Scanners

Scanners

If you've begun looking for the scanner for your office, you already know that there are a large number to choose from, and that "scannerese" is a somewhat confusing jumble of technical terms - dpi, interpolated resolution, CIS, CCD - it can make your head spin.  So, before we get into out ratings, a few tips on what to look for in making your scanner choice.

• Purpose - If you plan on scanning film or photos for publication, posting on your Web site or as part of your graphics or graphics design business, you'll need to purchase a scanner at the "higher end" of the market (we'll explain below some of the scanner jargon so you'll know what to look for).  If you're like the folks at Home Office Reports and you just need the scanner now and then to capture a document or graphic, a basic, mid-range scanner will more than do the job.
• Technical Specs (that meet your purpose) - Getting through the jargon to understand how each scanner does or does not meet your needs is simple once you understand what everything means.  So...
  • Resolution - you'll often see two resolution types - optical/hardware and interpolated. The one to pay the most attention to is the optical/hardware.  Simply stated, a scanner's optical/hardware resolution is how the scanner captures the image.  The first, or smaller dpi number is the optical resolution (how many samples the sensor takes per inch scanning one horizontal row of pixels) and the larger number is the hardware resolution (how the motor "steps" vertically).  So, a scanner with a resolution of 1200x2400 means that the scanner is scanning 1200 dpi horizontally and "stepping" in 1/2400 inch steps vertically.    The second resolution type, interpolated is important only if you plan to scan line art as its main purpose is to reduce jagged lines and edges.
  • Color Depth - If you plan to use an application like Adobe Photoshop with your scanner, color depth is important.  Color depth, defined in bits, refers to the number of bits captured per pixel.  This number is important because color depth directly relates to the number of colors that can be output to an application like Adobe Photoshop.  The higher the "internal" color depth number, the better the image.  The better the conversion to external color depth (what is sent to the application) the better the overall "scan".
  • Scanning Element - There are two basic scanning elements on the market, CCD and CIS.  CCD stands for Charged Coupled Device.  CCD devices use an optical lens and a system of mirrors to focus the image onto the sensor cells.  CCD devices give the best image quality.  CIS stands for Contact Image Sensor.  CIS is a "chip" solution and there is no lens or mirrors as in the CCD unit.  CIS chips are cheap and small but, because they must be extremely near to the paper being scanned, there is no depth of field above the glass and anything no directly on that glass will be VERY fuzzy (in other words, don't try and scan your hand or other part of your anatomy with a CIS device!). 

    Web Home Office Reports

  • Document Size - Pretty easy here!  Most scanners max at 'letter' size documents.  If you need something larger...
  • Interface - Older scanners used parallel (printer), serial or SCSI ports to interface to your computer.  Newer scanners use USB (1.0/1.1 and 2.0) and Firewire.  Remember, the faster the interface (USB 2.0 is MUCH better than 1.0/1.1 - 5 times as fast - if your PC can support it!) the faster the scan, and the less time you'll spend scanning!

   

• Software - Every scanner comes with software to help you more efficiently and effectively use your scanner.  Beyond mere scanning utilities, some scanners come with OCR (Optical Character Recognition) software, business card scanner/reader software, document management software, photo integration software and more.  Make sure that the scanner you're purchasing comes complete with the software you'll need for your business purpose.
• Compatibility - Scanners and scanner software can take a toll on your CPU, memory and storage resources.  Make sure you PC is capable of doing what you want to do with your scanner - and make sure your scanner is compatible with your PC (not all scanners are Mac friendly!).
• Service and Support - How easy is it to get the information/help you need when things go wrong?  What is the warranty period on your device?  Service and support are often overlooked in the purchasing rush, but become prominent issues when you need a scanned document and the scanner isn't working!
• GOTCHA!!! - Little known fact.  Not all scanners have replaceable bulbs.  Check with the manufacturer or your retailer to make sure you purchase a scanner that you can replace the bulb in.  If you can't, expect to "shell out" to purchase a new scanner when your bulb burns out!

