For this purpose, you need a portable scanner that can be carried anywhere conveniently. The scanner should have a small size and light in weight to achieve maximum portability. At the same time, it should be equipped with the latest features for an efficient scanning process. Plus, the portable scanner should be compatible with your device. Almost all scanners support Windows OS. But, if you are using a Mac, your options narrow down a bit. We have listed out the primary features you need to check before purchasing the perfect portable scanner for Mac.
Size: The size of your scanner is one of the two factors that determine its portability. The downfall of portable scanners is that they can scan only small documents and pages. However, some models are designed in the size of a rolled-up magazine that not only helps in portability but also supports sizes till A4. Weight: Along with the size, the weight also determines the portability of your scanner. The latest scanners come with a weight of just 0.5 lbs. They are packed with all the essential features. Anything that is over 4 lbs might be a bit difficult to carry around. Resolution: Resolution, measured in dpi (dots per inch), determines the quality and clarity of the scan. While the most basic resolution is 300 dpi, a lot of models offer resolutions more than 1200 dpi. However, a resolution of 600 dpi is sufficient for a quality scan with great detailing.
While you have made sure that the basic functionality of the scanner is met, you should also check for additional features for ease of use and versatility. You can find the detailed list of such features in the “Buying Guide” section of this article. But, before heading to that, please check our curated list of the Best Portable Scanners for Mac
Best Portable Scanner for Mac
Best Portable Scanner for Mac Reviews
1. Epson WorkForce ES-50 Portable Scanner
Epson is a world-renowned company that manufacturers printers, scanners, projectors, ink, and relevant accessories. The brand is committed towards delivering unique value through creative and innovative solutions.
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Epson’s WorkForce ES-50 is one of the fastest and lightest scanners in its class with Mac compatibility. With dimensions of 1.8 x 10.7 x 1.3 inches and 0.59 lbs, the portable scanner can scan a page in as fast as 5.5 seconds. It can handle documents with a maximum size of 8.5 x 72 inches that makes it perfect for scanning ID cards and receipts. The scanner has a resolution of 1200 dpi that makes the scanned copies very clear and detailed. With the help of Epson ScanSmart software, it is very easy to scan and organize the documents for your convenience. It is also equipped with a nuanced OCR for creating searchable PDFs and editable Excel and Word files. Using this, you can directly save the scanned copies on cloud services and online storage accounts. The scanner is powered by USB and does not require any batteries or external powerful supply other than your PC. Apart from Mac, the scanner is also compatible with Windows OS. Best Features
1200 dpi scanning resolution 5.5 seconds/page scanning speed 8.5 x 72 inches scanning area 1.8 x 10.7 x 1.3 inches size 0.59 lbs
What we didn’t like about it
Software is glitchy Difficult to the feed the sheet in manual mode
2. Doxie Go Se Portable Scanner
Doxie is a popular brand that specializes in developing portable scanners for both Windows and Mac. The brand has two premium product lines of scanners – Doxie Go Se and Doxie Q2 along with relevant accessories to meet the demands of home and office. Doxie Go Se portable scanner is a standalone device that does not need any PC or computing device. The scanner comes with an expandable memory that can store up to 4,000 scans before having to sync them to Doxie’s software. Using this software, you can organize and create searchable PDFs, save them as image formats and save to cloud apps or send them as attachments through email. The portable scanner can scan a full color-page in 8 seconds with a resolution of 600 dpi. It’s size resembles that of a rolled-up magazine with a weight of 1.18 lbs and dimensions of 12.25 x 2.25 x 1.75 inches for maximum portability. It is powered by a battery that scans up to 400 pages per charge. The scanner is by a 1-year comprehensive manufacturer warranty from the original date of purchase. Best Features
600 dpi scanning resolution 8 sec/page scanning speed 12.25 x 2.25 x 1.75 inches size 1.18 lbs weight 1-year warranty
What we didn’t like about it
Importing the images from SD card is very slow Lack of automatic document feeder App does not have auto update feature
3. Fujitsu ScanSnap S1300i Portable Scanner
