Top 15 Best Scanner for Artwork Reviews in 2024

Creative people and artists are always in the search for the best scanner. The quest has finally come to an end – here is the list of top 15 best scanners for the artwork!

When looking for the scanner, I need a scanner to capture every detail and every color shade.

How many scanners from the list did that?

Before you find the answer to this question, let’s talk about art and scanner in general.

Why Buy A Specialized Artwork Scanner?

Digital art is getting more and more popular, but some artists still paint on canvas or draw on a piece of paper. To be able to share their work with others, use their pieces for marketing, or in the various product development

processes, artists need to have a digital format. Also, reproduction images and digital restoration projects cannot be successful without a specialized scanner.

Standard scanners you can find in any office don’t offer the clearness and brightness you need when converting your artwork in digital format.

If you need an authentic digital image of your format, keep reading to find the winner in the best scanner for the artwork category.

Which Type Of A Scanner Is better For Scanning Art?

There are two primary types of scanners – document handler scanner and a flatbed scanner.

If you need a scanner for artwork, you should choose a flatbed scanner over the model with a document handler. A flatbed scanner has a glass plate with a lid, which is more suitable for artwork pieces.

On the other hand, you can also choose one of the few models on the market with both capabilities. These models will work great in an office.

Scanner for Art Work Comparison Chart 2023

Here is a comparison table of all scanners I reviewed. Each section holds the most important information about devices.

Which Are The Best Scanners for Artwork To Buy?

I found my favorites, now it is your turn. Each scanner I included in this list is there for a reason. Some have better features; others are better at doing some specialized scanning.

• Best Overall – Epson Perfection V600 Scanner
  “Excellent resolution, suitable for prints, arts, films, slides, documents, easy to use and great editing options.”
• Best Budget – Canon 400 Slim Scanner
  “Budget-friendly, medium resolution, compact and allows upright scanning, useful features such as Auto-scan.”
• Best for A3 Artwork – Epson 12000 XL-GA Flatbed Scanner
  “Suitable for tabloid-size graphics and arts, simple color restoration method, works for photos, films, paintings…”
• Best Resolution – Canon 9000F MKII Film and Negative Scanner
  “Superb image quality with Canon software, maximum available resolution for films, photos, artworks, illustration, easy to use.”
• Best for Color Detection – PANTONE RM200PT01 Capsure
  “Pocket-size device for color detection, quickly and easily detects any shade you want to recreate, powered by batteries, USB rechargeable.”
• Best Portable – Fujitsu S1300i Portable Duplex Scanner
  “Fast scanner with image quality enhancing options, works for photos and smaller arts, customizable.”
• Best Artwork Scanner with OCR – Plustek 1180 Flatbed Scanner
  “Large format scanner, decent performance with color scanning, exceptional for black and white art, versatile scanner.”
• Best Photo Scanner – Epson V550 Flatbed Scanner
  “Easy scans and improves photos, including old photos, comes with specialized photo scanning software, excellent resolution.”
• Best for Watercolor Art – Canon LiDE 300 Flatbed Scanner
  “Compact and lightweight, accurate colors and quick touch-ups available, budget-friendly with great image quality.”
• Best Sketchbook Scanner – Canon 220 Photo and Document Scanner
  “Quick scans with great resolution, vertical scanning enabled, easy to use, lots of automatized features.”

Top 15 Best Scanners for Artwork On The Market 2023 Reviews

I took the time to analyze and compare different models. Please, keep reading to find my thoughts and in-depth reviews which will save you time and effort.

1. Epson Perfection V600 Scanner For Artwork

(Best Overall)

Epson is the market leader when it comes to printing and scanning technology. The model V600 is just the best.

It has the largest resolution – 6400 x 9000 dpi. The enlargements go up to 17 inches x 22 inches.

Because of maximum enlargements, Epson V600 is suitable for scanning paintings and other pieces of art. It is also great for documents, slides, films, and photos.

Epson model V600 features Digital Ice software which allows you to scan films and prints, with sharpness and vivid colors. AirSoft Photo Studio software makes it possible to restore faded paintings to their original, but digital look.

Also, it comes with Optical Scanner Recognition, which is handy because you can easily convert the image to the text.