So, ready to go?  Check out our review of manufacturers of flatbed scanners below.  For details on the scanners from the companies we've reviewed, see our product matrix Scanners.

By the way, we've chosen "favorite" scanner from each manufacturer.  You can tell it's our "favorite" by the Ê symbol beside it!

Scanner Review

Flatbed Scanners*

(Rankings - best, 5 symbols, worst, 1 symbol)

* A = Amateur, R = Rookie, P = Pro

BenQ

Simple Start-Up - ¹¹¹¹

Both of the BenQ scanners come with a software CD that includes an easy to use installation program, hardware drivers and a variety of software programs to make your scanner an effective part of your business and business technology.  Installation is simple and straightforward (BenQ scanners have USB 2.0/2.2 interfaces to your computer).

Cost - Incomplete

BenQ makes two scanners, however, we were unable to find them or pricing in the U.S.  For product details, see our product matrix Scanners.

Time Savings - ¹¹¹¹

From experience - a scanner is a GREAT productivity tool - BenQ has included all the basic software you'll need to be more efficient. 

Ease of Use - @@@@

The BenQ scanners and software applications are easy to understand and use.  A lot of "one button" capabilities.

Works With - YYY

BenQ scanners are for the Windows environment only.

Support - pppp

BenQ's scanners include a 1 year warranty.  Their technical support site is limited though easy to navigate and includes a FAQ and driver downloads. BenQ has an "800" number for technical support, however it is only available between 8:30 AM and 5:30 PM PT Monday through Friday. 

Features - iii1/2

Lots of bundled software - Ulead PHoto Explorer and Photo Express, BenQ Merge Magic and ABBYY OCR software included, lots of "one button" controls - for scanning to Text, Email, File, Copy, Edit.

Overall Rating - Incomplete

Good software bundles, capable scanners - but difficult, if not impossible to find in the U.S.

Canon

Simple Start-Up - ¹¹¹¹

All the Canon scanners come with a software CD that includes an easy to use installation program, hardware drivers and a variety of software programs to make your scanner an effective part of your business and business technology.  Installation is simple and straightforward (all Canon scanners have USB 2.0 interfaces to your computer).

Cost - $$$$

Canon makes six scanners and two scanning cartridges for specific Canon ink jet printers that can meet a variety of home based business needs.  Ranging in price (list) from $49.99 to $199.99, the scanners offer purchasers a number of options in resolution, speed, software and system compatibility.  The scanning cartridges are priced at $69.99 (IS-32) and $99.99 (IS-12).  Canon's product line is priced competitively based on their combinations of feature/function and cost per unit.  For details, see our product matrix Scanners.

Time Savings - ¹¹¹¹

From experience - a scanner is a GREAT productivity tool - and Canon has included all the software you'll need to make your business even more efficient and effective. 

Ease of Use - @@@@

The Canon scanners and software applications are easy to understand and use.  A lot of "one button" capabilities.

Works With - YYYY

Most of the scanners are both Windows and Mac friendly - but make sure before you purchase!

Support - ppp1/2

Canon's scanners all have a 1 year warranty.  Their technical support site is strong and easy to navigate, however phone support requires that "you pay the toll" (no "800" number except for Canada and other regions) and, it is only available between 8 AM and Midnight ET Monday through Friday and Noon to 8 PM on Saturday.  After your warranty has run out, each call costs $9.99.

Features - iiii

Canon has included a rich package of software to make your scanner a bigger part of your business.    Many of the Canon scanners can scan both film and paper - a nice asset for folks using both digital and film technologies in their businesses.   Finally, if you own one of the Canon ink jets that support the Canon scanning cartridges, an effective and inexpensive way to turn your printer into a scanner.

