Digital Product Analysis & Reviews

Best Large Format Scanner 2023

by Remington May

Scanning has become a large part of work today for a lot of different professionals. Artists, for instance, fall under this category as they use scanners to store digitized versions of their work. However it does not end there.

With social media being at its peak, it is important for them to be able to showcase their work. And scanning their artwork proves to be one of the top ways to do it.

When it comes to artists however, you need a scanner that can accommodate large pages, since you never know what size your art work is going to be. To buy the best large format scanner out there simply keep on reading.

You will find an excellent selection of some of the top models in the market, along with their reviews and comparisons. This will help you see which one caters well to your needs.

List of Top 10 Large Format Scanners

1. Plustek A3 Flatbed Scanner OS 1180

2. CZUR ET16 Plus Scanner

3. Epson DS-50000

4. Xerox DocuMate 3220

5. Fujitsu SCANSNAP S1100i

6. Epson Expression 12000XL-PH

7. HP ScanJet Pro 2500 f1

8. Colortrac SmartLF

9. Colortrac SmartLF Scan!

10. Contex SD One+

Comparison Chart For Top 10 Large Format Scanners

Image Name Resolution (dpi) Special Feature
Plustek A3 Large Format Flatbed Scanner OS 1180 : 11.7x17 scan Size for Blueprints and Document. Design for Library, School and Soho. A3 scan for 8 sec, Support Mac and PC Plustek A3 Flatbed Scanner OS 1180

1200

4 easy one touch button
CZUR ET16 Plus Advanced Book & Document Scanner, 2nd Gen Auto-Flatten&Deskew Tech, 16MP Sony Camera, Capture A3, 186 Languages OCR, Convert to PDF/Searchable PDF/Word/Tiff/Excel, Run On Windows&MacOS CZUR ET16 Plus Scanner

250

Dual page scan
Epson DS-50000 Large-Format Document Scanner: 11.7” x 17” flatbed, TWAIN & ISIS Drivers, 3-Year Warranty with Next Business Day Replacement Epson DS-50000

600x600

TWAIN & ISIS compatible
Xerox DocuMate 3220 Duplex Document Scanner with Flatbed Xerox DocuMate 3220

600

23 ppm/46 ipm black and white
13 ppm/26 ipm in color
Fujitsu SCANSNAP S1100i MOBILE SCANNER PC/MAC Fujitsu SCANSNAP S1100i

600

USB powered
Epson Expression 12000XL-PH Flatbed Scanner Epson Expression 12000XL-PH

2400 x 4800

Included transparency unit
HP ScanJet Pro 2500 f1 Flatbed Scanner (L2747A) HP ScanJet Pro 2500 f1

1200

20 ppm
40 ipm
Colortrac SmartLF 36-inch wide color scanner Colortrac SmartLF

600

Scanning software installed
Colortrac SmartLF Scan! 24 Colortrac SmartLF Scan!

1200

Portable
Contex SD One+ 36-inch Large Format Sheetfed Scanner - 600 dpi Optical 5300D012006 Contex SD One+

600

USB interface

Best large format scanner Reviews

 Best large format scanner Reviews
Best large format scanner Reviews

1. Plustek A3 Flatbed Scanner OS 1180- Best Large Format Scanner For Artwork

The Plustek OpticSlim is a great choice as a scanner if you aim to use for artwork. Another frequent use of the OpticSlim is book scanning. Often you wish to keep numerous books, but cannot find their PDFs online for download.

You can scan and store them using this. The large format makes it easy for you to scan two side-by side pages simultaneously saving you time as well. Mentionable features of this scanner primarily include the LED light source.

This helps the device work instantly without wasting any time in warming up. Being stable, this LED makes sure that every scan that comes out is of the utmost quality.

Coming to the speed, the OpticSlim is not far behind either. It only takes 9 second to scan an A3 sized paper in grayscale, and 15 seconds when in color. In other words, it has a 300 DPI.

