When searching for the best flatbed scanner for art prints, image quality and color accuracy are paramount. The Epson Perfection V850 Pro stands out as the overall top choice thanks to its exceptional resolution and color fidelity, ideal for professional-level reproductions. The Plustek OS1180 offers a great balance of size and detail, making it suitable for artists and hobbyists alike. However, buyers face tradeoffs between resolution, size, and price, which can complicate decisions. Continue reading for a detailed breakdown of these options and what makes each one unique.
Key Takeaways
- High-resolution scanners like the Epson V850 Pro deliver the best detail, but come at a premium price.
- Size and format support are critical—larger prints require larger scanning beds like A3 or larger.
- Refurbished models can offer significant savings without sacrificing too much quality, especially for non-commercial use.
- Color accuracy and bit depth matter more for art prints than raw DPI alone.
- Ease of use and software compatibility vary and should match the user’s skill level and workflow.
| VIISAN 3120 A3 Flatbed Scanner, 1200 DPI, CIS Sensor, USB, Supports Windows & Mac |  | Best Overall for Versatile Large-Format Scanning | Scanner Type: Flatbed | Resolution: 1200 dpi | Sensor Technology: CIS | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| VIISAN 3120 A3 Flatbed Scanner – Professionally Refurbished, 1200 DPI, CIS Sensor, Scan 11.7″ x 16.7″ in 8 Sec, Document, Photo & Book Scanner for Library, School & SOHO, Windows & Mac |  | Best for Budget-Conscious Educational and Library Use | Scanner Type: Document | Resolution: 1200 DPI | Color Depth: 48 bits | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Plustek OS1180 Flat Scanner for A3 Documents and Graphics |  | Best for Large-Format Art and Graphics with OCR | Maximum Scan Size: 11.7″ x 17″ | Scan Speed: Approximately 9 seconds | Color Depth: 48 bits | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Plustek OpticPro A320E Large Format Flatbed Scanner – 12″ x 17″ / A3 Size |  | Best for Professional Architectural and Map Scanning | Scanner Type: Image Scanner | Resolution: 3840×2160 | Maximum Scan Size: 12″ x 17″ | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| VIISAN VF3240 Large Format Flatbed Scanner – A3 Size, 2400 DPI, Factory Refurbished |  | Best for Ultra-High-Resolution Art and Professional Archiving | Scanner Type: Flatbed | Maximum Resolution: 2400 DPI | Media Size: A3 (297 x 420 mm) | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Epson Perfection V39 II Flatbed Photo Scanner 4800 dpi Optical Resolution |  | Best Overall for Compact High-Quality Art Scanning | Optical Resolution: 4800 dpi | Scan Speed: up to 10 seconds for letter-sized at 300 dpi | Connectivity: USB-powered | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Canon CanoScan LiDE 400 Slim Scanner, Document & Photo Scanner, Black |  | Best for Speed and Simplicity in Art Print Scanning | Resolution: 4800 dpi | Scan Speed: 8 seconds per scan | Connection Type: USB | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Epson Expression 13000XL Large Format Flatbed Photo Scanner |  | Best for Professional Large-Format Art Archiving | Maximum media size: 12.2″ x 17.2″ | Resolution: 2400 x 4800 dpi | Optical density: 3.8 Dmax | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Epson Perfection V19 II Flatbed Photo Scanner 4800 dpi |  | Best Compact Portable Scanner for Art Prints | Optical Resolution: 4800 dpi | Weight: 3.1 lbs | Features: One-touch scanning, OCR, photo fix | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| flatbed scanner for art print | Color Depth | Resolution | Connectivity |
|---|---|---|---|
| VIISAN 3120 A3 Flatbed Scanner | 48-bit | 1200 dpi | — |
| VIISAN 3120 A3 Flatbed Scanner | 48 bits | 1200 DPI | — |
| Plustek OS1180 Flat Scanner fo | 48 bits | — | USB 2.0 |
