Are you trying to find portable flatbed scanners among various brands on the market but aren’t sure where to begin? To assist you in finding the right one, we’ve put together a list of the 7 best to help you pick the perfect one!
We investigated and evaluated a number of the top-selling portable flatbed scanners on the market in order to create our list of the best. Making a decision among the many options available is never simple. There are an infinite number of models available, each with a distinct price. And as you’ll find out, the best options aren’t usually the ones you imagine! This comparison is rich and relevant because of the numerous factors that were employed. You will find products featured in this ranking not only based on their pricing but also on their features and other customers reviews. To write this review, we completed 18 hours of research and did 41 portable flatbed scanners tests. You won’t need to pick products at random any more. If you’re unsure of what to look for, browse our list and consult the buying guide!
An overview of our top picks
Table of contents
The best portable flatbed scanners you can buy today
- Amazing image clarity and detail — 4800 dpi optical resolution (1), ideal for photo enlargements
- Epson ScanSmart software included (4) — easily scan photos, artwork, illustrations, books, documents and more
- One-touch scanning (2) — scan in fewer steps with easy-to-use buttons (2)
- Restore color to faded photos — with one click, Easy Photo Fix technology makes it simple
- Scan books and photo albums — high-rise, removable lid
- Generate searchable PDFs (2) — convert scanned documents to searchable PDF files
- Create editable Microsoft Office documents (2) — scan to Word, Excel and PowerPoint files with optical character recognition (OCR) (2)
- Compact and lightweight — USB powered for portability; 3.1 lb
- Convenient — scan letter-sized documents in as fast as 10 seconds (3)
- Save space — built-in kickstand for vertical placement and storage
- Scanner type: Document
- Connectivity technology: USB
- With Auto Scan Mode, the scanner automatically detects what you're scanning
- Digitize documents and images
- High quality scanning for photos and documents : 4800 dpi optical resolution (1) for amazing clarity and detail
- Preserve priceless memories: Restore, archive and share family photos for generations to come
- Scan to Google Drive and other cloud services (2): Epson Document Capture Pro and Easy Photo Scan software included
- Convenient: Easy to use buttons for scan jobs, plus a space saving built in kickstand for vertical placement
- Scan over sized prints, documents and artwork : ArcSoft Scan n Stitch Deluxe 2 included (3)
- Restore color to faded photos: With one click, Easy Photo Fix technology makes it simple
- Scan books and photo albums: High rise, removable lid
- Remove dust from scanned photos : Advanced Digital Dust Correction
- Convert scanned documents into editable text: Optical Character Recognition (OCR) software included
- USB powered: No AC adapter required
- Advanced Z-Lid accepts books and other thick media for scanning.
- Entire unit runs off USB power.
- Documents can be immediately uploaded to cloud services like OneDrive or Dropbox.
- Compatible with Windows 10/8.1/7 SP1, Mac OS X 10.10.5 - 10.13, and Linux with ScanGear MP driver installed.
- 1️⃣ 【Handheld Scanner--Easy to Scan】 Portable scanners use handheld scanning to maximize your diverse scanning needs. 1. Place the scan target flat on a table. 2. Hold and place the scanner close to the top of the scan target. 3. Scan from top to bottom at a constant speed. NOTE: The scanned image resolution is 900DPI.
- 2️⃣ 【Portable Scanner--Easy to Carry】 Length: 10 inches. Weight: 0.44 lbs. Power source: 2AA Alkaline Batteries(not included). Carry method: Put it in a schoolbag/briefcase. Scan way: Flat scan independently from the computer. Storage method: 16G SD Card(included).
- 3️⃣ 【Multi-purpose Scanner--Advantages】 Handheld scanners make your scanning have a tactile appeal. Compared to feeding scanners, handheld scanners will maximize protection from bending and damaging old photos by the feeding machine. Scanners can digitize photos, documents, text, charts, drafts, pages, magazines, recipes, small maps, and more.
- 4️⃣ 【Scanned Images--Easy to Transfer, No Installation Needed】 Transfer method: USB cable. Computers recognize the photo scanner via a USB cable like recognize other hardware such as a camera or SD card. The portable scanner is connectable with Mac, Windows 7/8/10/XP, and Linux systems computers.