Overall Rating - %%%%

Canon offers a nice selection of scanning products to meet the needs of the home based business owner.  They've done a nice job included a rich set of software applications to increase the scanner's contributions to your productivity.  A Canon scanner will serve both you and your business well.

Epson

Simple Start-Up - ¹¹¹¹

All the Epson scanners come with a software CD that includes an easy to use installation program, hardware drivers and a variety of software programs to make your scanner an effective part of your business and business technology.  Installation is simple and straightforward (all Epson scanners have USB 1.0/1.1 or USB 2.0 interfaces to your computer, some include FireWire and/or SCSI interfaces as well).

Cost - $$$$

Epson makes fourteen scanners that can meet a variety of home based business needs.  Ranging in price (list) from $99.00 to $3,999.99, the scanners offer purchasers a number of options in resolution, speed, software and system compatibility.  Epson's product line is priced competitively based on their combinations of feature/function and cost per unit.  For details on Epson scanners, see our product matrix Scanners.

Time Savings - ¹¹¹¹

From experience - a scanner is a GREAT productivity tool - and Epson has included all the software you'll need to make your business even more efficient and effective. 

Ease of Use - @@@@

The Epson scanners and software applications are easy to understand and use.  A lot of "one button" capabilities.

Works With - YYYY

All of the Epson scanners are both Windows and Mac friendly.

Support - ppp1/2

Epson's scanners carry a 1 year warranty.  Their technical support site is strong and easy to navigate, however phone support requires that "you pay the toll" (no "800" number) and, it is only available between 6 AM and 6 PM ET Monday through Friday.

Features - iiii

Epson has included a good package of software to make your scanner a bigger part of your business and help you use it effective to produce high end graphics, slick documents and stunning web sites.  Many of the scanners can read 35mm film either "as is" or with an optional film reading accessory.  Automatic document feeders are available on higher end scanners.

Overall Rating - %%%%

Epson offers a nice selection of scanning products to meet the needs of the home based business owner.  They've done a nice job included a good set of software applications to increase the scanner's contributions to your productivity (and if you want to spend the $$'s you can get more!).  An Epson scanner is a sound choice and if you're a graphics professional - Epson even delivers some "high end", high speed scanners for you as well!

Fujitsu

Simple Start-Up - ¹¹¹¹

Fujitsu scanners come with TWAIN, ISIS and in some cases (i.e. ScanSnap product) with proprietary Fujitsu drivers.  The scanners use SCSI, Ultra SCSI, USB 1.1 or USB 2.0 to connect to your system.  Most install in a straight forward manner as does the packaged software from Adobe (Acrobat standard) and ScandAll.

Cost - $$$1/2

Fujitsu makes sixteen scanners that are made for workgroups, departments or "production" environments.  All (with the exception of the fi-60F) include automatic document feeders.  Prices range from $274.37 to $18,459.33.   The scanners offer purchasers a number of options in resolution, speed, software and system compatibility.  For product details, see our product matrix Scanners.

Time Savings - ¹¹¹¹

From experience - a scanner is a GREAT productivity tool - and Fujitsu has included software that will help you get the most out of your scanner investment.

Ease of Use - @@@@

The Fujitsu scanners are straight forward to use once installed.

Works With - YYY

Fujitsu's scanners are designed for the Windows environment.

Support - pppp

Fujitsu's scanners carry a one year warranty.  The tech support area on the Fujitsu web site includes a searchable knowledge base and driver/software downloads.  If you need more help, Fujitsu provides a "live chat" option as well as email and telephone support ("800" number available), Monday through Friday from 5 AM to 7 PM Pacific.

Features - iiii

Every Fujitsu scanner includes an automatic document feeder and plenty of speed to do "batch" scanning jobs efficiently, fast and effectively.  Fujitsu also bundles in Adobe Acrobat Standard software as well as ScandAll 21.  Some products also include Kofax VRS. The ScanSnap products scan directly to Adobe Acrobat in a maximum of 15 pages per minute "batch".  The highest end scanner, the fi-5900C can do 240 images a minute.

