When it comes to buying a new flatbed scanner, what it really comes down to is what you, personally, need for your scanning purposes. So, the scanner that works just fine for your photographer friend might not be so hot for someone who, say, draws web comics. Someone who just wants to scan all of their family photos will need a different scanner than someone who wants to keep a backup of all of their files.
But, there are a number of qualities that all good, useful and reliable scanners will share in common. Here's what to look for in a scanner no matter what you need it for. These key points are shared in common with every useful, worthwhile scanner in production.
Durability
Obviously you want a scanner that's going to last. While this doesn't necessarily mean that there's anything to be gained from buying the fanciest, most expensive model out there, it does mean that you should probably steer clear of bootleg knock offs. In other words, buy your scanner from a reliable source, don't get a "SQNY" brand flatbed from the swap meet.
User Friendliness
Some scanners require a degree in advanced technology to figure out. Here's how to spot an easy to use scanner: count the buttons on the unit, if they outnumber your fingers, then this scanner probably has more features than you'll ever be able to make use of in your life, and you'll probably have a tough time figuring out how to work it.
Low Cost
This one is obvious. Don't let this be the only factor in making the purchase or else you'll wind up with a scanner that might not be exactly what you're after. Rather, what you want to do is list all of the candidates for purchase, all of the scanners you like, and then buy whichever is cheapest.
Compatibility
Some scanners come with software that will only work with Windows based systems. If you have a PC based computer, then you probably won't need to worry about compatibility, but if you have a Mac or if you use Linux or Unix, make sure that the scanner's software is compatible with your operating system. This usually isn't an issue, but unless the store you're buying from has an open return policy, you'll need to make absolutely certain before making a purchase of the scanner.
Size
You need a scanner big enough for whatever you're scanning, obviously. If you're a comic artist, for example, or a painter, and you want to put your art on the web or email it, then you need to find a scanner that's large enough to scan your work. On the other hand, if you're only going to be scanning some photos or files now and then, then you just want a scanner that's small enough to fit conveniently on your desk. Check the specs and measure your work area/items to be scanned and make sure that your scanner matches up with your needs as well as your office space.
But, there are a number of qualities that all good, useful and reliable scanners will share in common. Here's what to look for in a scanner no matter what you need it for. These key points are shared in common with every useful, worthwhile scanner in production.
Durability
Obviously you want a scanner that's going to last. While this doesn't necessarily mean that there's anything to be gained from buying the fanciest, most expensive model out there, it does mean that you should probably steer clear of bootleg knock offs. In other words, buy your scanner from a reliable source, don't get a "SQNY" brand flatbed from the swap meet.
User Friendliness
Some scanners require a degree in advanced technology to figure out. Here's how to spot an easy to use scanner: count the buttons on the unit, if they outnumber your fingers, then this scanner probably has more features than you'll ever be able to make use of in your life, and you'll probably have a tough time figuring out how to work it.
Low Cost
This one is obvious. Don't let this be the only factor in making the purchase or else you'll wind up with a scanner that might not be exactly what you're after. Rather, what you want to do is list all of the candidates for purchase, all of the scanners you like, and then buy whichever is cheapest.
Compatibility
Some scanners come with software that will only work with Windows based systems. If you have a PC based computer, then you probably won't need to worry about compatibility, but if you have a Mac or if you use Linux or Unix, make sure that the scanner's software is compatible with your operating system. This usually isn't an issue, but unless the store you're buying from has an open return policy, you'll need to make absolutely certain before making a purchase of the scanner.
Size
You need a scanner big enough for whatever you're scanning, obviously. If you're a comic artist, for example, or a painter, and you want to put your art on the web or email it, then you need to find a scanner that's large enough to scan your work. On the other hand, if you're only going to be scanning some photos or files now and then, then you just want a scanner that's small enough to fit conveniently on your desk. Check the specs and measure your work area/items to be scanned and make sure that your scanner matches up with your needs as well as your office space.
I know of a site that is one of the UK's leading flatbed scanner suppliers, with over £50 million worth of stock available from stock for next day delivery, including £12 million worth of printer consumables.
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