Fujitsu is a global information and communication technology company that offers a full range of technological solutions, products, and services. The brand incorporates its proprietary scanning software ScanSnap in all its scanners for seamless one-touch scanning solutions. Fujitsu’s ScanSnap S1300i portable scanner can scan a page in just 2.5 secs with a resolution of 600 dpi. It has intelligent automatic image processing along with paper size detection, auto color detection, and de-skew for an efficient scanning process. Plus, the scanner is very easy to use with the help of the one-touch scanning feature. It has Quick Menu options that are suitable for Mac as well as PC. Even though it is slightly large and heavy, the scanner can hold up to 10 pages in the automatic document feeder. It comes in very handy when you have to use the scanner for taking printouts. The scanner weighs 3.08 lbs and measures 11.18 x 3.9 x 3.03 inches. It can scan pages with sizes of up to 8.5 x 14.17 inches and save them directly to online cloud platforms. The scanner can be powered either with a USB or through an AC source. Best Features
600 dpi scanning resolution 2.5 sec/page scanning speed 8.5 x 14.17 inches scanning area 11.18 x 3.9 x 3.03 inches size 3.08 lbs weight
What we didn’t like about it
Installation process is a bit tedious Software is difficult to navigate until you get a hang of it
4. Brother DS-740D Portable Scanner
Brother is a supplier of home and office products with reliable features and robust build quality. The brand develops both portable scanners and desktop scanners to meet the diverse needs of consumers and organizations. Brother DS-740D scans single and double sided documents in a single pass with a speed of 16 ppm i.e. almost 4 secs per page. One of the best features of this scanner is that scanning speed remains the same for both B&W and colored pages. Plus, the scanner offers a decent resolution of 300 dpi with a maximum color depth of 48. It supports pages with sizes up to 3.40 x 72 inches. Featuring a length of 11.9 inches, the scanner can fit anywhere. Besides, it does not take much of your desktop space. Using the iPrint & Scan desktop app, you can save the scanned documents directly on the cloud services. The scanner is equipped with several automatic functions including adjustment image rotation, color detection, background removal, and bleed through prevention to enhance the scans. It is powered by a micro USB 3.0 cable. Apart from Windows, the scanner is also compatible with Mac and Linux OS. Best Features
300 dpi scanning resolution 4 sec/page scanning speed 3.40 x 72 inches sanning area 11.9 x 2.5 x 1.8 inches 1.43 lbs weight
What we didn’t like about it
Slider to choose the paper size does not stay in place Occurence of paper jam error when you insert the paper
5. Canon imageFormula R40 Portable Scanner
Canon is a global leader in the manufacture of cameras and photography equipment. The brand also develops premium quality scanners and printers that are fit for home and office use. Canon’s imageFormula R40 portable scanner has duplex scanning that can scan both sides of a page simultaneously without the need to manually turn the page upside down. With a 60 sheet automatic feeder, it can scan 40 color pages in a minute i.e. 1.5 sec/page at a resolution of 600 dpi. It supports different documents including receipts, documents, and business cards. This is a bit heavy compared to other options on our list with a weight of 11.23 lbs. The scanner allows you to convert paper documents into searchable digital formats conveniently. It is easy to set up by simply connecting it to a PC using the USB cable. Plus, it has a one touch operation for ease of use. The scanner includes CaptureOnTouch scanning software along with free licenses for Readiris PDF, Cardiris business card software, and OCR software. Apart from Mac, the scanner is also compatible with Windows OS. It is backed by a 1-year warranty from the original date of purchase. Best Features
600 dpi scanning resolution 1.5 sec/page scanning speed 11.14 x 9.9 x 9.6 inches size 11.23 lbs weight 1-year warranty
What we didn’t like about it
Very heavy – not the best portable option Auto page rotation feature does not work well
6. Fujitsu ScanSnap iX1400 Portable Scanner
Another portable scanner from Fujitsu makes it to our list. This is an advanced model equipped with the latest features for efficient scanning and ease of use. It supports larger page sizes up to 11 x 17 inches. Fujitsu’s ScanSnap iX1400 is designed for simple and efficient scanning with a one-touch solution. Just with a single button, you can scan documents, clean images, and organize them. Plus, the scanner has a friendly interface that allows even the least technologically savvy persons to use it conveniently. When it comes to the scanning quality, it offers a decent resolution of 600 dpi. With dimensions of 6.3 x 11.5 x 6 inches, this is more of a desktop scanner that can be carried easily and occupies less desktop space. It is equipped with an ultrasonic sensor and Brake Roller that provides more reliability for scanning different paper types. Besides, it also has streak reduction, document size detection, color detection, deskew and rotation, and blank page removal functions for improving the scan. The scanner is also compatible with Windows OS for added versatility. Best Features