Overall Rating - %%%%

If you scan large volumes of documents, one of the Fujitsu scanners could be a huge boost to your business.  Not built for low volume scanning, these powerful devices will aid business owners migrate documents from print to electronic formats quickly and effectively.

Genius

Simple Start-Up - ¹¹¹¹

Genius includes NewSoft photo and ABBYY OCR software to help simplify using your scanner.  For the business card scanner (ColorPage-BR600) they include Cardiris Business Card Reading software.  All of the Genius scanners use USB 1.1 or 2.0 to connect to your system and, in most cases, won't require tons of work to install and begin using.

Cost - $$$$

Genius makes six basic scanners and a business card scanner.  The scanners are priced from $69.00 to $119.00.  For product details, see our product matrix Scanners.

Time Savings - ¹¹¹¹

From experience - a scanner is a GREAT productivity tool - and Genius has included a decent package of software to make your business even more efficient and effective. 

Ease of Use - @@@@

A number of the Genius scanners come with 5 buttons for basic scanning functions - making them very easy to use.

Works With - YYY

Genius scanners are designed for the Windows environment.

Support - ppp

Genius scanners carry a one year limited warranty.  The web site includes a FAQ and manuals.  If you need more help, email is your only option (to Taiwan).

Features - iii1/2

Basic scanner technologies with a nice set of software bundled in:  NewSoft Presto! Page Manager, NewSoft ImageFolio, Bridgewell Page abc (web page design), NewSoft Mr. Photo, ABBYY Fine Reader OCR and a trial version of I.R.I.S. business card scanning software or ScanWizard 5, ABBYY FineReader, Sprint OCR, Ulead PhotoExplorer and Simple Star Photoshow Deluxe.  Many of the scanners have 5 buttons for basic scanning functions like fast scan, print/copy, file/fax, text/OCR, web/email.   The business card reader includes Cardiris 3.5 BCR software that can recognize cards from up to 60 countries and integrate with Outlook GoldMine, Palm Desktop, ACT! and Lotus Notes.

Overall Rating - %%%1/2

Competitively priced scanners.  Good software bundle is included. 

HP

Simple Start-Up - ¹¹¹¹

All the HP scanners come with a software CD that includes an easy to use installation program, hardware drivers and a variety of software programs to make your scanner an effective part of your business and business technology.  Installation is simple and straightforward (all HP scanners have USB 2.0  interfaces to your computer one includes a SCSI interface as well).

Cost - $$$$

HP makes fifiteen scanners that can meet a variety of home based business needs.  Ranging in price (list) from $99.99 to $1,499.99, the scanners offer purchasers a number of options in resolution, speed, software and system compatibility.  For product details, see our product matrix Scanners.

Time Savings - ¹¹¹¹

From experience - a scanner is a GREAT productivity tool - and HP has included all the software you'll need to make your business even more efficient and effective. 

Ease of Use - @@@@

The HP scanners and software applications are easy to understand and use.  A lot of "one button" capabilities.

Works With - YYYY

All of the HP scanners are both Windows and Mac friendly.

Support - pppp1/2

HP scanners carry a one year limited warranty.  HP has a ton of good information on their web site that can help you troubleshoot problems - tips, troubleshooting "walk throughs", forums, FAQ's and more.  If you can't find what you need, you can contact tech support via email or phone, 24 hours per day through an HP-sponsored "800" number.

Features - iiii1/2

HP has included tons of good software to help you get the most out of your scanner investment.  We especially like the software included on the higher end scanners which includes Share-to-Web software as well as the Presto! BizCard Reader software. 