- 5️⃣【Warm Tips】 Practice a few more times to get the hang of scanning speed. Poor image quality could be fixed by cleaning the bottom of the scanner, restarting the scanner, or processing white balance calibration. Red light wronging can be solved by restarting the scanner. Please watch the instruction videos.
- Compact A6 flatbed is ideal for front office, reception, patient intake, and retail environments - quickly scan all driver's licenses, passports, insurance cards, credit cards, and more
- Fast scanning at 300 dpi in just 1 second with coverless option
- Automatic deskewing, cropping, and rotating functionalities ensures that documents are scanned accurately
- Easy, one button touch scanning with USB power for portability
- Included PaperStream ClickScan software delivers scanning simplicity and works alongside of any workflow to meet your imaging needs. Place paper in the scanner, push the scan button, and send to email, print, or folder - simple as one, two, three
- 📄【Product Performance】8MP Camera, 270 DPI, Resolution: 3264*2448.
- 📄【Multifunctional】CZUR Lens can work both as a scanner and webcam. To fold Lens to make it an HD webcam.
- 📄【Fast Scanning & Multi-Targeting】Ultra Fast Scanning Speed 1s/page and catch multiple targets (like business cards)
- 📄【Maximal Capture Size A4】CZUR Lens can scan various types of documents, medical forms, certificates, contracts, business cards, letters, etc. up to A4 size (8.27'' *11.69''). Not recommended for very Glossy Paper
- 📄【OCR Recognition】CZUR's software can digitize documents into Word/Excel/PDF/Editable PDF, recognizing 180+ languages
- 📄【Compact & Portable】13.88''*4.13''*3.09'', 0.93 lb (Roughly the Length and weight of 2 mobile phones), Small and Foldable for EASY ON-THE-GO Scanning
- 📄【File/Card Protection】No need to feed nor touch your files/cards, Won't JAM, No damage to your documents
- 📄【Single USB Connection】One single USB connection provides power & data
- 📄【Powerful Software】CZUR Lens' software has various document processing functions like, watermarking, combining the front and back sides, intelligent cropping and filling, etc
- 📄【Quality Guaranteed】We guarantee quality.CZUR lens have 30-days Free Return + 1 year warranty policy
- HIGH RESOLUTION SCANNING: True 1200 dpi optical resolution for photo scans to ensure clear scans that maintain photo quality
- TAG THAT PHOTO SOFTWARE: Includes a one-year subscription to Tag That Photo - an accurate, automated facial recognition and tagging software that allows you to organized scanned photos by individuals, events and custom keywords
- FLEXIBLE MEDIA HANDLING: Scan documents and photos of multiple sizes with multiple cropping options with each scan, in color or black/white
- IMAGE ENHANCEMENT TECHNOLOGY: TWAIN driver technology ensures high image quality with auto color detection and color matching to ensure perfect scans
- HIGH CAPACITY PHOTO LIBRARY SUPPORT: Tag That Photo software allows you to select local PC photo libraries, local servers or synchronized cloud services like Dropbox
- Fastest and lightest mobile single sheet fed document scanner in its class(1) small, portable scanner ideal for easy, on the go scanning
- Fast scans a single page in as fast as 5.5 seconds(2) Windows and Mac compatible, the scanner also includes a TWAIN driver.
- Versatile paper handling scans documents upto 8.5 x 72 inches, as well as ID cards and receipts
- Smart tools to easily scan and organize documents Epson ScanSmart Software(3) makes it easy to scan, review and save
- USB powered connect to your computer; No batteries or external power supply required
- Includes Nuance OCR create searchable PDFs and editable Word and Excel files, Scan speed up to 5.5sec per sheet
- Scan to the cloud(4) scan files directly to online storage accounts with the included software Included Twain driver compatible with virtually any imaging software
- Compatible with Windows and Mac works with your existing system; Twain driver included
- Automatic feeding mode combine multi page scans into one file; Scanner automatically accepts each new sheet as it’s inserted
- The fastest and lightest mobile single-sheet-fed document scanner in its class1, the WorkForce ES-50 features fast speeds ― scanning a single page in as fast as 5.5 seconds2. This small, portable scanner accommodates extra-long pages, ID cards and more. Refer attached user manual below
- Note: No software installation is required. You need 2 AA batteries ( not included) and a memory card ( included) to use it directly. Scan mode: Press and hold "Scan" for 2 seconds to turn on the device, and then press "Scan", the green light is on. The scanner moves to scan the file until the green light turns off automatically (or press the "Scan" key and the green light goes out). The number shown on the display increases by 1 to indicate that the scan is complete.