| Plustek OpticPro A320E Large F | 8 bpp | 3840×2160 | USB |
| VIISAN VF3240 Large Format Fla | 48 bits | — | USB |
| Epson Perfection V39 II Flatbe | — | — | USB-powered |
| Canon CanoScan LiDE 400 Slim S | 48-bit | 4800 dpi | — |
| Epson Expression 13000XL Large | 48-bit | 2400 x 4800 dpi | — |
| Epson Perfection V19 II Flatbe | — | — | USB |
More Details on Our Top Picks
VIISAN 3120 A3 Flatbed Scanner, 1200 DPI, CIS Sensor, USB, Supports Windows & Mac
The VIISAN 3120 stands out for its combination of high resolution and fast scanning speed, making it an excellent choice for artists who need to digitize large prints efficiently. Compared to the Plustek OS1180, it offers a slightly higher resolution (1200 DPI vs. 900 DPI), which benefits detailed art reproduction. However, it is limited to flat paper items and lacks advanced features like batch processing. Its compatibility with both Windows and Mac broadens usability, but white lines can appear if the scanner isn’t kept clean, requiring maintenance. This model is best suited for artists and small studios seeking reliable, high-quality scans of large flat artworks without extra frills.
Pros:- High-resolution scanning up to 1200 DPI for detailed reproductions
- Fast scan speed of about 8 seconds for A3 documents
- Supports large documents and thick items
- Compatible with Windows and Mac systems
Cons:- Limited to flat paper images, not suitable for 3D objects
- White lines may appear if cleaning isn’t maintained
Best for: Artists and small studios needing quick, high-res scans of large flat artwork and photos.
Not ideal for: 3D artwork or textured materials, which this flatbed can’t handle well.
- Scanner Type:Flatbed
- Resolution:1200 dpi
- Sensor Technology:CIS
- Light Source:RGB LED
- Media Type:Paper, Photos, Documents
- Connection Type:USB
- Color Depth:48-bit
- Maximum Document Size:11.7″ x 16.7″
- Warranty:1 year
Our verdict“This scanner offers a balanced mix of speed and resolution, ideal for artists needing large-format flat scans without extra complexity.”
VIISAN 3120 A3 Flatbed Scanner – Professionally Refurbished, 1200 DPI, CIS Sensor, Scan 11.7″ x 16.7″ in 8 Sec, Document, Photo & Book Scanner for Library, School & SOHO, Windows & Mac
This refurbished VIISAN 3120 offers strong value for institutions like libraries and schools, providing high-resolution scans at a rapid pace comparable to the new version. While it shares the same core specs as the original, its refurbished status might mean minor cosmetic flaws, making it less ideal for professional studios. Its compact weight and auto-scan features make it user-friendly for frequent use, but it requires the supplied software to achieve full resolution, which could be a hassle for some users. Compared with the Plustek OS1180, it provides a more straightforward setup for large flat documents, but it’s limited to flat paper media, not textured or 3D items. It’s best suited for educational or small-office environments where cost savings are prioritized without sacrificing essential quality.
Pros:- High-resolution 1200 DPI scans for detailed images
- Fast 8-second scanning speed for large documents
- Auto-Scan feature simplifies workflow
- Compatible with both Windows and macOS
Cons:- Refurbished units may show minor cosmetic defects
- Requires software to maximize resolution
- Limited to flat, large documents only
Best for: Schools, libraries, and small offices needing reliable large-format scanning on a budget.
Not ideal for: Artists requiring professional-grade color accuracy or standalone operation without software dependency.
- Scanner Type:Document
- Resolution:1200 DPI
- Color Depth:48 bits
- Item Weight:320 g
- Connection Type:USB
- Maximum Document Size:11.7″ x 16.7″
Our verdict“Ideal for budget-conscious institutions that need dependable large-format scans without premium extras.”