Overall Rating - %%%%1/2

HP offers a comprehensive selection of scanning products to meet the needs of the home based business owner.  They've done a good job in including a rich set of software applications to increase the scanner's contributions to your productivity (and if you want to spend the $$'s you can get more!).  And, we believe, the HP "name" still stands for strong engineering (they're still a leader in printers and digital imaging).  If you want a "safe" choice - it's HP - and if you, like us, are in love with the idea of a vertical, see-through scanner.....

Kodak

Simple Start-Up - ¹¹¹¹

Kodak's scanners are designed for workgroups, departments and production environments - not the "casual" home-business owner.  If you need the capabilities and speed these scanners supply, you'll find installing them and setting them up for use as straight forward as for any scanner of the types specified above.

Cost - $$$

We've looked at fifteen  of Kodak's twenty-four scanners (we did not review 6 production scanners designed for extremely high volumes of document imaging).  The nine scanners reviewed ranged in price from $614.99 to $5,196.99.  For product details, see our product matrix Scanners.

Time Savings - ¹¹¹¹

From experience - a scanner is a GREAT productivity tool - Kodak has included software targeted at the production environment as well.

Ease of Use - @@@@

Most of the scanners include automatic document feeders - just load them up - and some are "duplex"-enabled, meaning they can scan both sides of the document at once using dual CCD image sensors.

Works With - YYY

Kodak scanners and bundled software are designed for the Windows environment.

Support - pppp1/2

Kodak scanners carry a one year warranty.  The web site is rich with information including software and driver downloads, a FAQ, user publications and integration manuals.  If you need more help, you can call Kodak on their "800" number or email them.

Features - iiii1/2

Speed and quality are the hallmarks of the Kodak scanners.  The low end production scanner the i280 can scan 81 pages per minute at 150 dpi, 62 pages per minute at 200 dpi and 37 pages per minute at 300 dpi.  Kodak's most inexpensive scanner - the i30 can scan up to 25 pages per minute in color.  The Scan Station 100 includes Ethernet connectivity and three USB flash drives and 25ppm grayscale, 25ppm color scanning rates.  All of the Kodak scanners include an Automatic Document Feeder and an assortment of software that can include KODAK Capture Software, ReadIris PRO Corporate Edition, KOFAX CAPIO for Kodak Scanners, CAPTIVA QuickScan Pro, MGI PhotoSuite, Roxio PhotoSuite and more.

Overall Rating - %%%%

If your business requires you to scan large volumes of documents on a daily basis - an investment in a Kodak scanner could well prove to be a huge benefit to you and your business.

Microtek

Simple Start-Up - ¹¹¹¹

All the Microtek scanners come with a software CD that includes an easy to use installation program, hardware drivers and a variety of software programs to make your scanner an effective part of your business and business technology.  Installation is simple and straightforward (all Microtek scanners have USB 1.0/1.1 or USB 2.0 interfaces to your computer - and some include SCSI or FireWire interfaces as well).

Cost - $$$$

Microtek makes sixteen scanners that can meet a variety of home based business (and professional) needs.  Ranging in price from $99.99 to $2,799.99 (large format 12x17"), the scanners offer purchasers a number of options in resolution, speed, software and system compatibility.    Microtek's product line is competitively based on their combinations of feature/function and cost per unit.  For product details, see our product matrix Scanners.

Time Savings - ¹¹¹¹

From experience - a scanner is a GREAT productivity tool - and Microtek has included all the software you'll need to make your business even more efficient and effective.  Some of the Microtek software packages are extensive and very rich.

Ease of Use - @@@@

The Microtek scanners and software applications are easy to understand and use.  A lot of "one button" capabilities.

Works With - YYYY

With the exception of the ScanMaker 5950 Pr, ArtixScanDI 1210 and Scan-in-Dex 1000 Business Card Reader all of the scanners are Windows and Macintosh compatible.

Support - ppp1/2

Microtek's scanners carry a 1 year warranty.  Their technical support site is strong, comprehensive and easy to navigate.  If you want phone support however, Microtek has no "800" service - so you pay the toll.  Additionally, their tech support group is only available Monday through Friday from 7 AM to 5 PM Pacific.

