10 Best Portable Scanners 2025 in the United States

The Brother DS-640 Compact Mobile Document Scanner is an excellent choice for those needing a portable scanning solution. Weighing just over a pound and measuring 11.9 inches in length, it's easy to carry and ideal for mobile professionals. The scanner offers a decent resolution of 300 dpi and can handle various document types, including receipts, ID cards, and documents up to 72 inches long.

Scanning speed is efficient at up to 16 pages per minute, making it suitable for quick tasks on-the-go. Connectivity is limited to USB, but it does power directly from the USB connection, eliminating the need for an additional power source, which enhances its portability. The included software suite is quite comprehensive, offering multiple 'scan-to' destinations and the capability to convert scans to editable Microsoft Word files.

It supports Windows, Mac, and Linux operating systems, making it versatile in terms of compatibility. On the downside, the resolution might not be high enough for those needing ultra-clear scans, and its reliance on USB connectivity may limit its use with newer laptops that favor USB-C or wireless connections. Also, the enhanced image optimization features are only available when connected to a PC. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Brother DS-640 is a solid choice for anyone needing a reliable and portable scanning solution with robust software support.

The ScanSnap iX1300 is a compact and versatile scanner designed for those who need a reliable, portable solution for scanning documents, photos, and receipts. One of its standout features is its space-saving design, making it ideal for small offices or home workspaces. It boasts impressive scanning speeds of up to 30 pages per minute in duplex mode, which means you can quickly scan both sides of a document in one go without any hassle.

With a resolution of 600 dpi, the iX1300 ensures that the quality of scanned images is sharp and clear, which is essential for preserving important documents. Users will appreciate the ease of use—simply press a button to start scanning without needing extensive setup or technical knowledge. The scanner excels in connectivity, supporting both USB and Wi-Fi options, allowing you to scan directly to various devices including Mac, PC, and mobile devices. This flexibility is great for users who work on-the-go or prefer to send scans to cloud services. Additionally, the integration of ScanSnap Home software helps you organize and edit scanned files efficiently, which is a big plus for those managing multiple document types.

However, there are a few drawbacks to consider. While it is lightweight at 4.4 pounds, some users might find its size slightly larger than other ultra-portable scanners on the market. Additionally, while it supports various document types, it may struggle with very thick items or certain plastic cards. In terms of compatibility, the scanner is designed for both Mac and PC, but users with older systems or specific software needs might face some limitations. Despite these minor drawbacks, the iX1300 remains a strong contender in the portable scanner category, particularly for those who prioritize speed, quality, and ease of use.

The Epson Workforce ES-400 II is a robust document scanner that suits both office and home environments. Its key strength lies in the fast document scanning capability, thanks to the 50-sheet Auto Document Feeder (ADF) which allows for efficient processing of large piles of documents. With a resolution of 300 dpi, it delivers clear and crisp scans suitable for most standard document needs. However, if you need higher resolution for detailed images or graphics, this might be a limitation. The scanning speed is impressive and can help save time in busy work settings.

Its connectivity is limited to USB, which ensures stable and fast data transfer but lacks wireless options that might be preferred for more flexibility. Portability is where this scanner falls short. Weighing 3.7 kilograms (about 8.14 pounds) and having relatively large dimensions (14.4 x 11.2 x 9.8 inches), it is not the best option if you need something truly portable. The document handling is efficient with the 50-sheet capacity, making it ideal for batch processing of documents.

The included Epson ScanSmart software is user-friendly, allowing you to easily preview scans, email files, and upload to various cloud services such as Dropbox and Google Drive. Additionally, the software includes Optical Character Recognition (OCR) which converts scanned documents into searchable PDFs and editable Word or Excel files, enhancing productivity. The scanner integrates seamlessly with most document management software, making it a versatile addition to any office setup. In summary, the Epson Workforce ES-400 II is an excellent choice for those needing a reliable and fast document scanner with efficient software, though it may not be suitable for those prioritizing portability or requiring high-resolution scans.