Plustek OS1180 Flat Scanner for A3 Documents and Graphics
The Plustek OS1180 is designed specifically for artists and designers who need quick, detailed scans of large-format artwork. Its approximately 9-second scan speed for A3 and software bundle, including ABBYY FineReader, make it especially suitable for digitizing detailed graphics and performing OCR on large documents. While it excels in ease of use and high-quality 48-bit color depth, it is limited strictly to A3 size, making it less suitable for oversized projects. Its weight of 9.5 pounds adds some portability concerns, but it’s still manageable for a dedicated workspace. Compared with the VIISAN 3120, it emphasizes OCR and ease of use, making it better for artists who need text recognition alongside images. It’s a good pick for artists or small studios focused on large, detailed graphics with integrated text processing.
Pros:- Fast 9-second scan speed for A3 documents
- High-quality 48-bit color and gray-scale scans
- Includes OCR software for accurate text recognition
- Easy to operate with preset one-touch buttons
Cons:- Limited to A3 size, not suitable for larger artworks
- No standalone operation; needs connection to PC
- Heavy at 9.5 pounds
Best for: Artists and designers needing fast, high-quality scans with OCR for large-format art projects.
Not ideal for: Those who require scanning of oversized or non-flat materials, as the device is limited to A3.
- Maximum Scan Size:11.7″ x 17″
- Scan Speed:Approximately 9 seconds
- Color Depth:48 bits
- Connectivity:USB 2.0
- Supported Software:ABBYY FineReader
- Item Weight:9.5 pounds
Our verdict“This scanner offers rapid, high-detail scans with OCR, perfect for artists and designers focused on large-format graphics that include text.”
Plustek OpticPro A320E Large Format Flatbed Scanner – 12″ x 17″ / A3 Size
The Plustek OpticPro A320E is tailored for professionals needing precise scans of large-format materials like maps, blueprints, or artwork, offering a high resolution of 3840×2160 pixels. Its support for up to 12″ x 17″ media makes it more versatile than smaller flatbeds, and its OCR and batch scanning features boost productivity. Compared to the VIISAN 3120, it provides a much higher resolution, but with a heavier build and more complex setup, it’s less suitable for casual or mobile use. Its compatibility with Windows, Mac, and Linux makes it highly adaptable for diverse workflows. However, its weight of over 7 kg and higher wattage might limit portability. This model is best suited for professionals who need detailed digital reproductions of large, complex materials.
Pros:- Supports large media up to 12″ x 17″
- Ultra-high resolution of 3840×2160 pixels
- Includes OCR and batch scanning for efficiency
- Compatible with multiple OS including Linux
Cons:- Heavy and bulky, less portable
- Higher power consumption at 30W
- More complex setup and operation
Best for: Architects, engineers, and mapmakers needing ultra-high-resolution, large-format scans with batch processing.
Not ideal for: Artists or hobbyists seeking a lightweight, simple device for occasional use on small projects.
- Scanner Type:Image Scanner
- Resolution:3840×2160
- Maximum Scan Size:12″ x 17″
- Connectivity:USB
- Color Depth:8 bpp
- Wattage:30 watts
Our verdict“This scanner excels for detailed, large-format professional work but may be overkill for casual or infrequent use.”
VIISAN VF3240 Large Format Flatbed Scanner – A3 Size, 2400 DPI, Factory Refurbished
The VIISAN VF3240 offers an impressive 2400 DPI resolution, making it the top choice for artists and archivists who need the finest detail reproduction. Its speed of just 4 seconds for A3 color scans surpasses most competitors, including the VIISAN 3120, which maxes out at 1200 DPI. The device’s high resolution makes it ideal for professional projects where detail is paramount, such as fine art scans or digital archiving. The fact that it’s refurbished means cost savings but also potential minor cosmetic wear, so it’s best for users comfortable with that. Its USB connection and auto-scan features streamline workflows, but it’s limited to USB and might require specific system drivers. Overall, this pick makes the most sense for those prioritizing maximum detail in large-format scans.