- Portable Scanner scans images or pictures quickly: Store JPEG/PDF files within seconds, scan images or pictures quickly, plug and play, no need any software preinstalled. Compatible with Windows XP/7/Vista/Mac OS 10.4 or above version.
- Lightweight and travel-friendly: Stored in Micro SD card directly, support read data on your computer or phone with USB connected. Powered by 2pcs AA batteries, Compact Design, it is convenient to carry outside.
- 3 Image Resolution: 3 modes of resolution for your options: 300dpi/600dpi/900dpi, you can save it at the clearest way, picture and document are showed clear as it is. Freely choose your favorite resolution.File Format: JPEG/PDF format is all available, Great storage capacity as it supports 32G Micro SD card（Included 16GB Card）,total meet your need for business trip or daily use.
- Widely Used: It is applicable in bank, insurance business, real estate agency,home, office, library or outdoors. suitable for lawyer, businessmen, students, travelers and amateur archivists. Scan your important files and save them immediately, no struggling in finding a printing shop, keep it confidential.
- 📃【Powerful Software】: CZUR Lens'software has various document processing functions like, watermarking, combining the front and back sides, intelligent cropping and filling, etc Note: Please download software "CZUR Lens" for scanning,"CZUR Camera" is just an optional software for Lens Pro
- 📃【Excellent Performance】: 12MP HD Camera, 330 DPI, Resolution: 4032*3024, Scanning Size within 8.27*11.69 inches
- 📃【Fast Scanning & Multi-Targeting】: Ultra Fast Scanning Speed 1s/page and catch multiple targets(cards)
- 📃【Compact & Portable】: 13.88''*4.13''*3.09'', 0.93 lb (Roughly the Length and weight of 2 mobile phones), Small and Foldable for EASY ON-THE-GO Scanning
- 📃【File/Card Protection】: No need to feed nor touch your files/cards,Won't JAM, No damage to your documents
- 📃【Versatile】: Lens Pro can scan various type of Documents,Medical Forms, Certificates, Contracts, Business Cards, Letters, etc
- 📃【OCR Recognition】: CZUR's software can convert documents into Word/Excel/PDF/Editable PDF, recognizing 180+ languages.
- 📃【Innovative Web Camera】: We love innovation. Spin your Lens to make it an external webcam
- 📃【Single USB Connection】: One single USB connection provides power & data
- 📃【Quality Guaranteed】: We care qulity.CZUR lens have 30-days Free Return + 1 year warranty policy. Not Recommended for very Glossy Paper
- ✔WE SCAN SIZES - A3 11.7"x 17" Large Format Scanning
- ✔NO MORE WAITING - LED Light Source, Save Energy, No Warm Up
- ✔HASSLE-FREE OPERATION - Pre Set Function One-Touch Button for Your Quick Use.
- ✔POWERFUL SOFTWARE BUNDLE - Enhanced OCR Accuracy with ABBYY FineReader 12, and DocAction for File Sharing
- ✔SCAN MODE - 48 bit Color /16 bit Gray-Scale for Scan Art, Documents and Other Items
- Note: No software installation is required. You need 2 AA batteries (included) and a memory card ( included) to use it directly. Scan mode: Press and hold "Scan" for 2 seconds to turn on the device, and then press "Scan", the green light is on. The scanner moves to scan the file until the green light turns off automatically (or press the "Scan" key and the green light goes out). The number shown on the display increases by 1 to indicate that the scan is complete.
- Portable Scanner scans images or pictures quickly: Store JPEG/PDF files within seconds, scan images or pictures quickly, plug and play, no need any software preinstalled. Compatible with Windows XP/7/Vista/Mac OS 10.4 or above version.
