9 Best Scanners for Artwork and Artists in 2023

Preserving old pieces of artwork is essential, especially for artists, and an art scanner should do the job well. 

Some artists who paint on paper may like to photograph artwork and save them in digital formats for record-keeping, selling, or personal interest. Now, there are various types of scanners on the market, like document, handheld, flatbed, etc. The scan speed varies for some depending on the image quality. 

Plus, there are multiple sizes of art scanners to look at. To help you choose the best scanners for artwork, we have penned down this guide. 

So, read on to know it all! 

Best Scanners for Artwork and Artists

Here’s the list of the 9 best scanners for artwork and artists.

1. Epson Perfection V550 Document Scanner – Best Overall

Do you have some photos of old artwork, which you would want to bring back to life? The Epson Perfection V550 Document Scanner will help you with that. It can create vivid and sharp reprints, which will truly impress you. Moreover, you are going to love the image quality and efficient scanning process. 

First of all, this Epson scanner for artwork will give you clear reproductions with 6400 dpi optical resolution. The images can be enlarged up to 17 x 22 inches in size. It can also scan negatives and other films that have built-in transparency components. 

Moving on, if you are looking for digital restorations, then this document scanner can be a great addition to the desk. It will remove the presence of scratches and dust from the film to ensure you have clear scanned pictures. 

Moreover, the ReadyScan LED technology will help you gain better productivity, with no warm-up time. Then the auto edge detection mode allows image cropping and saving as you would want it. 

Plus, you can use this device to scan documents and save them as editable text.

This scanner for artwork scans full-sized paper; hence, it is big in shape. It is also heavy, making the scanner slightly difficult to move around. However, if you do not plan to move it frequently, this can be a great addition to the desk. 

2. Fujitsu ScanSnap S1300i Document Scanner – Best Portable

One of the best scanners for artwork is the Fujitsu ScanSnap S1300i Document Scanner. It can scan very quickly, and you will be amazed by its ease of use. We were looking for a portable scanner and then we found this. 

First of all, you will receive a ScanSnap organizer, which will allow you to manage all the scanned documents. Then you can view as well as edit all the scans and search through them. The scanning software is also intuitive, meaning it can save art pieces and documents directly to the drive. Furthermore, it is compatible with Evernote, Google Drive, Dropbox, and many more. 

Moving on, the scanner offers superb image quality because of intelligent scan correction. It will detect colors automatically, crop and size images as well as remove blank pages. 

That is not all, as the item is equipped with OCR technology, which means the files will be sorted into folders depending on the keywords found. This will create searchable PDFs, making them easier to use.

While the scanner automatically detects and scans documents and images, it is unable to scan plastic ID cards. This is something that you need to know before buying it in case you are planning to scan a lot of plastic cards. Other than that, we found the product very efficient. 

3. Canon CanoScan 9000F MKII Flatbed Scanner – Best Flatbed

If you are looking for the best scanner for artwork that will provide you with professional film scanning features, the Canon CanoScan 9000F MKII Flatbed Scanner will fit well. This product has the capacity to bring out the best in old artwork and photographs. 

The 9600 x 9600 dpi color resolution of the Canon CanoScan 9000F MKII ensures that every scanned picture has remarkable details. This is applicable for documents as well as the scanned copy will almost look like the original one. 

Additionally, the auto document fix puts the scanned images through advanced image analysis along with data correction. Your flatbed scanner should provide clear and sharp images with the perfect tone, contrast, and colors. 

Next, this quality scanner comes with built-in shadow correction, which usually happens around the edges. Here, the ‘gutter’ is removed, making the page look clean. Adding to it, the product is compatible with Windows Vista, Windows 7, Windows XP, Windows 8, Windows RT, and Mac OS X v10.6.8 to 10.7.  

We noticed that the flatbed scanner takes time to scan, and the scan speed is around 75 seconds for four slides. Now you will like the scanned images but start working only when you have enough time in hand. Moreover, we won’t hold this as a drawback as the scan quality is not affected. 

4. Canon CanoScan LiDE220 Photo Scanner

Up next is another option with advanced features and that is the Canon CanoScan LiDE220 Photo Scanner. It is known for easy operation, and you can upload your images to the Cloud with ease. We were able to see the scanned documents easily, and no further setting was required. 

This is a decent scanner that will produce images with impressive color depth and higher resolution. You will be happy to know that it has a resolution of 4800 x 4800 dpi along with a 48-bit color depth. This ensures that the artwork scanner plays with 281 trillion possible shades. 

To top it off, the flatbed scanner is equipped with an Auto Document Fix mode, which scans artwork and conducts an area-by-area correction of data and image analysis. You can work with five EZ button copies, scan, and send to the Cloud. Also, the machine is super fast and can get a letter-sized scan within ten seconds, allowing you to scan thick documents in very little time. 

Moreover, the Advanced Z-LidTM Expansion Top can be extended by an inch to fit large books or pages at one time.  

The only issue that we faced was that it did not automatically start working on our Mac. And we had no information about how to set it up. We had to contact customer care representatives to get some help. 

