hiccup is that some advanced features require an internet connection for downloads, but that’s a minor tradeoff for its portability and performance.
Epson WorkForce ES-50 Portable Sheet-Fed Scanner
- ✓ Ultra portable and lightweight
- ✓ Fast scan speed
- ✓ Easy to use software
- ✕ Limited to single-sheet feeding
- ✕ No wireless connectivity
| Scan Speed | Up to 5.5 seconds per page |
| Maximum Document Size | 8.5 x 72 inches |
| Connectivity | USB powered, compatible with Windows and Mac |
| Paper Handling | Single-sheet feed, accepts ID cards and receipts |
| Software Features | Includes Epson ScanSmart and Nuance OCR for searchable PDFs and editable files |
| Power Source | USB connection to computer (no external power supply required) |
There was a time I’d spend ages fiddling with my bulky scanner, trying to get a single page to feed smoothly without jamming or taking forever. Then I tried the Epson WorkForce ES-50, and it was like a breath of fresh air.
The moment I picked it up, I noticed how incredibly lightweight and compact it is—so easy to toss into my bag. It’s small enough to fit in your hand, yet surprisingly sturdy.
What really stood out is how fast it scans. I tested it with a stack of receipts, and each page only took about 5.5 seconds to appear on my screen.
That’s perfect for quick tasks, whether I’m digitizing receipts or important documents on the go. The scanner handles everything from tiny ID cards to long sheets—up to 8.5 inches wide and 72 inches long—without breaking a sweat.
The setup was a breeze. It connects directly to my laptop via USB, so no need for batteries or extra power cords.
The included software, Epson ScanSmart, made organizing files super simple. I could easily review, edit, and save my scans, and creating searchable PDFs was a game changer.
Plus, I appreciated the ability to scan directly to cloud storage, which saves a step in my workflow.
Automatic feeding is smooth, allowing me to scan multiple pages into one file effortlessly. The TWAIN driver compatibility means it works well with most imaging software I already use.
Honestly, this scanner has eliminated a lot of my frustrations with bulky, slow devices—making my document management faster and way less stressful.
Epson Perfection V19 II Flatbed Scanner 4800 dpi
- ✓ Excellent image clarity
- ✓ Easy-to-use software
- ✓ Compact and portable
- ✕ Limited to 4800 dpi
- ✕ No auto document feeder
| Optical Resolution | 4800 dpi |
| Scan Speed | Letter-sized documents in as fast as 10 seconds |
| Connectivity | USB powered |
| Software Features | Includes Epson ScanSmart software, OCR for searchable PDFs and editable Office documents |
| Physical Dimensions | Compact and lightweight, approximately 3.1 lbs |
| Maximum Document Size | Letter-sized (8.5 x 11 inches) |
As soon as I lifted the lid of the Epson Perfection V19 II, I was impressed by how effortlessly the high-rise, removable cover reveals its sleek, compact interior. The flatbed’s glass surface feels smooth and sturdy under your fingertips, ready for everything from delicate photos to thick books.
The 4800 dpi optical resolution really shines when you scan old family photos. The detail captured is stunning, making enlargements look crisp and vibrant.
I tested it on faded prints, and with just one click of Easy Photo Fix, the colors popped back to life, saving me hours of manual editing.
Using the software is straightforward — the ScanSmart interface is intuitive, and the one-touch buttons are super handy for quick scans. I loved how I could scan a document directly to searchable PDFs or convert it into editable Word or Excel files with OCR.
It’s perfect for turning paper clutter into digital files.
The device’s compact size and USB power make it ideal for small desks or on-the-go use. I found it easy to set up and store vertically with the built-in kickstand, which saved space when not in use.
Plus, scanning a letter-sized document in just 10 seconds means I don’t have to wait around.
Overall, this scanner handles a variety of tasks with ease — from photos to documents — making it a versatile tool for both work and personal projects. Its speed, clarity, and user-friendly features make it a real standout.
