The ongoing health crisis of the year has forced us to reconsider the state of our current workstations, whether it’s in a corporate environment or in our own homes. Nevertheless, we are compelled to ensure productivity, and one way to go about it is to get reliable equipment. Now this brings us to our quest to find the best flatbed photo scanner compatible with Mac software and other operating systems.
So, if you’re also itching to enhance your workspace, we can help you find the flatbed scanner that will suit your personal preferences and business needs. Without further ado, let’s move on the best that the industry has to offer.
Top Pick
Epson Perfection V600
- Digital ICE feature for film image clean-up and enhancement
- Epson Easy Photo Fix for image restoration
- Compatible with Mac and Windows users
- Comes with the ArcSoft PhotoStudio editing software for digital image post-processing
- Includes a built-in transparent unit for negatives, panoramic film, and slides
- Energy-efficient and LED-lit for low power consumption
- Includes the ABBYY Fine Read OCR (optical character recognition) Sprint Plus
List Of Best Flatbed Scanner for Mac
- Epson Perfection V600 Photo and Document Scanner
- Epson FastFoto FF 680W High Speed Wireless Photo and Document Scanner
- Canon CanoScan Lide 300 Photo and Document Scanner
- Fujitsu ScanSnap iX 1400 Black Document Scanner
- Canon imageFORMULA R40 Document Scanner with Software
- Fujitsu ScanSnap Deluxe iX1600 Cloud-enabled Document Scanner
- Brother ADS 1700W Wireless High Speed Document Scanner
Best Flatbed Scanner for Mac for 2022 Review: Key Features, Pros, and Cons
Looking for the best flatbed scanner for Mac, and possibly most operating systems, may not be a walk in the park. Still, it certainly should not be too complicated of a process. So, let’s not worry too much and go for the top picks in the industry that made their mark in the year 2022.
Let’s dive right in.
| IMAGE | NAME & Details | DETAILS | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Epson Perfection V600 Photo and Document Scanner |
| Check The Price |
| Epson FastFoto FF 680W High Speed Wireless Photo and Document Scanner |
| Check The Price |
| Canon CanoScan Lide 300 Photo and Document Scanner |
| Check The Price |
| Fujitsu ScanSnap iX 1400 Black Document Scanner |
| Check The Price |
| Canon imageFORMULA R40 Document Scanner with Software |
| Check The Price |
| Fujitsu ScanSnap Deluxe iX1600 Cloud-enabled Document Scanner |
| Check The Price |
| Brother ADS 1700W Wireless High Speed Document Scanner |
| Check The Price |
1. Epson Perfection V600 Photo and Document Scanner
Highlighted features
- Digital ICE feature for film image clean-up and enhancement
- Epson Easy Photo Fix for image restoration
- Compatible with Mac and Windows users
- Comes with the ArcSoft PhotoStudio editing software for digital image post-processing
- Includes a built-in transparent unit for negatives, panoramic film, and slides
- Energy-efficient and LED-lit for low power consumption
- Includes the ABBYY Fine Read OCR (optical character recognition) Sprint Plus
Not only is Epson one of the best brands in the market, but they also put out ever-improving models guaranteed to improve your productivity and enhance your working speed. The Perfection V600 model has been renewed multiple times, and it stands as an outstanding, if not the best flatbed scanner for Mac and Windows operating systems. Any user can certainly rely on this equipment’s features, from the precise prints to the versatile scanning.
Reasonably priced and energy-efficient, this scanner makes the scanning, copying, file transfer and converting process so much easier. In fact, it offers one of the highest image scanning resolutions and delivers on performance.
Pros
- Perfection V600 is a top quality yet eco-friendly equipment for all workstations.
- Scanner has a high scanning image resolution of 9600.
- It is the best choice for larger file enhancements.
- Scanner can clean up film and slide scans.
Cons
- It may have freezing issues when matched with a Windows operating system.
- Its auto-trimming feature may affect original scanned image sizes.
- Customer service is not readily available for troubleshooting at all times.
2. Epson FastFoto FF 680W High Speed Wireless Photo and Document Scanner
Highlighted features
- Equipped with the Epson Perfect Picture Imaging System
- Automatic image enhancement, red-eye removal, and color restoration
- Epson FastFoto app and ScanSmart software and OCR (optical character recognition)
- Single-step Tech to capture both images and overlay handwritten notes
- SafeTouch Technology for delicate photos and document
Epson has once again released the top-of-the-line flatbed scanners suitable for corporate and creative work settings. The FastFoto FF-680W is a great product choice if you’re big on image restoration, file organization and protection, as well as file sharing and transfers. This is among the top-performing scanners in the industry, qualifying it as the best flatbed scanner for Mac and Windows operating systems.
We are pleased that it comes with SafeTouch technology to protect and preserve delicate photos and documents. A great tool for collaborative work, this equipment also comes with the ScanSmart software and FastFoto application. Although it is hailed as the fastest photo scanner in the world, it may come off as an expensive product. Nevertheless, after trying it, we believe that it is well worth the price.
