How We Research
Every guide on Photo Errant starts with one question: will this scanner handle what you need to scan? A box of 4x6 prints, a tray of 35mm slides and a drawer of bills each need a different machine.
Here is how we answer it.
1. We start with what you're scanning
Loose prints, album pages, slides, negatives, receipts and multi-page papers all scan in different ways.
A flatbed is gentle and flexible, a feeder is fast, and a film scanner needs a light behind the film. We match the scanner type to the pile before we compare models.
2. We compare specs and features
We look at scan type, the resolution the maker gives, sensor type, feeder size, duplex scanning, film holders, connection type, size and what comes in the box.
Epson, Canon, Kodak, Plustek, Brother and ScanSnap describe their scanners in their own words, so we name the brand for every claim. We also note the software and warranty terms each maker lists.
3. We look at buyer feedback
We read through what buyers report after using a scanner. We look for patterns, like feeders that jam on curled prints, film scanners with soft focus, streaks on the glass and software that's hard to set up.
One angry review doesn't sink a scanner. A pattern does.
4. We score each scanner
Our score weighs specs, features and buyer feedback against what you're scanning. A great receipt scanner can score lower in a guide about old slides.
Scores spread out on purpose. A 10 is rare.
5. We keep pages up to date
Scanners change, and older models leave stores. Some models also come in look-alike versions with similar names, so we check each model number and we only link new units.
When we update a guide, the "Updated on" date at the top changes with it.
What our picks are not
Our picks are research, not lab tests. We don't claim to have used every scanner we cover.
A resolution figure is the maker's number, so we quote it as the maker's. Computer and phone support changes over time, so check the maker's support page for your system before you buy.
A scan is a copy, not a fix for a damaged original. Keep your originals, back up your files, and ask a professional about prints or film that are fragile, stuck together or torn.