Features - iiii

Microtek has included a rich package of software to make your scanner a bigger part of your business.  In fact, we believe that the Microtek packages are among the best offered by any vendor.  Many of their scanners support USB 2.0 and/or FireWire and photo scanners include Digital Ice photo fixing technologies.  Scanners include up to 8 "one touch" buttons for functions such as scan to email, scan to printer, etc.  High end scanners also include LaserSoft Imaging SilverFast ai 6.0 software.

Overall Rating - %%%%

Microtek offers a comprehensive set of scanning products to meet the needs of the home based business owner.  They've done a very good job of packing in a rich set of software applications to increase the scanner's contributions to your productivity .  Microtek's scanning products are a good choice for most home based business owners.

Mustek

Simple Start-Up - ¹¹¹¹

Mustek's scanners are straight forward to install using the software drivers included with the scanner.  Mustek scanners use USB 1.1 to connect to your system. Bundled software from Ulead and ABBYY install easy as well.

Cost - Not Available

Mustek one scanner.  We were unable to find pricing for the BearPaw 2400TA Plus.  For product details, see our product matrix Scanners.

Time Savings - ¹¹¹¹

From experience - a scanner is a GREAT productivity tool - Mustek also include a software bundle that can include ABBYY FineReader OCR software and imaging software from Ulead.

Ease of Use - @@@@

Mustek scanners are simple to use.  They include "one button" control of basic scanner functions such as copy, scan to fax, scan to email and more.

Works With - YYY

The BearPaw 2400TA plus is designed for the Windows environment.

Support - ppp1/2+

Mustek scanners carry a one year warranty.  The web site includes download areas for software and drivers, as well as a FAQ, user manuals and tutorials.  If you need more help, you can reach Mustek technical support via email, online chat or telephone (no "800" number, you'll pay long distance charges where they apply) Monday through Friday from 8 AM to 4:45 PM Pacific.

Features - iii1/2

Mustek's scanners deliver basic scanner features and functions.  The scanners include a good software bundle that can include ABBYY FineReader OCR, Ulead PhotoExpress and more.

Overall Rating - Incomplete

Basic, inexpensive scanners and scanning technology for home business owners who require "occasional" scanning of documents and images.

Nikon

Simple Start-Up - ¹¹¹¹

Nikon's three film scanners are straight forward to set up using USB 2.0 (Coolscan V ED and Super Coolscan 5000 ED models) or FireWire (Super Coolscan 9000 ED) interfaces.  The bundled software from Nikon is also easy to install.

Cost - $$$

Nikon's film scanners range in price from $599.95 to $1,999.95.  For product details, see our product matrix Scanners.

Time Savings - ¹¹¹¹

If you need to scan film and get high quality output from that scan, huge productivity boosters.

Ease of Use - @@@@

The Nikon scanners are easy to use when coupled with accessories that make film loading easier.

Works With - YYYY

Nikon scanners are designed for both the Windows and Macintosh environments.

Support - pppp1/2

Nikon offers a one year warranty.  Their tech support area on their web site is extensive and "personalized".  If you choose to interact with tech support electronically, they will email you when your answer is online.  Nikon also has 24 hour per day, 7 day per week "800" number support.

Features - iiii

High quality film scanners that, at the high end include a 10,000 pixel three line monochrome linear CCD image sensor and all models include a  LED light source to ensure that film is not damaged by light source heat.

Overall Rating - %%%%

If it's film you need to scan.  Some of the best solutions available.

Panasonic

Simple Start-Up - ¹¹¹¹

Panasonic makes twelve production scanners that are designed for scanning large volumes of documents (both color and black and white).  They come standard with either SCSI-3 or USB 2.0 interfaces as well as TWAIN and ISIS drivers.  The RTIV capture utility installs easily as do the scanners themselves.