- Lightweight and travel-friendly: Stored in Micro SD card directly, support read data on your computer or phone with USB connected. Powered by 2pcs AA batteries, Compact Design, it is convenient to carry outside.
- 3 Image Resolution: 3 modes of resolution for your options: 300dpi/600dpi/900dpi, you can save it at the clearest way, picture and document are showed clear as it is. Freely choose your favorite resolution.File Format: JPEG/PDF format is all available, Great storage capacity as it supports 32G Micro SD card（Included 16GB Card）,total meet your need for business trip or daily use.
- Widely Used: It is applicable in bank, insurance business, real estate agency,home, office, library or outdoors. suitable for lawyer, businessmen, students, travelers and amateur archivists. Scan your important files and save them immediately, no struggling in finding a printing shop, keep it confidential.
![ABBYY FineReader Pro for Mac [Download]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41gIBLrs7lL.jpg "The 8 Best portable flatbed scanners of %currentyear% 40")
- Highest OCR accuracy for Mac OS X saves you time by eliminating the need to correct or retype documents.
- Advanced Document Recognition Technology (ADRT) precisely reconstructs formatting of converted documents – meaning no manual reformatting.
- Automatically recognizes and converts documents in more than 180 languages – including documents featuring multiple languages.
- An intelligent and intuitive interface with onestep Quick Tasks lets you accomplish even complex tasks with ease.
- Transform paper into digital documents for easy sharing, editing and commenting.
- English (Playback Language)
- English (Subtitle)
- 【Flattening Technology Upgraded】ET24 Pro computer scanner applies CZUR’s latest technology that can flatten the 3D curved surface after pixel transformation to complete flattening of the book page.
- 【Camera Upgraded】24MP HD camera, 320 DPI, 5696*4272 Resolution. *Note: Very glare papers are NOT recommended.
- 【System Compatibility Upgraded】Document scanner for desktop/laptop, support macOS 10.13 or later AND Windows XP/7/8/10/11, also support Linux system.
- 【CPU and Graphic Algorithm Library Upgraded】We have upgraded ET24’s CPU and CZUR’s Algorithm Library, ensures ET24’s stable performance, faster Graphic Processing Procedure, High OCR Accuracy.
- 【HDMI Supported】As a document camera, ET24 Pro support HDMI connection ensures faster & stable data transform.
- 【Optical Character Recognition】Powered by ABBYY's OCR technology, JPG files can be converted into editable PDF, Excel, WORD, etc. 180+ languages supported. *Notice: TIFF files need to be converted from scanned JPG images
- 【A3/A4 Large Format Scanner】The ET24 Pro can scan any documents up to A3 size (16.5'' x 11.7'') that needs to be digitized. Easily digitize all kinds of materials, such as books, documents, receipts, business cards, paintings, magazines, etc.
- 【Side Supplement Light】ET24 Pro has 2 Side Lights and a Head Light, illuminating from 3 angles, making less reflection on glossy papers (try head light OFF, only use side light for glossy paper).
- 【Preview Screen】Real-time preview of your scanning process via the 2.0-inch display on the head, making sure you know what you are doing anytime.
- 【CZUR Protection】30-days FREE Return, 1 year warranty, plus responsible Tech-support team.
- VIISAN 3120 is designed for high-quality scanning of artworks, photos, painting albums, books, magazines, newspapers, CAD drawings, and other large document items up to 304 x 426 mm (11.98" x 16.8") in size. It is ideal for school projects, business work, graphic designing, and digital publishing work.
- The VF3120 flatbed scanner offers the fastest scanning speed of 8 sec (200dpi, A3-size color). It also provides a maximum optical resolution of 1200 x 1200 dpi which delivers a color depth of 48-bit vivid true-to-life image and realizes smoother and more detailed color gradients and variations.
- The Auto-Scan function enables the scanner to scan automatically when the scanner lid is closed. It enhances the efficiency of the continuous scanning process. and LED Light Source, Save Energy, No Warm-Up Time, No More Waiting.