The device has four buttons that you can customize for even easier usage.

On top of everything, the V600 model has a ReadyScan LED source for efficient use of light and power. Mercury-free technology is environment-friendly and more suitable for modern needs than traditional cathode lamps.

The color depth is 48-bit, which ensures bright colors and great clarity. Overall, the Epson V600 scanner is the best for scanning a variety of items, especially for old prints, arts, and films.

Key Features:

• Customizable buttons
• Enlargements: 17 x 22 inches
• Digital Ice software for removing creases and tears

Product Specifications:

Optical resolution	6400 x 9600 dpi
Scanning speed	6 seconds
Brand	Epson
Warranty	2-year limited warranty

Check how to set up your Epson V600 and how to scan photos and films the best way:

2. Canon 400 Slim Scanner For Artwork

(Best Budget)

The Canon 400 Slim Scanner model is an improved version of the previous model, LiDE 220. The new generation offers great possibilities in terms of scanning artwork.

For example, model LiDE 400 can accurately capture even the texture of a watercolor paper, as well as the colors and shades. The price is fair, for the quality and possibilities you get.

What I like the most are AutoScan features. It is pretty easy to use and quick, but for more advanced scanning I recommend going with the option ScanGear.

Currently, ScanGear is there only for Windows users, and if you own a Mac, you should use Image Capture. Therefore, the LiDE 400 is compatible with both Windows and Mac.

The scanner is quite fast. The scanning speed for 300 dpi is 8 seconds. The maximum resolution of this Canon scanner is 4800 x 4800 dpi.

There is also that useful storage feature, which I talked about in the Buying guide. The LiDE 400 model can scan your items and send them directly to the cloud in just a few seconds.

In terms of restoring old images, this scanner can offer useful features such as color restore and dust removal options.

As for the design, the Canon scanner model LiDE is compact and has one cable for data and power. Also, you can scan upwards which can be useful in some situations.

Key Features:

• Compatible with Windows and Mac
• One cable data/power
• Auto-scan feature

Product Specifications:

Optical resolution	4800 x 4800
Scanning speed	8 seconds
Brand	Canon
Warranty	1-year limited warranty

Watch the video review of this Canon model, and access the scans from the link in the description box:

3. Epson 12000 XL-GA Flatbed Scanner For Artwork

(Best for A3 Artwork)

The Epson scanner model 12000 XL-GA is a professional grade scanner for large formats. The scanner is suitable for pieces up to 12. 2″ X 17. 2″.

The image quality is good, with the resolution of 2400 x 4800 dpi. The model 12000 XL-GA features the Color True II system for images. Because of it the LED lamp warms fast and enhances colors.

The result is a bright, clear scan, excellent for graphic arts. The scanner uses Hi-Speed USB cable and has two useful software for colors.

Those are LaserSoft technology and IT8 target which you use to calibrate colors.

Restoring old images has never been this easy. There is a one-button control for image-restoration. The software uses auto dust-removal and it is easy to restore faded colors.

The software is great for photos and negatives. The design is convenient, despite large.

If you need to scan multiple copies at a time, you can the batch-scan option will make it more simple.

The scanning speed is average and goes from 22 seconds to 30 per 300 dpi.

Key Features:

• Suitable for extra-large formats
• Uses Hi-speed USB cable
• Scans up to 48 frames of 35mm negatives

Product Specifications:

Optical resolution	2400 x 4800 dpi
Scanning speed	22 seconds
Brand	Epson
Warranty	1-year limited warranty

See what you get in the box of Epson large format scanner:

4. Canon 9000F MKII Film and Negative Scanner For Artwork

(Best Resolution)

The Canon scanner model 9000F has a stunning resolution with 9600 x 9600 dpi. If you decide to get the software SilverFast, you will be blown away with the scanning results.

The scanner picks up every little detail, in colors, textures, and patterns – everything you need for a perfect scan. The dust and scratch removal features are better than ever, and you will get polished images.

The convenient lid design is great for scanning books. For example, you can pull the lid out for 2.5 cm.

The operation is simple, because there are a power button and seven extra buttons. These are for auto-scan, PDF setup, copy keys, etc.