Cost - $$$

Panasonic's production scanners range in price from $949.99 to $19,245.95.  For product details, see our product matrix Scanners.

Time Savings - ¹¹¹¹

If you need to scan forms or other documents in large numbers on a continuing basis HUGE timesavers.

Ease of Use - @@@@

The Panasonic scanners are very simple to use - and the automatic document feeders let you load up the documents you need scanned and walk away.

Works With - YYY

The Panasonic scanners are designed for the Windows environment.

Support - pppp

Panasonic products carry a one year warranty. The Panasonic web site has good technical information on it to help you through minor "sticking points".  If you need more help, you can use their "800"-based fax back service, email Panasonic or call them 9 AM to 7 PM Eastern (no "800" number you will be responsible for toll charges where applicable) for more information.

Features - iiii

These are scanners designed to scan thousands of pages per day.  They have automatic document feeders that range in capacity from 50 to 1,000 pages, resolutions between 400 and 600 dpi, scanning speeds between 19 and 180 pages per minute, color crop out and the ability to add external imprinters to print the documents after scanning.  A solid feature set for the production environment.

Overall Rating - %%%%

If you need to scan a large volume of documents all the time - processing claims, forms or other "paper", these scanners will prove to be a solid and sound investment in your business ability to process greater volumes of forms and improve productivity.

Pentax

Simple Start-Up - ¹¹¹¹

Pentax's DSmobile 600 USB scanner comes with simple to install TWAIN drivers that, along with bundled OCR software, will help you get your scanner up and operating quickly.

Cost - $$$$

Pentax's DSmobile 600 USB scanner is priced at $135.00.  For product details, see our product matrix Scanners.

Time Savings - ¹¹¹¹

If your business requires you to scan documents while "on the road", a useful device that will definitely help you become more productive.

Ease of Use - @@@@

DSmobile is simple to use as is the included OCR software from Pentax and ScanSoft.

Works With - YYY

DSmobile is designed for the Windows environment, however it will work with most Linux systems as well.

Support - pppp

Pentax offers a one year warranty on their scanner. The tech support area on their web site has downloads, a FAQ, manuals and tips and tricks.  If you need more help, you can email Pentax or call their tech support group on their "800" number.

Features - iii1/2

The "plusses" for this scanner are its "mobility" - 11.0x2.0x1.5", 12.2 oz. in weight and included OCR software from ScanSoft. 

Overall Rating - %%%1/2+

Need to scan on the road?  DSmobile may just be the solution you're looking for - small, fairly light in weight and well priced.

Ricoh

Simple Start-Up - ¹¹¹¹

Ricoh's scanners are designed for office environments where larger volumes of document scanning are the norm.  The scanners use SCSI-2, USB 2.0 or 10/100Base-TX Ethernet to connect to your system.  The scanners install easily, utilities from Ricoh for scanner management are also straight-forward to implement.

Cost - $$$

Ricoh's six scanners range in price from $1,459.00 to $4,049.00.  For product details, see our product matrix Scanners.

Time Savings - ¹¹¹¹

If your business requires consistent, high-volume document scanning, these devices will definitely help you get the job done quickly and efficiently.

Ease of Use - @@@@

The Ricoh scanners are straight forward to use, however, remember that any scanner that delivers high functionality is a bit more complex to use than a consumer model.

Works With - YYY

Ricoh scanners are designed for the Windows environment..

Support - ppp1/2

Ricoh products carry a one year warranty. They have a very rich technical support area on their web site, but most of the support for your scanner (if not all) will come from your local Ricoh dealer.

Features - iii1/2

Every Ricoh scanner comes with an automatic document feeder.  All scan monochrome at varying, but relatively fast, rates - 32 to 122 pages per minute. 

Overall Rating - %%%1/2

If document scanning in very large volumes is a part of your business - Ricoh scanners are worth the time and effort to look into.