- The VF3120 features in frameless and narrow boundary design which allows to scanning of large documents, photo albums, books, magazines, and thick items. It helps you work efficiently with four-panel buttons enabling scan, email, print, and even create a single or multipage PDF. All in a snap. (Note: The A3 flatbed uses a CIS sensor that can only scan flat paper images, not three-dimensional items. Otherwise, it will lead to unclear or blurred scanning results. So it is not recommended to scan clothes or CDs, acrylic sleeves, etc.)
- Compatible with Windows TWAIN, WIA, and MacOS ICA drivers. WIA only supports 600 dpi. Support Windows 7/8.1/10/11 and MacOS 10.15 or later for Image Capture (ICA) driver only. Note: To scan images at 1200 dpi, please use our supplied ViiScan software. It can scan up to 1200x1200 DPI for full-size A3 documents on Windows OS. For MacOS, the VF3120 scanner software can achieve 1200 dpi for a full-size A3 document. Regarding WIA, we currently only support scanning up to 600 dpi due to limitations imposed by Microsoft.
- ⭐[1-year limited warranty] We provide a one-year warranty for Non-man-made damage. Note: If white lines appear during scanning, you need to simply clean the scanner. Please kindly contact our customer service for how to clean it.
- This Certified Refurbished product is tested & certified by Neat to look and work like-new. The product includes all original accessories, and is backed by a 90-day warranty
- Scan in receipts to create expense reports and searchable databases
- Scan in business cards to capture information, send info to address book, sync contacts with your phone
- Scan in documents to create searchable pdfs, capture editable text, organize your digital files
- FAST SPEEDS - Scans color and black and white documents a blazing speed up to 16ppm (1). Color scanning won’t slow you down as the color scan speed is the same as the black and white scan speed.
- ULTRA COMPACT – At less than 1 foot in length and only about 1. 5lbs in weight you can fit this device virtually anywhere (a bag, a purse, even a pocket).
- READY WHENEVER YOU ARE – The DS-640 mobile scanner is powered via an included micro USB 3. 0 cable allowing you to use it even where there is no outlet available. Plug it into you PC or laptop and you are ready to scan.
- WORKS YOUR WAY – Use the Brother free iPrint&Scan desktop app for scanning to multiple “Scan-to” destinations like PC, Network, cloud services, Email and OCR. (2) Supports Windows, Mac and Linux and TWAIN/WIA for PC/ICA for Mac/SANE drivers. (3)
- OPTIMIZE IMAGES AND TEXT – Automatic color detection/adjustment, image rotation (PC only), bleed through prevention/background removal, text enhancement, color drop to enhance scans. Software suite includes document management and OCR software. (4)
- 【High-Speed】- Scans quickly and easily up to 3 seconds (300dpi / Color mode)
- 【Edit and Search】- Built-in PDF button, easily scans and saves PDF's that are editable and searchable
- 【Image Processing】- Software can Auto Rotate, Deskew, and Crop images. Helps the user save time and get an ideal picture.
- 【One-Key Operation】- 4 one-touch buttons(Copy/Scan/PDF and Custom) helps you work efficiently
- 【Support】- Supports TWAIN protocol for Windows 7/8/10/11 And Mac 10.12.x ~14.x. The driver is available for download from the Plustek website.
- The easiest way to scan photos and documents. Supports 3x5, 4x6, 5x7, and 8x10 in sizes photo scanning but also letter and A4 size paper. Optical Resolution is up to 600 dpi ( PS: two setting: 300dpi/ 600dpi).
- Fast and easy, 2 seconds for one 4x6 photo and 5 seconds for one 8x10 size photo@300dpi. You can easily convert about 1000 photos to digitize files in one afternoon and share with your family or friends.
- More efficient than a flatbed scanner. Just insert the photos one by one and then scan. This makes ePhoto much more efficient than a flatbed scanner.
- Powerful Image Enhancement functions included. Quickly enhance and restore old faded images with a click of the mouse.
- ePhoto Z300 works with both Mac and PC : Supports Windows 7/8/10/11 , Mac OS X 10.12~14.x User can download the latest version on Plustek website.
- English (Publication Language)
How to choose a good portable flatbed scanners
Does the idea of finding a fantastic portable flatbed scanners make you anxious? When it comes to purchasing this product, specifically when deciding which model to select, has your head been spinning between options? You are not alone if that is the case. We are aware of the pressure involved in the purchasing process!
