A scanner turns documents, photos, artwork or film into digital files you can store, edit and share. The right type depends on what you are scanning and how often you need to do it.
Flatbeds are flexible for photos and documents, while sheetfed models are built for paperwork. Dedicated film scanners handle negatives and slides, and portable scanners are handy when you need something compact.
Find the Right Scanner for the Job
Different scanner designs suit different types of originals. Start with what you expect to scan most.
Flatbed Scanners
Flatbeds let you place photos, documents and other flat originals directly on the glass. They are a versatile choice for home, office and photo use.
Document Scanners
Sheetfed scanners pull pages through automatically, making them much quicker for stacks of paperwork. Models with an automatic document feeder are particularly useful in busy offices.
Film Scanners
Dedicated film scanners digitise negatives and slides at higher resolutions suited to small film frames. They are a good choice for photographers archiving analogue collections.
Portable Scanners
Portable scanners are compact enough for travel, study or working between locations. They suit receipts and documents when a full desktop setup is not practical.
Know How Much Resolution You Need
Optical resolution, measured in dpi, tells you how much detail the scanner physically captures. Interpolated resolution is created through software, so optical dpi is the more useful figure to compare.
Documents rarely need very high resolution, while photos benefit from more detail. Small originals such as 35mm negatives need much higher scanning resolutions if you want useful digital files or larger prints.
For film work, colour depth and dynamic range also matter because they affect how well subtle colours and shadow detail are captured.
Scan Photos, Negatives and Slides
Scanning a photo print is different from scanning the original negative. A film scanner or flatbed with a compatible transparency adapter shines light through the negative or slide to capture it.
Some scanners also offer dust and scratch reduction, which can save time when working through older film collections. If photography is your focus, compare the wider printers & scanners range before choosing.
Get Through Documents Faster
For regular paperwork, speed and paper handling can matter more than very high resolution. Pages per minute gives you a useful idea of scanning speed, while an automatic document feeder handles multiple sheets without loading them one at a time.
Duplex models scan both sides of a page in one pass. OCR software can also turn scanned text into searchable or editable content.
If you need to print documents too, compare laser printers and inkjet printers. You can also find compatible ink and paper for your setup.
Shop Scanners at digiDirect
digiDirect stocks scanners from compact portable models through to document, flatbed and dedicated film options from recognised brands. Shop Australian stock with applicable warranty coverage, our Price Match Guarantee and Click & Collect options depending on availability.
FAQs about scanners
What type of scanner should I buy?
Consider factors such as the types of materials you will be scanning, the volume of scanning you expect, the required resolution, and desired features like automatic document feeders or image enhancement capabilities. Assessing your specific scanning needs will help you determine the most suitable type of scanner to meet your requirements. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff can help you make the right choice.
What is the best scanner for scanning photos?
Look for a scanner with strong optical resolution, good colour reproduction and support for the type of photos you want to digitise. For negatives or slides, choose a dedicated film scanner or compatible flatbed with transparency scanning. Dust and scratch reduction can also be useful when scanning older film.
What is the best way to maintain a scanner?
To maintain a scanner in optimal condition, there are a few best practices to follow. Firstly, keep the scanner clean by regularly wiping the glass surface with a soft, lint-free cloth and using a mild cleaning solution if needed. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that could damage the glass.
Regularly update the scanner's drivers and software to ensure compatibility with your computer's operating system and to access any performance or security updates provided by the manufacturer. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for updating the firmware and software accordingly.
Additionally, consider scanning documents in a well-ventilated area to prevent the accumulation of dust particles inside the scanner. Dust can affect the scanning quality and potentially lead to mechanical issues.
Should I buy a scanner with an automatic document feeder (ADF)?
Whether or not to buy a scanner with an Automatic Document Feeder (ADF) depends on your scanning needs and preferences. An ADF can be beneficial if you frequently scan multiple-page documents or batches of papers. It allows you to load multiple pages into the scanner at once, saving time and effort compared to manually feeding each page.
Consider your typical scanning workload, the frequency of multi-page documents, and your preference for convenience when deciding whether to invest in a scanner with an ADF. Assessing your specific requirements will help you make an informed decision that aligns with your scanning habits and enhances your overall scanning experience.
What should I consider when choosing a scanner?
When selecting a scanner, it’s important to consider various factors to make an informed decision. Begin by determining the intended use of the scanner, such as whether you need a flatbed scanner for documents and photos, a document scanner for high-volume scanning, or a portable scanner for convenient mobility. Assess the scanner's resolution and scanning speed, as higher resolution provides better image quality and faster speeds enhance productivity. Also, verify the scanner's compatibility with your computer and operating system, ensuring that the necessary drivers and software support are available. By considering these aspects, you can select a scanner that meets your specific requirements and delivers optimal scanning performance.