Pros:- Highest resolution among options at 2400 DPI
- Fast 4-second scan times for A3 color documents
- Auto-scan and one-touch operation simplify workflow
- Supports large A3 media and detailed image capture
Cons:- Refurbished units may have minor cosmetic signs
- Limited to USB connectivity, no wireless options
- Requires compatible drivers for use
Best for: Artists, professional archivists, and high-end art reproduction specialists needing maximum resolution.
Not ideal for: Casual users or those needing wireless functionality or portability, as it’s primarily a wired, desktop device.
- Scanner Type:Flatbed
- Maximum Resolution:2400 DPI
- Media Size:A3 (297 x 420 mm)
- Connectivity:USB
- Color Depth:48 bits
- Item Weight:320 g
Our verdict“This high-resolution scanner is perfect for professionals demanding the finest detail in large artwork or archival projects.”
Epson Perfection V39 II Flatbed Photo Scanner 4800 dpi Optical Resolution
The Epson Perfection V39 II stands out for delivering detailed 4800 dpi scans in a compact, space-saving design, making it an excellent choice for artists who want high resolution without bulk. Compared with the Epson Expression 13000XL, it offers a more accessible size and simpler operation but sacrifices some advanced media handling and large-format capabilities. Its one-touch features and Easy Photo Fix technology streamline restoration tasks, which is ideal for casual or home studio use. However, it requires an internet connection for software updates and is limited to flatbed scanning, so it might struggle with very large or complex art prints. This model is perfect for artists needing detailed, high-quality scans in a small footprint, but not for those working with oversized or batch media.
Pros:- High-resolution 4800 dpi scans for detailed reproduction
- Compact, space-saving design with portable features
- Supports photo restoration and stitching of oversized images
- One-touch scanning and cloud support
Cons:- Requires internet for software updates and cloud features
- Limited to flatbed scanning, no document feeder
Best for: Artists and hobbyists who need high-res scans of art prints in a compact, easy-to-use package
Not ideal for: Professionals working with large-format or batch scanning, due to size and feature limitations
- Optical Resolution:4800 dpi
- Scan Speed:up to 10 seconds for letter-sized at 300 dpi
- Connectivity:USB-powered
- Features:One-touch scanning, Easy Photo Fix, Stitching, OCR
- Removable Lid:Yes
- Space-saving Kickstand:Yes
Our verdict“This scanner is ideal for artists seeking high-quality, detailed scans in a small, user-friendly device.”
Canon CanoScan LiDE 400 Slim Scanner, Document & Photo Scanner, Black
The Canon CanoScan LiDE 400 offers impressively fast scans at just 8 seconds per image, making it a strong choice for artists who need quick turnaround times. Its high resolution of 4800 x 4800 dpi ensures detailed reproductions, rivaling the Epson V39 II, but with a slightly more streamlined workflow thanks to its ‘EZ’ buttons and auto scan mode. While it excels in speed and ease of use, it is limited to single sheets, lacking the batch processing capability of larger professional scanners like the Epson Expression 13000XL. Additionally, it’s only compatible with Windows 7 and above, which could be a drawback for Mac users. This pick makes the most sense for artists or small studios focused on quick, high-quality scans of individual prints without the need for large-format or batch handling.
Pros:- Fast scan speed of 8 seconds per image
- High resolution of 4800 x 4800 dpi for detailed images
- Easy-to-use ‘EZ’ buttons and auto scan mode
- Supports PDF creation directly from the device
Cons:- Limited to single sheet scans at a time
- No wireless or multi-page document handling
Best for: Artists and small studios prioritizing fast, high-resolution scans of individual art prints
Not ideal for: Professionals needing large-format or batch scanning capabilities, or Mac users due to compatibility issues
- Resolution:4800 dpi
- Scan Speed:8 seconds per scan
- Connection Type:USB
- Features:‘EZ’ buttons, auto scan, PDF support
- Color Depth:48-bit
- Dimensions:7.7″ x 14.5″ x 0.4″
Our verdict“This scanner is perfect for artists who need quick, high-res scans of individual prints with minimal fuss.”