Pros
- The FastFoto FF-680W offers efficient connectivity and performance.
- It can scan photo batches of up to 36 items at once.
- It can easily transfer scanned files to almost any operating system.
- The scanner captures images and handwritten notes on a document.
- Machine operates with speed and quality.
Cons
- This may seem too expensive to most users.
- It may not clearly scan concaving photos and documents.
- Scanned TIFF formats are low quality.
3. Canon CanoScan Lide 300 Photo and Document Scanner
Highlighted features
- Lightweight and compact construction with Advanced Z-lid cover
- One-touch scanning feature for photos and documents
- Streamlined, straightforward, and simple design
- Comes with image enhancement, fade repair and dust removal
Are you a small business owner or did you recently set up your home office workspace and are in the market for an affordable scanner that will boost your productivity? If so, then we highly recommend the CanoScan Lide 300 photo and document scanner.
Canon is known for its excellent image qualities. So, that’s something to look forward to with this photo document scanner. This piece of equipment is certainly reliable for the digitization, enhancement, and proper storage of scanned images.
Its auto detection features also come in handy during the busy days of operation. Moreover, this is the best flatbed scanner for Mac and Windows if you’re trying to cut costs for your new work set-up. However, we were disappointed that the product was not compatible with the various macOS versions. So, you may want to keep this in mind.
Pros
- The CanoScan Lide 300 is cost-effective without compromising quality.
- It has the classic lightweight and compact flatbed construction.
- Design makes it easier to scan thick and bulky items and books.
- It is portable and can suit any workspace setting.
Cons
- This is not the most durable scanner in the list.
- Drivers may require frequent troubleshooting.
- Damaged items may affect the quality of scanned images
4. Fujitsu ScanSnap iX 1400 Black Document Scanner
Highlighted features
- One-touch scan operation and user-friendly interface
- Ultrasonic Sensor with Brake Roller for steady paper feeding
- Streak reduction feature for clearer colored prints
- Automatic detection of document size and colors
- Simplified scanning for irregularly or oversized documents
Geared towards a simplified and convenient scanning performance, this document scanner guarantees to give you what you paid for. Fujitsu is a leading brand when it comes to information technologies and innovation. With that, the ScanSnap iX1400 promises fool-proof usability, intuitive maintenance, and maximum productivity.
Alongside its superior reliability, this scanner also has a careful feeding system to ensure less machine damage and crashing. That said, this most certainly is a staple in most office settings and workspaces. However, a downside worth noting is that scanned images are not saved using an automatic naming system.
Pros
- The ScanSnap iX1400 can auto-detect document sizes and colors.
- It can easily scan all kinds of documents.
- It is fairly simple to use, even for non-tech users.
- It offers reduced paper and document preparation.
- The machine has superior image printing quality.
Cons
- The default scanned file size has to be reset to ensure higher quality.
- The ScanSnap iX1400 software is hard to use.
- Scanned images aren’t saved with an automatic naming system.
5. Canon imageFORMULA R40 Document Scanner with Software
Highlighted features
- Performance of 40 pages per minute with a 60-sheet auto feeder
- Compatible with Mac and Windows and includes a TWAIN driver
- Utilizes the Canon CaptureOnTouch scanning feature with free software licenses
- Versatile document and photo scanning and Advanced Text Enhancement
Another photo and document scanner from Epson that has made it to the list is the Canon imageFORMULA R40 scanner. This unit offers premium color duplex scanning for a practical cost. It is also highly compatible with both Windows and Mac.
Although the Canon image FORMULA R40 may not stand as the overall best flatbed photo scanner compatible for Mac software, it is very reliable when it comes to file conversion and organization. When it comes to speed and efficiency, this well-designed scanner can make for a useful addition to your office thanks to its speed and efficiency.
We are pleased by the fact that it can scan both sides of a document in one color at the same time. In just one minute, it can scan up to 40 documents. Better yet, it features a one-touch operation and an automatic feeder that can accommodate 60 sheets.
While this may not be the top choice for creative projects, this photo and document scanner guarantees maximum working efficiency, no matter the bulk of the work. As a bonus, it also creates a system for all scanned files for enhanced searchability.
Pros
- The scanner turns scanned images into searchable digital files.
- Offers fast and efficient operation.
- Scanner is intuitive and simple to use.
- It has broad compatibility options for software and operating systems.
- It comes with a year warranty, tech support and free software licenses.
Cons
- The output tray has a bulky design that may take up space.
- Free software may require troubleshooting.
- The system does not keep settings in memory.
6. Fujitsu ScanSnap Deluxe iX1600 Cloud-enabled Document Scanner
Highlighted features
- Utilizes both the wireless/ Wi-Fi and USB connection
- Standard sheet capacity of 50
- Optimized usage with One-Touch scanning feature
- Customizable scanning preferences
- System is cloud-enabled
This white photo and document scanner from Fujitsu also stands as one of the premium choices in this list. Nonetheless, we assure you that it is a worthwhile purchase for your corporate set-up. Gear yourself up for long hours of office work with the ScanSnap iX1600 Deluxe, a versatile piece of equipment set to increase your performance.