Even though this is well suited to scanning artwork, its use is not limited to it. Any large paper or document that you wish to have scanned can be done through this as well.

4 one touch buttons come with 4 distinct features which makes using the scanner easy. These include a scan button, one for the OCR, one for PDF and one for email. All together these allow you to have a good experience with the scanner.

Plustek A3 Large Format Flatbed Scanner OS 1180 : 11.7x17 scan Size for Blueprints and Document. Design for Library, School and Soho. A3 scan for 8 sec, Support Mac and PC
Plustek A3 Large Format Flatbed Scanner OS 1180 : 11.7x17 scan Size for Blueprints and Document. Design for Library, School and Soho. A3 scan for 8 sec, Support Mac and PC

Highlighted Features

  • Has an optical resolution of 1200 dpi
  • Comes with a LED light source
  • Features 4 easy one touch button
  • OCR technology integrated for organization

2. CZUR ET16 Plus Scanner- Best Large Format Scanners For Artists

Different from your traditional scanners, the CZUR ET16 Plus brings a lot of features to the table that will ensure an excellent scanning experience. This is perfect for artists because of the big scan area that you get.

Let us start by talking about the innovative side lighting. At first glance, this scanner looks different than most, due to this feature. The side lights let this device reveal the entire document.

So you get a well-balanced scan with precise texts. This also helps to eliminate the glare you experience from glossy pages. This occurs a lot when scanning magazines or laminated surfaces.

But thanks to this feature, it will not happen with the ET16 Plus. One issue we have all faced with scanning- distorted results. Sometimes the pages are crooked, the dog ears show up in the scan and many more as such.

With this scanner, you will face them as well, except, the scanner can correct this after you are done. Smart processing allows the curved edges to come out as flat. If you are holding the edges down, it will recognize your fingers, and will crop them out on its own in the final copy.

Even if you randomly place your paper and it turns out sideways, the scanner will correct this too. Alongside the other great features, this scanner also helps you scan dual pages in as little as 1.5 seconds.

CZUR ET16 Plus Advanced Book & Document Scanner, 2nd Gen Auto-Flatten&Deskew Tech, 16MP Sony Camera, Capture A3, 186 Languages OCR, Convert to PDF/Searchable PDF/Word/Tiff/Excel, Run On Windows&MacOS
CZUR ET16 Plus Advanced Book & Document Scanner, 2nd Gen Auto-Flatten&Deskew Tech, 16MP Sony Camera, Capture A3, 186 Languages OCR, Convert to PDF/Searchable PDF/Word/Tiff/Excel, Run On Windows&MacOS

Highlighted Features

  • Eliminates glare from glossy surfaces
  • Smart scanner allows for scan correction
  • Features 32-bit MIPS CPU
  • Efficient OCR lets you convert scans

3. Epson DS-50000- Best Large Format Flatbed Scanner

Epson is without a doubt one of the top brands when it comes to scanners. So it is no surprise that we have one here on the list. This scanner is a good choice if you are looking for a flatbed scanner.

Given its area, this can be used in a variety of settings. Very office friendly, this scanner makes document, ledgers, books and even artwork scanning a breeze thanks to its sheer size.

Connectivity is a big feature today. Suppose you want to change places and use your scanner with a different software. Without a flexible connectivity, you will not be able to achieve that.

The TWAIN and ISIS drivers on this DS-50000 allows this scanner to be compatible with absolutely any software out there. You can integrate this into your system without any issue whatsoever.

Network scanning capability is a plus. This lets you turn your individual scanner into a workgroup scanner. This way multiple people can have access to it.

Well suited for group work, because now everybody can have the same quality scans for the final work. OCR technology is one you find in most scanners today, and this one is no exception.

With this you can easily concert your scanned copies into searchable PDFs. Why do you need this? To be able to look them up at your convenience and organize them as you wish.