UMAX

Simple Start-Up - ¹¹¹¹

All the UMAX scanners come with a software CD that includes an easy to use installation program, hardware drivers and a variety of software programs to make your scanner an effective part of your business and business technology.  Installation is simple and straightforward (most UMAX scanners have USB 1.0/1.1 or 2.  interfaces to your computer, some include FireWire or SCSI-2).

Cost - $$$$1/2

UMAX makes thirteen scanners that can meet the needs of a home based business including two film scanners and nine document scanners (with auto feeders).  Ranging in price (list) from $69.95 to $2,843.95, the scanners offer purchasers a few options in resolution, speed, software and system compatibility.   For product details, see our product matrix Scanners.

Time Savings - ¹¹¹¹

From experience - a scanner is a GREAT productivity tool - and UMAX has included all the software you'll need to make your business even more efficient and effective. 

Ease of Use - @@@@

The UMAX scanners and software applications are easy to understand and use.  A lot of "one button" capabilities.

Works With - YYY1/2

Most of UMAX's lower end scanners are Windows only compatible.  Higher end scanners are both Windows and Macintosh compatible.  Check before you buy!

Support - ppp1/2

UMAX's scanners carry 90 day (low end) and 1 year warranties.  The tech support area on the UMAX web site includes a searchable knowledge base, FAQ, technical specifications and manuals and software downloads.  If you need more help you can email UMAX or call them (no "800" number, you'll pay long distance charges where they apply) Monday through Friday from 9 AM to 5 PM Central time.

Features - iii1/2+

UMAX has included a variety of software packages with their scanners - but the more you want, the more you'll pay.  They also offer document scanners with feeder capacities of 50 and 25 pages.

Overall Rating - %%%1/2+

UMAX makes good hardware, but they are dragged down by everything else - price for "more" software, support and resolution options.  Again, good scanners - but worth the price and lack of software and support?

Visioneer

Simple Start-Up - ¹¹¹¹

All the Visioneer scanners come with a software CD that includes an easy to use installation program, hardware drivers and a variety of software programs to make your scanner an effective part of your business and business technology.  Installation is simple and straightforward (all Visioneer scanners have USB 1.0/1.1 or USB 2.0 interfaces to your computer).

Cost - $$$$1/2

Visioneer makes fourteen scanners that can meet the needs of a home based business. Ranging in price (list) from $99.99 to $4,995.00, the scanners offer purchasers a few options in resolution, speed, software and system compatibility.   For product details, see our product matrix Scanners.

Time Savings - ¹¹¹¹

From experience - a scanner is a GREAT productivity tool - and Visioneer has included all the software you'll need to make your business even more efficient and effective. 

Ease of Use - @@@@

The Visioneer scanners and software applications are easy to understand and use.  A lot of "one button" capabilities.

Works With - YYY

Visioneer makes gear for the Windows environment only - sorry Mac users!

Support - ppp1/2

Visioneer's scanners have a 1 year warranty.  Their technical support site is comprehensive (they even have a virtual assistant to chat with) and there is lots of information available based on your personal expertise (beginner, intermediate, old pro). Visioneer does not have "800" number for phone support so you will have to "pay the toll".  Additionally, their technical support center is only available from 8 AM to 5 PM Pacific.

Features - iiii

Visioneer has included a number of software packages to make your scanner a bigger part of your business, but the more you want, the more you'll pay.  The "strobe" scanners are interesting for their portability and might be a big help for professionals who need to "scan on the go".

Overall Rating - %%%%

Visioneer makes solid scanning products at a competitive price.  We wish they'd bundle more software - but - you could do much worse that a Visioneer purchase, especially if you're watching every dime!

Still looking for information?  Here are a couple of sites that might help:

• Scantips - Site with all sorts of information on scanners

• HowStuffWorks - Scanners - Want to know more about how scanners really work?  Check out this page!

If you have suggestions,  on other companies for us to review, please send us a note through our Contact Us page.