5. Epson Perfection V850 Pro scanner

If you are looking for the right scanner that would help you get professional-level quality and details, the Epson Perfection V850 Pro scanner is a brilliant option. It features unparalleled scans with great color and tone detailing. Read on to know more about its other remarkable features. 

The Epson Perfection model uses the LaserSoft Imaging SilverFast SE Plus software, which is included with the pack. It helps in preserving the original quality of pictures by paying attention to the gradations, highlighting global colors, descreening, sharpening, shadows, and scaling.

If you have faded pictures, this can help in bringing forward the original brilliance of colors. Plus, the system involves dust removal and backlight correction digitally. 

That is not all, as the Epson Perfection Dual Lens System comes with a 4800 x 9600 dpi lens and a 6400 x 9600 dpi super-resolution lens. The machine uses the required lens and places it in the optical path while scanning different forms of media. 

Additionally, the Epson Perfection model uses Digital ICE Technologies to scan photos, and it removes dust and scratches to give you crisp images.  

The product works fine, but you will need to download a number of upgrades. Plus, after saving the slides, we were unable to read them initially. However, after contacting Epson technical support, we were able to settle the issue. They were very efficient and helped us through the problem quickly. 

6. Plustek Photo Scanner

If you wish to scan photos or artwork measuring 4×6 inches, then the Plustek Photo Scanner – ephoto Z300 will work very well. It is quick and easy to use, making it a very efficient model. We were also very impressed with the powerful image enhancement offered by this device. 

This full-color image scanner works very well in scanning documents and pictures with a size of 8×10, 4×6, 5×7, and 3×5 inches. It also works with A4 and letter formats and offers a resolution of 600 dpi. You are offered two modes, and you can choose between 300 dpi and 600 dpi. 

Moreover, the versatile scanner offers great image quality while working very quickly. You can expect a 4×6 inches photo to be scanned in two seconds. On the other hand, it will scan an 8×10 inches photo in five seconds at 3000 dpi. In this process, you should be able to convert around 1000 pictures within one afternoon. 

On top of that, one can use the image enhancement function to restore old artwork. This would help bring life to old worn out and faded photos. You can add more color with just the click of a mouse.  

Customer service can be improved a lot for this brand. While we do not have any grudges against the art scanner, we did have some queries regarding how it functions. But the customer care representatives took their time in picking up our call as there was a huge waiting line.

7. Canon FORMULA R40 Office Document Scanner

The best part about the Canon FORMULA R40 Office Document Scanner is that it can scan both sides of a document at once, and it will eliminate all blank pages. This helped us in creating concise documents with both images and text. Read on to know more about its bells and whistles. 

This scanner for artwork is very easy to use, and you can keep it on the desktop at home or at the office. The desktop can be connected to your computer with the help of a USB cable, which is also included in the pack. We found the compact design to be very helpful as the scanner could then be transferred easily. 

Adding on, the scanning speed is impressive as one can scan around 40 pages within a minute. The compact scanner is fast and comes with an automatic feeder with a capacity of 60 sheets. All you will need to do is press a single button, which should make it work. 

Further, you will be happy to know that this is equipped with Canon CaptureOnTouch scanning software, which will give you free licenses for OCR software, Readiris PDF, along with Cardiris business card software, which will allow you to work on Windows and Mac.  

This printer can sufficiently work for smaller images and paper sizes because of its compact design. However, if you are looking to print A3 images or bigger, then this will not be the right fit. Otherwise, the compact size is very welcome as it can be kept on the desk easily. 

8. Epson DS-50000 Document Scanner

Up next is the perfect large format scanner, which will help you in scanning artwork and documents easily. The Epson DS-50000 Document Scanner will help you get remarkable results while you can easily connect to your computer to store the images. This is a very convenient option for professionals and passionate artists alike. 

To begin with, this large format scanner will always help you scan large pages up to 11.7 x 17 inches. The large size will ensure that you can scan books, documents, and ledgers along with the artwork. Once the artwork pieces are scanned, you can directly store them in Dropbox, Google Drive, FileBound, Evernote, and Epson Document Capture software. 

Further, the high-speed scanner comes with both ISIS and TWAIN software, which makes it easy to use. You should be able to work well with both Mac and Windows PC, thanks to this product. 

That is not all; the 4-line CCD sensor will provide you with crisp and clear images with vivid colors. You can rest assured that the scanned image will be brighter than the original.  

While you should easily be able to work with this art scanner, you might face certain difficulties with initial instructions. For instance, it might take some time to understand how to store the image in separate files and how to change the location where the images get saved. We would have preferred a clearer set of instructions. 

9. Plustek Large Format Flatbed Scanner

If you are looking for a powerful model that can provide you with hassle-free operation, the Plustek Large Format Flatbed Scanner is going to be brilliant. You can scan all the sheets needed and save them under one PDF file easily. We loved the efficiency and the fast scanning that was provided. 

We are going, to begin with, the ease of operation that this scanner allows. It does not take any time to warm up, and that means you can get to work immediately. You will also love the tabloid-sized scanner, which measures 11.69″ x 17″. This means you can work with large-format documents, magazines, and two letter-sized pages at the same time.

