
However, if you need a scanner, printer, and copier, getting one machine to do everything will save you much space and time in the end. These devices are bulkier and heavier than other scanners and require more desk space. Some models also serve as a photocopier and printer in one. They include both a flatbed scanner and a document feeder. These types of scanners can come with various functionalities depending on the model. Paper types that are too thick or thin can get jammed or damaged.Can’t scan any pages from books or magazines.Some models feature double-sided scanning efficiency.Works quickly and is efficient in scanning multiple pages automatically.You will need to be careful of the size and thickness of documents fed through the machine to avoid getting stuck or damaging the components. These scanners are great when you have many documents to scan and can often handle double-sided documents without having to flip pages manually.Īlthough they are often faster than flatbeds, sheet feeders don’t always offer the same quality image resolution. They will automatically be fed through the scanner, scanned, and slid out the other side. Sheet feeders are document-centric scanners that allow you to place multiple pages in the feeder. Flatbed scanners are usually a little slower than feeders.You can only scan one page at a time which is time-consuming and requires you to manually place each page on the scanner bed.Good quality scanning, especially for photos.You can arrange several small items to scan together on a single page.Scans oversized bound pages such as magazines and books.Fragile items such as old, damaged documents or photos are also best scanned on a flatbed scanner as there is no risk of damage, tearing, or getting jammed.


This includes pages from books or magazines and small stamps, bank cards, or laminated items. The scanner has a lid placed over the glass screen to protect it when not in use.įlatbed scanners are needed when scanning documents or other items that can’t move through a paper feeder. Types of Scanners Flatbed scannerĪ flatbed scanner has a flat glass screen, similar to that of a photocopy machine, on which you place documents you want to scan. In this guide, we’ll help you choose the best scanner for fast, efficient, and stress-free office operations. However, if you have 100 loose pages to scan and send your boss within an hour, a flatbed scanner that requires you to insert and scan every page manually may not be the best option. So, if you are a student or researcher needing to scan pages from books or manuals, a feed-scanner will be useless to you. Scanners are often designed to scan different types of documents. When investing in a scanner for your office or home, specifically consider what you need it for. Finding Your Next Document Scanner: A Buyer’s Guide