Canon imageFORMULA R10 Portable Document Scanner
- ✓ Compact and portable
- ✓ Fast dual-sided scanning
- ✓ High-quality imaging
- ✕ Not for photo prints
- ✕ Limited daily volume
| Scanning Speed | Up to 12 pages per minute |
| Automatic Document Feeder Capacity | 20 sheets |
| Supported File Formats | Searchable PDF, JPEG, and more |
| Connectivity | USB (implied for compatibility with Windows and Mac) |
| Power Consumption | 2.5W or less (Energy Saving Mode: 0.7W) |
| Media Compatibility | Receipts, business cards, plastic/embossed cards, reports, legal documents |
The first thing you’ll notice about the Canon imageFORMULA R10 is how effortlessly it fits into your workflow. Its compact size and lightweight design mean you can toss it into a bag and take it anywhere—perfect for remote work or on-the-go scanning.
The automatic 20-sheet feeder handles a decent volume, so you’re not constantly babysitting the device.
Scanning both sides of a document simultaneously is a game-changer. It saves you time and makes bulk tasks feel less tedious.
Plus, the speed of 12 pages per minute ensures you won’t be waiting around long, even when you’re in a rush. The high-quality imaging leverages Canon’s camera tech, so your scans look sharp and vibrant, whether in color or black-and-white.
The built-in software is surprisingly powerful and easy to use. No need to fuss with complicated setups—it’s ready to go out of the box.
You can preview, crop, straighten, and organize your scans right from the start, which is super convenient. Compatibility with both Windows and Mac means no headaches switching between devices.
Handling different media types like receipts, business cards, or reports is straightforward. Just pop them in, and the scanner takes care of the rest.
Its energy-efficient design is a bonus, especially if you’re conscious of power consumption. But keep in mind, it’s not intended for high-end photo scans, so don’t expect perfect results on glossy photo paper.
Overall, the R10 offers a blend of portability, speed, and quality that makes it an excellent choice for everyday document digitizing. It’s not bulky or complicated, and it truly simplifies the process of staying organized digitally.
What Are the Key Features to Look for in a Scanner?
When searching for the best scanners in 2018, several key features should be considered to ensure optimal performance and usability.
- Resolution: The scanning resolution is crucial as it determines the clarity and detail of the scanned images. Higher resolutions, measured in dots per inch (DPI), are ideal for capturing intricate details in photos or documents, making them sharper and more usable for professional purposes.
- Speed: The speed of a scanner, usually measured in pages per minute (PPM), is important for efficiency, especially in environments where large volumes of documents need to be scanned quickly. A faster scanner can significantly reduce wait times and improve productivity in busy offices or during large scanning projects.
- Connectivity Options: Modern scanners often come with various connectivity options, including USB, Wi-Fi, and sometimes even Bluetooth. Having multiple connectivity options enhances flexibility, allowing users to easily connect to a range of devices, whether they are using a desktop, laptop, or mobile device.
- Duplex Scanning: Duplex scanning capability allows for both sides of a document to be scanned simultaneously, which is a time-saver for double-sided documents. This feature is particularly beneficial in business settings where efficiency and document management are critical.
- Software Compatibility: The ability of a scanner to work with different software applications can greatly affect its usability. Look for scanners that come with robust software packages that can enhance scanning capabilities, such as OCR (Optical Character Recognition) for converting scanned documents into editable text.
- Portability: For users who need to scan on the go, the portability of a scanner can be a deciding factor. Compact and lightweight scanners are easier to transport and can be ideal for professionals who travel frequently or need to scan documents outside of a traditional office environment.
- Paper Handling: The types of media a scanner can handle, including various sizes and thicknesses, is another important consideration. A scanner that can accommodate a range of paper types, such as receipts, business cards, and larger documents, increases its versatility and usefulness in different scenarios.
Which Models Were the Best Overall Scanners in 2018?
- Fujitsu ScanSnap iX500: This scanner is highly regarded for its ease of use and excellent scanning speed.
- Canon imageFORMULA R40: A compact and efficient scanner, the R40 is favored for its reliable performance in a variety of settings.
- Epson DS-320: Known for its portability, the DS-320 excels in scanning documents on the go while maintaining high-quality output.
- Brother ADS-2700W: This model offers wireless connectivity and a robust set of features, making it a strong choice for office environments.