Your presence here indicates that you are interested in portable flatbed scanners. Before choosing which product would be the best for your needs after being inundated with information, locate a reliable source with genuine selections. You can get that information from a variety of sources, including buying guides and rating websites, word-of-mouth recommendations from friends and family, online discussion forums where users can share their own experiences, product reviews that can be found all over the internet, and YouTube channels. You can only get the right product through exhaustive analysis. But you realize that’s not always simple. In order to ease your concerns, we have taken the time to develop a list of the top portable flatbed scanners products available right now. You might be wondering how we came up with the list. How was this buying guide developed?
First, we used our algorithms to gather as much reliable data as we could about these products. To verify all the data gathered, we used both artificial intelligence and a lot of algorithms.
Then, our experts used criteria that are recognized in the business to evaluate them according to their quality to price ratio, allowing us to choose the top portable flatbed scanners on the market right now!
The selection of the goods is not arbitrary. Before creating a list, we take into account a number of factors. Below are some of the criteria discussed:
Brand Value: What happens if you choose a dubious brand just because it appears to be a good deal? So the likelihood of receiving a product with a short shelf life increases. That is due to the fact that well-known brands have a reputation to uphold, while others do not. Top portable flatbed scanners brands strive to provide some distinctive traits that set them apart from the competition. So, hopefully one or more of the items on our list will be perfect for you.
Features: Useful features are all you need, not tons of them. We consider the important aspects and select the top portable flatbed scanners based on those.
Specifications: Numbers always help you measure the quality of a product in a quantitative way. We try to find products with higher specifications, but with the right balance.
Quality: A product’s quality may always be quantified with the aid of numbers. We look for goods with better standards that strike the proper balance. The best quality product that gets highly appreciated and recommended by experienced users.
Customer ratings: Would it be accurate to suggest that the portable flatbed scanners were used by hundreds of customers before you? Superior ratings indicate that many customers had better service.
Customer Reviews: Like ratings, provide you with accurate and reliable information about the product from genuine customers. Customer ratings are very important to all of us because they contain accurate and reliable information about the customer service we received from several hundred customers.
Seller Rank: This is very intriguing! Not only do you need a good portable flatbed scanners, you also need a product with rising sales that is trendy. It accomplishes two goals. First, the expanding user base proves the quality of the product. Second, given that number, producers must be able to offer greater quality and after-sales support.
Value: You get what you pay for, they say, so consider the value. Cheap isn’t always good and expensive isn’t always bad. However, that does not imply that spending a lot of money on a product that is flashy but underwhelming is a good idea. Before adding them to the list, we make an effort to evaluate how much value you can get for your money from your portable flatbed scanners.
Durability: Durability and reliability are closely related concepts. You will benefit from a strong and long-lasting portable flatbed scanners for months and years to come.
Product availability: Products come and go, and new ones replace the old ones. Most likely, a few new features and required changes were made. What use is it to use a supposedly good product if the maker no longer supports it? We make an effort to highlight products that are current and offered by one or more trustworthy sellers, if not more.
Negative Reviews: Yes, we do take that into account as well! The goods with the majority of bad reviews are filtered out and disregarded when we choose the best-rated one on the market.
These are the standards by which we selected our portable flatbed scanners. Do we end our process there? Hell no. The most crucial fact about us that you should be aware of is that we regularly update our website with current and pertinent information. We have one more layer of filtration since we place the greatest importance on reader satisfaction. Please let us know if any product included here is incorrect, irrelevant, subpar, or simply out of date. We always value your opinions, and we’ll work hard to make any necessary corrections to our list in response to them.
Why should you believe us?
There are now thousands of possibilities for these products on Amazon, but choosing the best one can be difficult and time-consuming. And what portable flatbed scanners should you purchase in 2022?
This guide is the result of more than 10 years of experience in researching, testing and writing about many topics. Each member of our team is an authority in their area. We read every article we could find online and every consumer review on every retail website for seven hours. Additionally, we discovered a ton of websites that offered helpful resources, including buying tips and thorough information on portable flatbed scanners.