Achieve maximum productivity with its cloud-based system that allows you access to all scanned files from any connected device. It also allows you to use the Adobe Acrobat extension, which significantly improves the efficiency of your file organization, storage and transfers – no matter the format.
However, we do not recommend this product if you have a tight budget. It also lacks multi-user features and does not support scanning from connected devices.
Pros
- Purchase comes with a free year subscription to Adobe Acrobat Pro DC for Mac.
- This is a great choice for team sharing and collaborative projects.
- It has a friendly interface and intuitive working system.
- Supports 30 customizable profiles.
- It allows for efficient tracking, reviewing and organizing of scanned files.
Cons
- It doesn’t come with multi-user features.
- It doesn’t allow scanning from connected devices.
- The scanner is quite pricey.
7. Brother ADS 1700W Wireless High Speed Document Scanner
Highlighted features
- Includes one-touch scanning display for efficiency
- Versatile scanning and optimization features
- Auto Start Scan enhancement for images and documents
- Automatic image rotation, color detection, bleed prevention, background removal, and detail enhancement
- Includes OCR software and document management systems
With its compact design and lightweight construction, this high speed scanner from Brother can guarantee you and your business a reliable office companion. The ADS 1700W is a bestseller for a reason, and one of its leading features is fast and top-quality performance despite the bulk of work.
With its high compatibility, not just with various formats, but also operating systems, you won’t have to bother with troubleshooting worries. Moreover, its optimization capabilities ensure that your documents have crisp readable text and clear images. Truly, this scanner won’t back down after a long day’s work.
Pros
- The ADS 1700W is intuitive to use and time-savvy.
- It improves the quality of your scans at a faster rate.
- It can manage the bulk of images and documents for scanning.
Cons
- This is not the most cost-effective option in the list.
- It has a limited flatbed area.
- It has a mediocre design aesthetic.
Best Flatbed Scanner for Mac: Buying Guide
When getting yourself a top quality flatbed scanner, it’s important that you buy one that will give you your money’s worth. That said, we compiled six essential features you might want to look into before making the purchase.
Speed
First and foremost, you must get your hands on a flatbed scanner that performs at the least amount of time. This is not limited to how long the scan takes. It also includes how efficient the paper feeding system is, and how low maintenance the whole unit is.
Versatility
When choosing a unit, it’s vital that it can handle the scanning of a variety of items, from photos, documents, and many more. This may include old photos that may be waving, or papers with creases and folds. A good bonus feature is if it can properly scan film, slides, and other special items.
Resolution
This comes in the form of dots per inch or DPI. It pertains to the overall quality of the scanned image, or how crisp and clear the text in your documents will be. That said, when choosing a scanner, choose one with a high resolution or DPI, especially when working with colored photos.
Connectivity
While a scanner can stand as a solitary unit, it will most likely be connected to a gadget or computer. That said, a powerful connection can ensure that your working process is seamless and continuous. In this case, USB is the most common and the most sure way to ensure less disruptions. Wifi or wireless connectivity may save you from the hassle of wires, but a network failure can automatically derail your progress.
Compatibility
It’s important that your chosen scanner unit matches with the specifications of your operating system. In this case, not a lot of flatbed scanners work well with a Mac system, so it is always best to check the product details. The same goes with the software that comes with the unit.
Enhancement features
It’s one thing to scan, but if you find yourself a unit that can make the colors more vibrant, and the text clearer, the better. With that, some of the best flat scanners offer auto-detecting and immediate enhancing images that ensure you get the quality you need for your projects.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can a flatbed scanner scan multiple images or documents at once?
Yes. Most of the best flatbed scanners in the market offer a batch scanning feature. This allows users to scan multiple images and documents simultaneously, while storing each of them as separate files.
Q: Can I digitize old photos with a flatbed scanner?
Yes. A flatbed scanner of considerable quality and performance usually comes with image enhancement and recovery features. This way, you can have a soft copy of your old photos.
Q: Is this compatible with my Mac computer or iOS device?
Possibly. Most of the best flatbed scanners are designed with drives that are compatible with Mac, as well as with Windows. To be sure, feel free to check the product details on the packaging, or read through product reviews for the best photo scanner compatible with Mac software.
Q: Can I connect this flatbed scanner with a USB port?
Possibly. If you check the product details of your scanner, you can see if it is a wireless type that connects via bluetooth, or if it is one that utilizes USB connectivity, which is the most common connection amongst tech equipment.
Q: Can a flatbed scanner scan my negatives and film?
Maybe. It is best to check the specifications and features of a scanner if it has the capacity to scan negatives and film. A scanner with a transparency unit may be a good indicator that it has this feature.
Conclusion
In closing, it is safe for us to say that it is best that we continue to compare and contrast when looking for the best photo scanner compatible with Mac software. With that said, we hope that with this guide, you are now more confident in taking your pick.
May you find the best flatbed scanner for Mac or Windows to reinforce your workstation.
Cheers to more productive days ahead!