Epson DS-50000 Large-Format Document Scanner: 11.7” x 17” flatbed, TWAIN & ISIS Drivers, 3-Year Warranty with Next Business Day Replacement
Epson DS-50000 Large-Format Document Scanner: 11.7” x 17” flatbed, TWAIN & ISIS Drivers, 3-Year Warranty with Next Business Day Replacement

Highlighted Features

  • Comes with USB cable connection
  • 4-line CCD sensor allows for vivid colors
  • OCR software makes organization easy
  • TWAIN and ISIS Driver compatible

4. Xerox DocuMate 3220

If you are looking for a flatbed scanner, this Xerox DocuMate 3220 ought to be on your list. First of all, this is a two-in-one scanner. You get a flatbed scanner along with an automatic document feeder.

Together these make it a very flexible and fast scanner for work needs. Great for professionals in numerous fields, because it does not only let you scan documents.

You can use this to scan your business cards, plastic cards, receipts, handwritten notes and many more. The one touch setting is provided to make the scanner easier to use.

We are very accustomed today to the touch screen, and this simply makes use more convenient. You get a total of 9 presets for different settings.

The Visoneer Acuity is here to help your correct those tiny mistakes that always make their way through to the final scan. From improving the visual quality to getting rid of marks and wrinkles, and even smudges that might have appeared, the scanner will fix it all.

Once the scanned image quality has been improved, it becomes easier for it to organize with the OCR software. This lets you convert your scans into PDFs. You can then look them up using the right keywords.

Besides being searchable, they are also editable thanks to this feature. The formatted text can later be used in web or desktop publishing, as well as word processing.

Xerox DocuMate 3220 Duplex Document Scanner with Flatbed
Xerox DocuMate 3220 Duplex Document Scanner with Flatbed

Highlighted Features

  • Has 9 presets for one touch scanning
  • Comes with a flatbed option
  • Visioneer Acuity improves scanning quality

5. Fujitsu SCANSNAP S1100i- Best Large Format Scanner For Mac

Made for businessmen on the run, this versatile scanner for Mac from Fujitsu is a good choice for anyone looking for a mobile scanner. It is lightweight, compact and easy to throw in your bag.

So if you ever need to scan outside of your workspace, it should not be a hassle. The dual scan feature lets you scan two different documents or cards simultaneously, as long as they fit the scanner.

This is mostly used for small papers or business cards. It helps to save time when in a rush. Being versatile, some might think it won't support larger formats.

Well you are wrong, because the automatic stitch feature will enable this. You can fold you page in half, scan both the sides, and the scanner will simply stitch them to create one scan.

Fujitsu SCANSNAP S1100i MOBILE SCANNER PC/MAC
Fujitsu SCANSNAP S1100i MOBILE SCANNER PC/MAC

Highlighted Features

  • Color documents scan takes 7.5 seconds
  • Can scan plastic cards as well
  • Works with both Mac and PC OS
  • Intelligent scan correction removes distortions

How To Choose The Right Large Format Scanner

Optical resolution

Resolution is without a doubt one of the important facts to see before buying a scanner. This will be provided with every model you find in DPI or dots per inch. Naturally, the higher the DPI value, the better your optical resolution.

Nowadays almost every scanner comes with at least 600 dpi. And while this is just fine for regular work, and gives quite good scans, it will not be sufficient for specific work.

If what you are scanning involves lots of intricate details, a 600 dpi will not do it justice. Some of the newer models give you up to 4800 dpi today. It will be on a higher price range, but you will get excellent results.

If you are an artist and want to scan to digitally showcase your work, try to go for the highest optical resolution you can.

Connection

How flexible your scanner can be is another important factor. Often you will have to connect to different devices to scan them, or maybe move it to a different office or location. Can it scan from there? These are questions you should be asking.

Some of the scanners we see today come with USB, which makes the work very easy. Another is a sharing software which comes with scanners for group work and projects.