600 dpi scanning resolution 1.5 sec/page scanning speed 11 x 17 inches scanning area 6.3 x 11.5 x 6 inches size 7.1 lbs weight
What we didn’t like about it
File saving settings aren’t flexible Learning to setup the custom menu takes time
7. Visioneer Duplex Portable Document Scanner
Visioneer is a world-class developer of intelligent scanning solutions for a faster and easier scanning process. The brand uses its proprietary intelligent software application in all its scanners to create searchable and editable scan documents. Visioneer’s portable scanner comes with a duplex option that allows you to scan large numbers of documents in a faster and efficient manner. The scanner supports papers with sizes up to 8.5 x 11.8 inches. The minimum size it supports is 2.25 x 3 inches. This size range makes the scanner ideal to scan receipts, papers, and photos. It scans up to 20 ppm and 40 ipm i.e. 3 sec/page and 40 image/sec. Featuring a size of 11.78 x 4.1 x 2.93 inches, the scanner occupies less desktop space. It has a sheet capacity of 20 sheets to meet your printing needs. The scanner offers you a maximum resolution of 600 dpi. Plus, the software suite allows you to edit the scans and manage them. You can directly save them to your cloud storage accounts. There is also an LCD along with a OneTouch solution for customizable and easier workflow. The scanner is compatible with Mac as well as Windows OS. Best Features
600 dpi scanning resolution 3 sec/page scanning speed 8.5 x 11.8 inches scanning area 11.78 x 4.1 x 2.93 inches size 5.1 lbs weight
What we didn’t like about it
High quality scans take time Does not have WiFi
8. IRIScan Anywhere 5 Portable Scanner
IRIScan is committed towards providing solutions of everyday life with a huge assortment of miscellaneous products including masks, pet products and accessories, furniture, and appliances. This is one of the most ultra-compact and portable options with a weight of just 0.73 lbs and dimensions of 10.62 x 2.12 x 1.73 inches. The scanner supports pages up to A4 size including documents, receipts, pages, and business cards. With this scanner, you can scan 12 colored pages per minute at 300/600 dpi and 8 colored pages per minute at 1200 dpi. The scanner is powered by a battery and lasts for 100 scans on a single charge. There is a 1.44-inch tuft color display panel that allows you to preview the scans instantly. The 32GB micro SD card lets you save the scans directly on the scanner. You can share the scans with any device including PC, Mac, iOS, and Android via WiFi or save them directly on cloud storage. Using the OCR software, you can convert any documents or image file into editable documents. Apart from Mac, you can also use this portable scanner along with Windows OS. Best Features
1200 dpi scanning resolution 5 sec/page scanning speed A4 size scanning area 10.62 x 2.12 x 1.73 inches 0.73 lbs weight
What we didn’t like about it
Scanning speed is a bit slow
9. Fujitsu ScanSnap iX100 Portable Scanner
Yet another portable scanner from Fujitsu makes it to our list. This is a much smaller model compared to the previous two options. The portable scanner features the one touch scanning solution along with ScanSnap Cloud suite for an automatic and efficient scanning process. It automatically separates the scanned documents and sends them to predetermined cloud services. The scanner supports sheets with a maximum size of 11 x 17 inches. It has a built-in GI microprocessor that performs intelligent image enhancement with auto color detection, blank page removal, and crop and deskew. The scanner is powered by a rechargeable battery that can scan up to 260 documents on a single charge. It offers a maximum resolution of 600 dpi. With this scanner, you can scan a full color A4 document at 300 dpi in 5.2 secs. The scanner has a weight of 0.88 lbs and dimensions of 1.87 x 10.74 x 1.42 inches. It features USB and WiFi connectivity that allows you to scan documents wirelessly to Mac, PC, iOS and Android mobile devices. The scanner is compatible with Mac as well as Windows OS. Best Features
600 dpi scanning resolution 5.2 sec/pagee A4 size scanning area 1.87 x 10.74 x 1.42 inches size 0.88 lbs weight
What we didn’t like about it
Instructions are not clear Advanced settings are not easy to set
10. Brother Wireless Portable Document Scanner