The difference between model 9000F MKII and the previous model 9000F is the design and available software. The newer model features elegant, black-silver design and comes equipped with My Image Garden software kit.

My image Garden works as an image editing software, and has many special filters and adjust/enhance options.

However, the best results in artwork, I recommend SilverFast AI Studio kit.

When it comes to ease of use, there are two modes – for beginners and advanced users. If you are a beginner, you can use ScanGear basic mode with auto adjustment features.

Advanced users can explore software possibilities to improve the results and to customize their scanning work.

Key Features:

• High-speed scanner
• The lid can be pulled out
• Dust, scratch removal and fading and backlight adjustments possible

Product Specifications:

Optical resolution	9600 x 9600 dpi
Scanning speed	3 seconds
Brand	Canon
Warranty	1-year limited warranty

See this model in action:

Also, you can see the preferred settings for the best results.

5. PANTONE RM200PT01 Capsure Scanner For Artwork

(Best for Color Detection)

My next pick isn’t a scanner for artwork, but it is a portable scanning device for artists. If you have ever noticed a specific shade of color and couldn’t recreate in your art, then you will absolutely love this device.

It is a pocket-size device that scans and detects colors, making it possible to get the exact shade of almost every color and then, recreate that in your work.

The little scanner operates on batteries, and the battery life is quite decent.

The Pantone device features advanced illuminated technology for detecting shades. The capacity is fine, and you can store 100 color samples at a time.

It also has a pre-loaded library of 10.000 color samples. People who work on product design will especially love this model.

The screen size is 1.75 inch, and the scanner is lightweight.

It allows you to utilize your inspiration anytime and anywhere.

Key Features:

• Preloaded with 10.000 shades
• Allows you to customize your pallets
• Detects color shades quickly

Product Specifications:

Color samples	100
Preloaded colors	10.000 colors
Brand	Pantone
Warranty	1-year limited warranty

See how easy is to detect the colors with this little guy:

6. Fujitsu S1300i Portable Duplex Scanner For Artwork

(Best Portable)

Another category in which I believe I found the winner is portable scanners. Fujitsu ScanSnap model S1300i is portable, but it offers a bit more than a simple portable scanner.

It is not a scanner for artwork per se, but because of the useful features it provides a pretty great artwork scanning for a portable unit.

The device has several auto features such as color detection, rotation, blank page removal. It will also automatically adjust the image quality, straightens your image, and crop it if it is necessary.

I love how fast this portable scanner is. Approximately, the scanner can finish 12 pages in a minute.

Next, the S1300i model is compatible with Windows and Mac, which can use as a power source if there is no electrical outlet. That said, it comes equipped with an AC adapter, which is great. Sometimes you have to buy the adapter separately.

The whole process of scanning is simple because of the Quick Menu, which you can customize to match your most common scanning needs.

It has several scanning organizing features, but I like quick scan to mobile feature. That way, your scanned item will end up in your phone in just a few seconds. I believe it improves the use of this portable scanner on the go.

Key Features:

• Scans on the go quickly and with great quality
• Powered by AC adapter, PC or Mac
• Quick Menu – simple scanning on the go

Product Specifications:

Optical resolution	600 x 600 dpi
Scanning speed	24 images/minute
Brand	Fujitsu
Warranty	1-year limited warranty

Watch the quick review of the basic features by the Fujitsu portable scanner:

7. Plustek 1180 Flatbed Scanner For Artwork

(Best Artwork Scanner with OCR)

Plustek 1180 scanner has a large scanning area, which you can use to scan two pages spread book or large-formats magazines, scrapbooks, and newspapers.

It has an LED source, and there is no warming up. The scanning process is quick and hassle-free. For color scanning, the scanner needs 15 seconds to scan 300 dpi.

While we are on the hassle-free topic, it is worth mentioning the simple use. With four one-touch button operations, you can quickly scan and email your copies.

It picks up colors pretty great and digitally enhances faded, water-based colors. But, it is much quicker, and offers better image quality with black and white art.

Other than artists, it is a suitable choice for architectural firms, schools, libraries, and an office that deals with any kind of graphic illustrations.