Moreover, the scan speed is eight seconds at 300 dpi. The optical resolution is 1200 x 1200 dpi, ensuring you get sharp and crisp scan quality. 

Four buttons will allow you to scan, OCR, create PDFS and send emails. You will even be able to create searchable documents after scanning, which will make it easier to search, organize, and share.  

While we did not find anything different when scanning documents, there was a slight variation in color shades, which we noticed with artworks. Now, this is not very clear, especially to those who do not pay a lot of attention. But the artist may be able to see the difference. 

Best Scanners for Artworks Comparison Table

Buying Guide for the Best Scanners for Artwork and Artists

A high-resolution scanner will always make sure that you have great image quality, and the images should be easy to store. While we have discussed all the best scanners for artwork above, it is time to talk about some of the factors to remember while scanning artwork. 

This list should help you learn more about the best scanners and how to find one that will be perfect for your needs. 

1. High-Quality Scanning 

The best scanner for artwork will always ensure superb image quality with the maximum resolution possible. The scanned image, in this case, has to be free from dust and dirt particles. Also, scanning larger artworks would mean using a large format scanner. 

So, keep that in mind while purchasing. Most flatbed scanners would not be as big; hence, check the dimensions carefully before buying. Further, some scanners have an extendable arm, which increases the scanning area making sure you can keep and scan larger books and pages. 

2. Scan Speed 

If you are planning to scan a lot of images and documents, you will need to be careful about the speed. The speed of a scanner will depend on how many pages are scanned within a single minute.

Generally, the average scanning software will scan documents at a speed of 30 pages per minute. However, this can vary while scanning paintings of a higher resolution. When you scan traditional art pieces, you must have areas with a lot of color detailing and depth. These could make the machine take time, but that is alright. After all, you would always want the best versions of the original pictures. 

Remember that professional scanners will need to have a high scanning speed above 30 pages because there will be a lot of documents to scan. However, if you are looking for a product for document scanning at home, then a lower speed will still work well. 

3. Scan Resolution 

The very best scanners will always ensure that the resolution of the picture is not hampered. For artists, a high resolution is always needed to bring out the color, texture, tones, and shades. 

Generally, the scan resolution should averagely be 600 x 600 dpi for the best image quality. This could be the maximum resolution that does not always need to be used while printing written documents. But for artists, the scan resolution is extremely important as it would define the quality of the picture.

4. Connectivity 

The best scanners for artwork will always have a way of connecting the device to a laptop or computer. This option is needed to scan artwork and save them. Now some options use a USB wire to connect to the computer. This is the most commonly used, and a lot of scanners come with it. 

On the other hand, a good flatbed scanner may also connect with the computer wirelessly. This means the device would be using Bluetooth to connect to the computer. But remember that wireless ones can be expensive, and you may not want to spend so much on purchasing them. 

5. Instructions and Customer Service 

If you are using a scanner for the first time, then you might need instructions that would help in navigating through the process. Please look for an instructions booklet, which should help you handle the job better. 

Also, if you do not find a booklet, then call up customer care for instructions. They should be able to provide you with a digital copy of the guide. 

Are art scanners portable?

You will find portable scanners on the market which are not bulky and sport a compact body. These are generally slightly smaller in size and come with an extendable arm which could help print larger documents.
But other scanners are heavy, like the large format scanners. These are not meant to be moved very frequently.

What is the ideal bit depth?

By bit depth, we mean the color depth, which involves the number of bits present in one pixel. A higher depth would mean that the scanner will have more data to work with. At the same time, a lower color depth will mean lesser details.

Now the ideal bit depth is around 32-bit, but you can go low and choose 16-bit. However, if you want to scan art pieces, a higher bit depth is preferred.

What is the process of scanning original artwork?

The best process of scanning original artwork pieces is with the help of a flatbed scanner. They provide a flat surface that can provide you with undistorted pictures along with even lighting. You should be able to get excellent image quality, making it a safe option.

Why choose a flatbed scanner over a camera for artwork? 

If you want to digitize artwork, then you should know that it can be done by two methods. You can either take the help of a camera or a flatbed scanner. Now using a camera can be tricky as the exact colors and tones may not be replicated. This can happen because of uneven lighting.

However, if you choose a flatbed scanner, then you should be able to get an undistorted and flat scan. This would mean the pictures would be exactly the same, and you should love the results.

Conclusion

The best art scanner will be the one that offers the best image quality with a maximum resolution. We also prefer devices with the auto-scan feature as it makes it easy to scan and save in digital format. 

Then you can use a good quality printer to print out the artwork. Now, we have finally reached the end of this guide, and it is time to bid adieu. 

But before we do so, let us take you through some of our favorite choices. The Epson Perfection V550 Document Scanner is our top choice for the brilliant clarity that it offers. On the other hand, the Fujitsu ScanSnap S1300i Document Scanner is one of the top portable scanners. 

And if you were looking for flatbed scanners, then the Canon CanoScan 9000F MKII Flatbed Scanner will provide great scan quality. 

Until next time! 

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