Brother manufactures a diverse range of products including printers, scanners, label makers, sewing machines, and cutting machines. The brand also sells inks, toners, tapes, and other relevant accessories. Brother’s portable document scanner supports a variety of documents with a duplex function that allows you to scan single and double-sided pages in a single pass at up to 25 ppm i.e. 2.5 sec/page. It can handle documents up to 34 inches long with a maximum sheet size of 8.27 x 11.69 inches. It has a 20-page capacity auto feed documenter for faster printing, The 2.8-inch color touchscreen display provides a one-touch scanning to present destinations. The scanner features 4.1 x 11.8 x 3.3 inches size along with weight of 3.3 lbs. It offers a resolution of 600 dpi along with scan enhancing functions including automatic color adjustment, background removal, image rotation, text enhancement, and color drop. Using this, you can save the scans directly on cloud services, mobile devices, USB flash memory drive, or send them as attachments in email. This is a versatile scanner that is compatible not only with Mac but also with Windows and Linux OS. Best Features
600 dpi scanning resolution 2.5 sec/page scanning speed 8.27 x 11.69 inches scanning area 4.1 x 11.8 x 3.3 inches size 3.3 lbs weight
What we didn’t like about it
Starts very slowly Difficult to scan directly to cloud services
Features you need to Check Before Purchasing the Perfect Portable Scanner for Mac
The latest portable scanners are equipped with several advanced features for an ultra-fast and efficient scanning process along with great scan quality. You need to have an idea of the different factors so that you can get the best portable scanner for Mac within your budget.
1. Supported Page Size
As mentioned already, portable scanners are not designed to support large-sized documents and pages. This is a trade off that you must be willing to do for portability. However, there are few portable models that can scan A3 pages. These scanners feature a long length but their width and height are short. They resemble a rolled-up magazine allowing you to scan pages up to A3 size.
2. Scanning Speed
The scanning speed of portable scanners is also considerably slower than the conventional scanners. But still, you can expect a speed of up to 1 sec/page. The scanning speed varies for B&W pages, colored pages, and images. Plus, the duplex option allows you to scan more pages in a short time by supporting double side scans. We suggest you go with a scanner with a speed of at least 5 sec/page.
3. Scan Enhancement Functions
The scanners are equipped with the latest features that automatically optimize the scan to make it more clear and visible with a great detailing. Some of the most common functions of scan enhancement include automatic image processing, auto dolor detection, page size detection, image rotation, background removal, and deskew and rotation.
4 Connectivity Options
The portable scanners come with 3 connectivity options – USB, Ethernet, and WiFi. The USB is the most basic connectivity feature and almost all the scanners are equipped with an USB port. The USB port allows you to connect the scanner to a wide range of devices including desktops and mobile. The WiFi feature further improves the functionality by allowing you to scan directly into cloud services or attach the scans in emails and send them directly. Plus, you are not limited by wires. We suggest you get a scanner with both USB and WiFi features to make it versatile and take full advantage of the scanner’s portable nature.
5. Compatibility
The modern scanners are designed to be compatible with multiple operating systems. While the primary agenda is to get a scanner compatible with Mac, having the option to use it with other operating systems can make it more versatile. When you are carrying the portable scanners to different places, multi-OS compatibility can come in very handy. You don’t have to keep looking for a Mac device. The latest scanners can work seamlessly with Mac, Windows, Linux, and Chromebook.
6. Warranty
The portable scanners are susceptible to physical damage as well performance malfunctions. The warranty will protect your money if such an event occurs. While the most obvious choice is to go with the scanner with the longest warranty period, we suggest you get a scanner backed by at least a 1-year warranty.
Conclusion:
Still confused about which portable scanner to choose? Please check out our favorite picks
Epson WorkForce ES-50 Portable Scanner is the most compact and lightweight option on our list. It is equipped with all the latest features along with a high resolution of 1200 dpi for an efficient and fast scanning process. Brother Wireless Portable Document Scanner is the fastest option with a scanning speed of 2.5 sec/page at 600 dpi resolution. It has a decent weight of 3.3 lbs and a size of 4.1 x 11.8 x 3.3 inches for portability. IRIScan Anywhere Portable Scanner has the largest scanning area for scanning different types of documents smaller than A4 size. It offers a high resolution of 1200 dpi and a decent speed of 5 sec/page.
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