This lets a group of people access it for work. This way everybody gets to have the same quality scans to bring together. Before your final decision, do make sure to check the connectivity options on the scanner.

The more options you get, the better, as it will let you use this in a variety of ways.

Speed

Most scanners today come with a decent scanning speed. When scanning in large format, it will surely take longer than smaller pages or smaller scanners. How much longer is that really?

If your scanner takes forever to scan one page, just imagine how long it will take for a bunch. You do not want to waste all that time waiting for scans now do you?

When checking out models of scanners, be sure to check out their scanning speed.

You will find this as pages per minute (ppm) or simply put out in words for how many seconds it takes for one scan. Obviously, the higher the better, and always opt for the highest you can stretch to for this feature.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is The Largest Flatbed Scanner Available?

The Epson WorkForce DS - 50000 is the largest flatbed scanner available in the current market. It can scan pages of size up to 11.7-inch x 17-inch. With this remarkable piece of machinery, you will be able to scan maps, posters, architectural designs, odd-sized drawings, and more.

How Do I Scan An Oversized Document?

To scan an oversized document, you will need to execute the scanning process with maximum caution and attention.

You need to first start scanning from one side of the document. Then slide the page over, trying to cover somewhat onto the recently scanned portion. This process will make sure every part of the document is scanned.

What Is The Highest DPI Scanner?

The Epson Perfection v600 scanner has the highest dpi rating amongst hundreds of thousands of units available. It offers an optical resolution of 6400 x 9600 dpi, one of the highest in the market. This incredible product has the capability to scan with maximum vibrancy and sharpness.

Final Words

One of the reasons why you should opt for scanners like these, is that it covers all needs. Whether or not you are an artist by profession, you never know when you might need to scan something large.

Yes, we understand how saturated the market is with so many varieties. But we hope that our little guide here will be able to help you out. Here we have listed some of the best large format scanners you can find today.

Even though these are all great, some have differing features. Check them out, as these small differences will matter in your final decision.

  1. Best 120 Film Scanner 2023
  2. Best 35mm Film Scanner 2023
  3. Best 11×17 Scanner 2023
  4. Best Book Scanner 2023

Buy them at eBay, Walmart, Etsy (subject to availability)

Epson E11000XL-GA Expression Graphic Arts Photo Scanner - Walmart, Etsy, eBay

Epson Perfection V850 Pro scanner - Walmart, Etsy, eBay

HP ScanJet Pro 2500 f1 Flatbed Scanner (L2747A) - Walmart, Etsy, eBay

Epson DS-50000 Large-Format Document Scanner: 11.7” x 17” flatbed, TWAIN & ISIS Drivers, - Walmart, Etsy, eBay

Epson Expression 12000XL-PH Flatbed Scanner - Walmart, Etsy, eBay

Xerox DocuMate 6440 Duplex Document Scanner for PC and Mac, Automatic Document Feeder - Walmart, Etsy, eBay

1. Plustek A3 Flatbed Scanner OS 1180 - Walmart, Etsy, eBay

2. CZUR ET16 Plus Scanner - Walmart, Etsy, Ebay

4. Xerox DocuMate 3220 - Walmart, Etsy, eBay

5. Fujitsu SCANSNAP S1100i - Walmart, Etsy, eBay

6. Epson Expression 12000XL-PH - Walmart, Etsy, eBay

7. HP ScanJet Pro 2500 f1 - Walmart, Etsy, eBay

9. Colortrac SmartLF Scan! - Walmart, Etsy, Ebay

10. Contex SD One+ - Walmart, Etsy, eBay

Epson WorkForce DS - 50000 - Walmart, Etsy, eBay

About Remington May

Remington May is a digital product blogger who loves to write about the latest and greatest in the tech world. She's always on the lookout for new and innovative ways to make her life easier, and she loves to share her findings with her readers. When she's not blogging or spending time with her family, Remington enjoys hiking and exploring new places.

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