Key Features:

• Large scanning area
• Four one-touch button operation
• Captures colors accurately

Product Specifications:

Optical resolution	1200 x 1200 dpi
Scanning speed	9 seconds
Brand	Plustek
Warranty	1-year limited warranty

Discover the artist’s perspective on Plustek 1180 scanner and see his results including color differentiations:

8. Epson V550 Flatbed Scanner For Artwork

(Best Photo Scanner)

The Epson model V550 provides superb image quality for scanning both photos and films. With the optical resolution of 6400 x 6400 dpi, and enlargements up to 17 x 22 inches, images are top quality.

The Epson V550 uses mercury-free technology and LED source. Because of it, you don’t have to wait to warm up.

There is an interesting feature that simplifies scanning multiple photos at a time. It is an auto edge detection feature, which crops images and saves each photo as a separate file.

The model V550 scans 35mm slides, negatives, and films. The color depth is 48-bit, which is a standard for artwork scanners.

The scanner comes equipped with Easy Photo Scan software for Windows users. Mac users need to download software to use it.

It has some great restoring tools, especially useful when it comes to vintage photos. It removes creases and restores faded colors.

Overall, the Epson V550 model is a great tool that boosts productivity for photographers.

Key Features:

• No warm-up time
• Restores faded colors on vintage photos
• Comes with Easy Photo Scan software

Product Specifications:

Optical resolution	6400 x 6400 dpi
Scanning speed	9 seconds
Brand	Epson
Warranty	1-year limited warranty

Learn how to scan negatives in different formats with Epson V550:

9. Canon 300 Flatbed Scanner For Artwork

(Best for Watercolor Art)

The LiDE 300 scanner from Canon maybe isn’t the best for scanning negatives or slides, but it is my pick no1 for scanning watercolor art.

Watercolor art is a fine art, which requires your scanner to picks up every shade variations as well as the texture. The LiDE 300 model can do that without a doubt.

The resolution is 2400 x 2400 dpi. The scanner has a fade correction and dust removal feature to offer you the possibility to achieve an identical copy of your watercolor art pieces.

The model is compact and it scans 300 dpi in 10 seconds.

The reasonable price tags are just another thing which I really love about this one.

It is great for everyday use, with the one-cord compact design it can fit into every small corner.

Key Features:

• One cord for data and power
• Fade and dust removal features
• 4 button for quick scanning process

Product Specifications:

Optical resolution	2400 x 2400 dpi
Scanning speed	10 seconds
Brand	Canon
Warranty	1-year limited warranty

Is Canon software difficult to install? Find out in the video:

10. Canon 220 Photo and Document Scanner For Artwork

(Best Sketchbook Scanner)

The Canon LiDE 220 model is still a top model on the market, despite having newer models available. What is great about this one is the versatility and quick scanning process.

It is ideal for quick sketches and drawings, especially good for people working from homes, such as designers and other artists.

The LiDE 220 sends your scans directly to a cloud service such as Google Drive, Evernote, Dropbox. It is compatible with Windows and Mac.

The optical resolution is 4800 x 4800, which results in clear scans and catches all details from stitches. The scanner comes with a stand, which is suitable for vertical scanning.

I know people who appreciate this convenient feature because it can save time.

In approximately ten seconds, this Canon scanner can finish scanning your letter-sized piece.

AutoScan mode detects the format and saves it with appropriate settings. An auto document fix option improves the position of your drawings and documents.

The scanner comes with five operation buttons and software practical features. Those include Digital filling, fading, grain correction, gutter shadow correction, etc.

Key Features:

• Sends scans directly to cloud
• Auto-fix feature for documents
• Comes with the stand

Product Specifications:

Optical resolution	4800 x 4800 dpi
Scanning speed	10 seconds
Brand	Canon
Warranty	1-year limited warranty

See how Canon LiDE behaves with paper texture and colorful images:

11. Epson DS50000 Large Format Document Scanner For Artwork

(Best for Office Use)

The Epson scanner model DS50000 A3 is the best choice for office use because it is versatile and can work with large formats.

Also, this model has prolonged warranty, and unlike other models from the list it is a 3-year warranty. The next-business-day replacement prevents any delays in the office.