Epson Expression 13000XL Large Format Flatbed Photo Scanner
The Epson Expression 13000XL caters to professional artists and archivists needing large-format, high-detail scans, with a maximum media size of 12.2″ x 17.2″ and resolution up to 2400 x 4800 dpi. Its broad media handling and batch scanning capabilities position it above smaller, consumer-focused models like the V39 II or LiDE 400. The inclusion of advanced software like SilverFast Ai enhances color accuracy and detail, critical for art reproduction and archival work. However, its size and cost make it less suitable for casual users or small studios without dedicated space or budget. The optional transparency unit (sold separately) adds versatility but increases complexity and expense. This model is best suited for professionals who need large prints scanned with precision, willing to invest in a bulky, high-end device.
Pros:- Exceptional detail with 2400 x 4800 dpi resolution
- Supports media up to 12.2″ x 17.2″ for large artworks
- Batch scanning and one-touch color restoration
- Includes professional software for accurate color reproduction
Cons:- High cost and large size limit accessibility
- Transparency unit sold separately adds expense
Best for: Professional artists, archivers, and graphic firms requiring large-format, detailed scans of art prints and media
Not ideal for: Hobbyists or small studios lacking space or budget for a large, expensive scanner
- Maximum media size:12.2″ x 17.2″
- Resolution:2400 x 4800 dpi
- Optical density:3.8 Dmax
- Color depth:48-bit
- Media types:Reflective and transparent (with optional unit)
- Software included:LaserSoft Imaging SilverFast Ai
Our verdict“This large-format scanner is the best choice for professionals archiving or digitizing large, detailed art prints with high fidelity.”
Epson Perfection V19 II Flatbed Photo Scanner 4800 dpi
The Epson Perfection V19 II is designed for artists who need high-quality scans on the go, offering 4800 dpi resolution in a lightweight, portable form. Its small footprint and USB power make it ideal for artists working in multiple locations or with limited space. While it provides comparable resolution to the V39 II, it lacks some advanced features like stitching or cloud support, making it more suitable for straightforward scanning tasks. Compared with larger models like the Epson Expression 13000XL, it is less capable of handling large or complex media but shines in portability and ease of use. Its built-in software helps restore photo colors and create searchable PDFs, which is helpful for artists digitizing prints for online portfolios or archiving. This makes it a strong pick for mobile artists or students needing high-res scans without bulk.
Pros:- High-resolution 4800 dpi scans for detailed reproductions
- Lightweight and portable with USB power
- Built-in software for photo restoration and searchable PDFs
- Easy one-touch operation
Cons:- Limited to flatbed scanning without advanced features
- Some features require additional software download
Best for: Artists needing a portable, high-resolution scanner for art prints and documents on the go
Not ideal for: Professionals working with large or multiple artworks simultaneously, due to size and feature limitations
- Optical Resolution:4800 dpi
- Weight:3.1 lbs
- Features:One-touch scanning, OCR, photo fix
- Connectivity:USB
- Built-in Kickstand:Yes
- Dimensions:not specified but compact
Our verdict“This scanner is perfect for mobile artists or students who need high-res scans with portability and ease of use.”