- HP ScanJet Pro 2500: With its high-speed capabilities and advanced features, this scanner is perfect for small businesses needing reliable document management.
The Fujitsu ScanSnap iX500 is celebrated for its intuitive interface and ability to scan directly to various cloud services, making it ideal for both personal and professional use. It features dual-side scanning and can handle a variety of document types, including receipts and photos, effortlessly.
The Canon imageFORMULA R40 stands out for its compact design, allowing it to fit comfortably on any desk. It provides fast scanning speeds and includes features like automatic document feeding, making it suitable for batch scanning tasks without sacrificing quality.
The Epson DS-320 is designed with portability in mind, allowing users to easily transport it for mobile scanning needs. Despite its small size, it delivers high-resolution scans and supports a wide range of document sizes, making it versatile for different scanning tasks.
The Brother ADS-2700W includes wireless options, enabling easy sharing across a network. It is equipped with advanced scanning features such as duplex scanning and the ability to scan to multiple destinations, enhancing productivity in busy office environments.
The HP ScanJet Pro 2500 provides high-speed scanning capabilities and is equipped with a range of software tools for document organization. Its ability to quickly digitize documents makes it an excellent choice for small businesses looking to streamline their workflows.
What Are the Best Budget-Friendly Scanners of 2018?
The best budget-friendly scanners of 2018 include a variety of models that offer excellent performance without breaking the bank.
- Canon CanoScan LiDE 300: This flatbed scanner is known for its compact design and ease of use, making it ideal for home or small office environments.
- Epson Perfection V37: A versatile scanner that provides high-quality image scanning and is excellent for photos, documents, and even film negatives.
- Fujitsu ScanSnap iX100: This portable scanner stands out for its wireless capabilities and battery operation, catering to users who need scanning on the go.
- Brother DS-640: A lightweight and portable document scanner that offers fast scanning speeds and is perfect for professionals who need a reliable solution.
- HP ScanJet Pro 2500 f1: This model combines affordability with the ability to handle high-volume scanning, making it ideal for small businesses.
Canon CanoScan LiDE 300: The Canon CanoScan LiDE 300 is designed for quick scanning with a resolution of up to 2400 x 2400 dpi. Its USB connection eliminates the need for a power cord, enhancing portability, and the one-touch buttons simplify the scanning process.
Epson Perfection V37: With a resolution of up to 4800 dpi, the Epson Perfection V37 excels in producing detailed scans of photographs and documents. It features easy-to-use software that facilitates editing and organizing scanned images, making it a favorite among photography enthusiasts.
Fujitsu ScanSnap iX100: The Fujitsu ScanSnap iX100 is a compact and lightweight scanner that connects via Wi-Fi, allowing users to scan documents directly to smartphones or tablets. Its battery life is impressive, providing the convenience of scanning away from a power source.
Brother DS-640: The Brother DS-640 boasts a fast scanning speed of up to 15 pages per minute, making it ideal for busy professionals. Its portable design is complemented by features like automatic duplex scanning and a variety of file formats for output.
HP ScanJet Pro 2500 f1: The HP ScanJet Pro 2500 f1 combines speed and efficiency, with the capability to scan up to 30 pages per minute. It includes features such as automatic document feeding and advanced image processing, making it suitable for small office environments that require reliable performance.
How Did Premium Scanners Stand Out in 2018?
In 2018, premium scanners distinguished themselves through advanced features, superior performance, and enhanced usability.
- High Resolution: Premium scanners offered higher optical resolutions, often exceeding 4800 DPI, which allowed for detailed and crisp scans of photographs and documents alike. This high resolution was essential for professionals who required the finest details for archival and reproduction purposes.
- Speed and Efficiency: Many of the best scanners in 2018 featured faster scanning speeds, often capable of processing multiple pages per minute. This increase in efficiency was particularly beneficial for offices and businesses that needed to digitize large volumes of documents quickly without sacrificing quality.
- Wireless Connectivity: Premium models incorporated advanced wireless connectivity options, enabling users to scan directly to cloud services or mobile devices without the need for a physical connection. This feature streamlined workflows and enhanced accessibility, making it easier to share and access scanned documents on the go.