With this Epson scanner you can scan pretty much everything – from old maps, documents, to art work pieces, large-format pictures.

The scanner can save scans directly to cloud services, which is great for office use. It is compatible with both Windows and Mac devices.

The image quality is average, but its other features pushed this model on the list of the best scanners for artwork.

With the optimal network module, this scanner can become a network workgroup scanner quickly and easily.

Key Features:

• Compatible with Windows and Mac
• Network capable with the suitable module
• Large format scanner

Product Specifications:

Optical resolution	600 x 600 dpi
Scanning speed	4 seconds
Brand	Epson
Warranty	3-year limited warranty

12. Mustek 2400S Flatbed Scanner For Artwork

(Best for Comic Pages)

The Mustek 2400S scanner is a large format scanner, which comic artists can really enjoy. The 2400 x 2400 can be upgraded to 9600 x 9600 dpi.

The images are bright, and the colors are vivid with 48-bit and 24-bit scan mode. You can use it to scan around 2500 pages in a day.

The scanning speed is average but nice for large format scanners. It goes from approximately 6 seconds per 100 dpi to 300 seconds when scanning on the highest resolution.

Compared to some much more expensive models on the market, this one offers great value for the money. Scans are bright and clear, and the price won’t break the bank.

The light source is LED, which means no warming and environment-friendly operation. The device is compatible with Windows and Mac. Still, it is easier to use if you are a Windows user.

The convenient batch scanning is simple, so if you have lots of papers to scan, you can rely on the Mustek 2400S scanner to finish it for you.

Key Features:

• Daily scanning volume – 2500 pages
• Large format scanner
• Compatible with Windows and Mac

Product Specifications:

Optical resolution	2400 x 2400 dpi
Dimensions	14.6 seconds
Brand	Mustek
Warranty	1-year limited warranty

13. Epson V850 Pro Scanner For Artwork

(Best Artwork Scanner for Scanography)

If you want to splurge on something with cool features and boost up your scanography skills, the Epson model V850 is worth your attention. The scanner comes with 6400 x 6400 dpi optical resolution.

Additionally, this scanner is equipped with smooth gradations and shadow detail features. It has a dual-lens system for remarkable results.

The model V850 has advanced optics – high-reflection mirror and coatings for anti-reflection.

With this one, you don’t have to bother with dust removal manually – it will do it for you.

Also, the model V850 has LaserSoft Imaging SilverFast SE Plus software included, which is one of the best scanning software available. Many scanographists recommend using SilverFast software for capture digitized images.

Photo fix, backlight correction, restoration of old colors are just some of the Epson features.

Key Features:

• Improved optics – dual lens system
• Anti-reflection coatings
• Auto image restoring settings

Product Specifications:

Optical resolution	6400 x 6400 dpi
Scanning speed	10.8 msec/line
Brand	Epson
Warranty	1-year limited warranty

Watch the very technical review of the Epson V850 model:

14. Visioneer H60 Duplex Scanner For Artwork

(Best Artwork Scanner with ADF)

Visioneer Patriot scanner model H60 is a duplex scanner, equipped with a 120-sheet automatic document feeder (ADF). The Visioneer H60 has a scanning capacity of 10,000 pages per day.

To use ADF you will need minimum document paper size 2 x 2 inches. It can scan up to 140 images per minute but within a lower optical resolution. The scanner comes with convenient software OneTouch with Acuity, and you can choose the saving location of your files.

The Visioneer Acuity software improves image quality by removing unwanted marks, stains, wrinkles, and smudges. The scanner comes with OCR (Optical Character Recognition) technology, so it converts images in the editable text much easier and with much more clarity. Also, barcode recognition is available with Acuity software capabilities.

The Visioneer scanner is easy to use with 9-preset programs and a one-touch button operation. The optical resolution is moderate – 600 x 600 dpi.

The light source is LED, and you can expect no warming time and environment-friendly operation.

Key Features:

• Equipped with ADF and OCR technology
• 9 preset programs
• Daily duty cycle – 10,000 pages per day

Product Specifications:

Optical resolution	600 x 600
Scanning speed	140 ipm
Brand	Visioneer
Warranty	3-year limited warranty

15. Canon D1250U2F Flatbed Scanner For Artwork

(Best for Kids Artwork)

The model D1250U2F by Canon features a simple and user-friendly design. It is great for films and documents, but also scanning books and magazines. It will work great with kids drawings and color book pages.

