10 Best Color Scanners 2025 in the United States

The HP Color LaserJet Pro M283fdw is a versatile all-in-one laser printer that also excels in color scanning. This device offers a resolution of 600 x 600 dpi, which is adequate for most office scanning needs but may not be the best for high-resolution image scans. With a scan speed of up to 22 pages per minute (ppm), it is efficient for high-volume scanning tasks. Connectivity options include wired, Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and compatibility with smartphones, making it highly flexible for different setups.

Document handling is streamlined with a 50-page automatic document feeder and auto-duplexing, meaning it can handle double-sided documents without manual intervention. However, its memory storage capacity is relatively low at 64 MB, which may limit the number of documents it can handle simultaneously. The HP Smart app adds convenience with remote mobile print and scan capabilities, allowing users to manage tasks on the go. It's also equipped with strong security features, making it a reliable choice for business environments.

On the downside, the printer is designed to work only with original HP cartridges, potentially increasing long-term costs. The device is on the heavier side, weighing 18.7 kilograms, which might be cumbersome for small offices with limited space. The HP Color LaserJet Pro M283fdw is a solid choice for moderate to high-volume office tasks, offering a good mix of speed, connectivity, and multifunction capabilities, though it may not be ideal for those requiring high-resolution scans or looking for more affordable consumable options.

The Epson Workforce ES-400 II is a versatile color duplex document scanner designed for both office and home use. One of its standout features is the fast document scanning capability, thanks to a 50-sheet Auto Document Feeder (ADF). This makes it suitable for handling large stacks of documents efficiently. The resolution is set at 300 dpi, which is adequate for standard document scanning but may not suffice for high-detail image scanning. The color depth of 8 bpp is standard for many document scanners but falls short for those needing richer color gradients.

Connectivity is limited to USB, which ensures reliable connections but might be restrictive for users preferring wireless options. The scanner integrates seamlessly with most document management software via the TWAIN driver, aiding in streamlined workflows. Epson's ScanSmart Software enhances usability by allowing easy previewing, emailing, and cloud uploading of scans, alongside automatic file naming which saves time.

Another significant benefit is the ability to create searchable PDFs and convert scans into editable Word or Excel files using OCR technology, ideal for efficient document management. However, the scanner's physical dimensions and weight (8.14 pounds) mean it requires ample desk space. It's particularly beneficial for users needing reliable and fast document processing, though those requiring higher resolution and color depth may need to consider other options.

The Epson Workforce ES-580W stands out as a versatile color scanner ideal for both PC and Mac users. Its key strength lies in its wireless connectivity, which allows for effortless scanning directly to smartphones, tablets, computers, or cloud storage without the need for a computer. The intuitive 4.3-inch touchscreen adds to its user-friendly design, making it easy to navigate through various scanning options.

The 100-sheet Auto Document Feeder is highly reliable and capable of handling various paper types and sizes, contributing to efficient and speedy paper handling. With a scan speed of up to 35 pages per minute and Single-Step Technology for capturing both sides of a document, it ensures quick and efficient digitization of documents. The scanner's resolution of 300 dpi is adequate for most document scanning needs, though it may not be suitable for high-detail graphic scans. The inclusion of Optical Character Recognition (OCR) allows for the creation of searchable PDFs and conversion to editable Word or Excel files, enhancing its utility for document management.

Connectivity via Wi-Fi and the ability to save scans directly to USB, email, or popular cloud services add to its convenience. However, at a weight of 3.7 kilograms, it is relatively heavy, which might be a consideration for users needing a more portable option. The Epson Workforce ES-580W is a solid choice for users looking for a reliable and efficient document scanner with robust wireless capabilities and extensive document handling features.