- Advanced Software Integration: Many high-end scanners came bundled with sophisticated software that offered features like optical character recognition (OCR) and PDF editing. This integration allowed users to convert scanned images into editable documents seamlessly, increasing productivity and usability for various tasks.
- Compact and Ergonomic Design: The best scanners of 2018 often featured sleek and compact designs, making them suitable for home offices or small workspaces. Their ergonomic build not only maximized space but also provided ease of use, allowing users to operate them comfortably over extended periods.
- Duplex Scanning: Many premium scanners included duplex scanning capabilities, which facilitated the simultaneous scanning of both sides of a document. This feature significantly reduced the time and effort required for double-sided documents, making it ideal for businesses handling extensive paperwork.
Which Scanners Were Recommended for High Volume Use?
The best scanners for high volume use in 2018 include the following options:
- Fujitsu ScanSnap iX500: This scanner is known for its speed and efficiency, capable of scanning up to 25 pages per minute. It features wireless connectivity, allowing users to scan directly to cloud services or mobile devices, making it ideal for busy office environments.
- Canon imageFORMULA DR-M160II: With a compact design and the ability to handle various document types, this scanner can process up to 60 pages per minute. It also includes advanced features like automatic duplex scanning and a robust software package that enhances productivity.
- Brother ADS-2700W: This model offers high-speed scanning at 35 pages per minute and is equipped with wireless networking capabilities. Its user-friendly interface and dual-sided scanning feature make it suitable for high-volume tasks in a professional setting.
- Epson WorkForce ES-400: This scanner is designed for high-volume scanning with a speed of 35 pages per minute and a 50-page automatic document feeder. It supports wireless scanning and comes with powerful software tools to help streamline document management.
- HP ScanJet Pro 2500 f1: This scanner can handle mixed documents quickly, with a scanning speed of up to 30 pages per minute. It features a 50-sheet automatic document feeder and allows easy integration into existing workflows with its versatile connectivity options.
What Are the User Opinions on the Best Scanners of 2018?
User opinions on the best scanners of 2018 highlight a variety of models that excel in performance, features, and value.
- Fujitsu ScanSnap iX500: This scanner is praised for its fast scanning speed and user-friendly interface, making it ideal for both personal and small office use. Users appreciate its ability to scan double-sided documents in a single pass and its wireless connectivity, which allows for easy integration with mobile devices.
- Epson WorkForce ES-500W: Users often highlight the ES-500W for its high-quality image output and robust document handling capabilities. It features a 50-page automatic document feeder and supports wireless scanning, which enhances productivity in busy office environments.
- Canon imageFORMULA R40: The R40 receives positive feedback for its compact design and reliable performance, particularly in scanning a variety of document types. Users value its versatility, as it can handle receipts, business cards, and even thick documents with ease.
- Brother ADS-1700W: This model is favored due to its portability and built-in wireless capabilities, making it a great choice for users who need a scanner they can easily move around. Reviewers appreciate its fast scanning speed and the quality of the scanned images, which makes it suitable for both home and business use.
- Plustek OpticSlim 2680i: Known for its excellent value, the OpticSlim 2680i is commended for its simple operation and ability to scan various document sizes, including business cards and photos. Users enjoy its compact design, which fits well in small workspaces while still delivering quality scans.
How Do Scanners Compare in Terms of Performance and Price?
| Scanner Model | Performance | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Model A | High-speed scanning at 30 pages per minute, ideal for large volumes. | $150 – Budget-friendly for home offices. |
| Model A – Features | USB connectivity, 50-sheet automatic document feeder, duplex scanning. | Warranty: 1 year. |
| Model B | Excellent image quality with 600 DPI, suitable for detailed documents. | $300 – Higher price for professional use. |
| Model B – Features | Wi-Fi and USB connectivity, 100-sheet automatic document feeder, duplex scanning. | Warranty: 2 years. |
| Model C | Versatile standalone scanner with wireless capabilities. | $200 – Mid-range option with good features. |
| Model C – Features | Wi-Fi and USB connectivity, 30-sheet automatic document feeder, duplex scanning. | Warranty: 1 year. |