The model D1250U2F features 1200 x 2400 dpi optical resolutions. It is fully compatible with Windows users, and easy to work, without any complex setups.

Because of the STAD technology, the scanner will automatically improve scans by correcting tones and gamma fields. The results are bright and crisp images.

There are only four external buttons for scanning, emailing, copying, etc. The scanner has a built-in 35 mm film adapter as well.

The scans will be clear and clean from dust and scratches due to special removal technology. Therefore, you don’t have to worry about your kids making wrinkles on their drawings, the scanner will improve it for you!

Instead of keeping all the papers around your house, why not make a digital archive of your kids’ artwork and show them when they grow up?

Key Features:

• Built-in 35 mm film adapter
• STAD technology – tone adjusting
• Crisp images

Product Specifications:

Optical resolution	1200 x 2400 dpi
Scanning speed	4 msec/line
Brand	Canon
Warranty	1-year limited warranty

Scanners for Artwork Buying Guide

If you are still hesitant to decide which scanner to get, let’s break down some of the most important criteria you should consider.

Some are more technical aspects, while others are purely user-experience and ending results.

DPI – Dots Per Inch

The first thing you should look for in a scanner is a large number of DPI.

DPI value determines resolution. It tells you how many dots of your art will the scanner capture by inch.

If you have smaller artwork, 4000×4000 dpi could be an excellent choice.

For larger formats, you need a better resolution, at least 4800×4800 dpi.

Remember, the larger DPI, the better the image quality you will get in digital format.

Colors

There are endless numbers of shades you can create, but scanners can pick up only a limited number.

Luckily, the technology developed, and there are scanners that can catch trillion shades today, which is pretty impressive.

The performance of a scanner regarding catching colors is important especially if you want to restore some all painting.

As you know, colors can fade on the originals due to time or not adequate way of storing. For that work, you will need a fine scanner, able to recreate the original colors.

Speed And Use

If you have to scan a bulk of old art, it will take time. Scanners in the past took a lot of time to make a digital format. Nowadays, the speed is in seconds.

So, when buying a scanner, check how fast a scanner can finish one hard copy of an artwork.

Some medium format scanners can finish the job in 3 seconds, while others need 10 seconds per copy.

Also, you don’t want a complex device. Having large simple buttons will ease the work.

The auto-scan feature, as seen in some of the scanners I reviewed, is a practical feature as well.

Storage

Cloud systems are the best way to store your files. Some scanners can send the scans directly to the cloud, such as Google Drive, Evernote or Dropbox.

It can save you time and ensure that you never ever lose track of your file on your computer.

Other Functions

Will you print your scans, copy them or fax them to other people?

Some scanners can have all of these functions. Others can only scan and email images.

Many artists print their work, so if you are one of them, get the scanner with at least printing function.

Format

Think about your artwork. What paper size do you usually draw on?

There are standard scanners for papers letter size (8.5″x11″), legal documents (8.5″x14″), or larger sizes (11″x17″).

Connectivity

If you need a scanner for personal use, then you can buy one without network connectivity option. On the other hand, if you need to connect several computers for shared access, find the one with network module enabled.

Those are more suitable for office needs.

Software

All scanners come with integrated software. For artwork scanning, you will need some specialized software for image retouch, restoring colors, or adjusting tones and shades.

Research what opportunities integrated software offers.

Consider investing in professional-grade software to enhance the quality of the scans, if integrated doesn’t seem like enough.

FAQs

Still have questions? Let’s resolve the most common question you may have.

My Top Pick

When it comes to scanning artwork, your best bet is the Epson V600 model. It has superb resolution with great enlargement options and brilliant software.

On top of everything, the Epson V600 is great with photos, prints, films, drawings, blueprints… The list is endless.

While the majority of scanners come with a 1-year warranty, Epson stands out with a 2-year warranty. Overall, it is best for scanning the arts.

What is your experience with scanning art? Have you tried any of the scanners from my list? Share your thoughts, you might help someone to decide.