How We Picked
To determine the best flatbed scanners for art prints, I focused on key factors like maximum resolution, color accuracy, build quality, and ease of use. I prioritized models that support high-detail scanning essential for reproducing artwork faithfully. Durability and compatibility with both Windows and Mac also influenced the rankings, alongside value for money and user reviews. Each product was evaluated on how well it balances these elements, with a clear distinction made between professional-grade and more affordable options to suit different needs and budgets.| flatbed scanner for art print | Connectivity |
|---|---|
| VIISAN 3120 A3 Flatbed Scanner | — |
| VIISAN 3120 A3 Flatbed Scanner | — |
| Plustek OS1180 Flat Scanner fo | USB 2.0 |
| Plustek OpticPro A320E Large F | USB |
| VIISAN VF3240 Large Format Fla | USB |
| Epson Perfection V39 II Flatbe | USB-powered |
| Canon CanoScan LiDE 400 Slim S | — |
| Epson Expression 13000XL Large | — |
| Epson Perfection V19 II Flatbe | USB |
Factors to Consider When Choosing Best Flatbed Scanner For Art Prints
Choosing the right flatbed scanner for art prints involves balancing several important factors. Higher resolution scanners capture more detail, but may cost more and be slower. Size support is crucial if you plan to scan large artwork, requiring A3 or larger beds. Color fidelity, including bit depth and calibration capabilities, influences how accurately your scans reflect the original. Ease of use and software features can make a big difference in workflow, especially for those without technical expertise. Lastly, consider your budget and whether refurbished or entry-level models meet your needs without sacrificing quality.Resolution and Image Quality
For art prints, resolution directly impacts how detailed and true-to-life your digital reproductions will be. Look for scanners with at least 4800 dpi if you plan to enlarge or print your scans at large sizes. Higher DPI ensures finer details, but it also results in larger file sizes and longer scan times. Balancing resolution with your storage and workflow needs is key; sometimes, a slightly lower dpi with better color accuracy yields more satisfying results.
Size Support and Format Compatibility
The physical size of the scanner bed determines what artworks you can scan without cropping or tiling. A3 or larger beds are preferable for sizable art prints. Additionally, check if the scanner supports various formats—especially those common for art, such as TIFF or high-bit-depth PNG. This ensures your scans retain maximum quality and are suitable for editing or printing later.
Color Accuracy and Bit Depth
Color fidelity is essential for faithfully reproducing artwork. Look for scanners with at least 24-bit color depth, which can capture over 16 million colors. Some professional models offer 48-bit support, providing even richer color gradations. Proper calibration tools or software support can help maintain consistent color accuracy over time, reducing the need for post-processing corrections.
Ease of Use and Software Features
A straightforward interface and reliable software can significantly streamline the scanning process. Features like auto-cropping, dust removal, and color correction are valuable for artists and enthusiasts who want quick, high-quality results. Compatibility with popular editing programs and ease of driver installation also matter, especially for those less comfortable with technical setups.
Budget and Value Considerations
While high-end scanners offer superior quality, they come at a premium. Refurbished models or mid-range options can provide excellent results at a lower cost, especially if you don’t need professional-level features. Always weigh the cost against your specific needs—investing more makes sense if you require precise color matching or large-format support, but a budget-friendly model might suffice for casual use.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a higher DPI always better for scanning art prints?
Higher DPI allows for capturing more detail, which is beneficial for enlarging or archiving artwork. However, beyond a certain point—around 4800 dpi—the practical benefits diminish unless you need large, detailed prints. Very high DPI scans also produce larger files, which can slow down processing and storage. Therefore, aim for a balance between resolution and your specific reproduction needs.
Can I use a standard document scanner for art prints?
Most standard document scanners lack the resolution, size support, and color fidelity required for high-quality art reproduction. While they may handle small, simpler works, they typically produce inferior results for detailed or large artwork. Investing in a dedicated flatbed scanner with higher DPI and larger beds is advisable if art print scanning is a regular task.
Are refurbished scanners a reliable choice for art prints?
Refurbished scanners can be a cost-effective solution that offers good quality, especially from reputable sources. They often undergo testing and repairs that restore performance close to new. However, it’s essential to verify warranty coverage and the condition of key components like sensors and calibration tools to ensure consistent results for artwork reproduction.
What features should I prioritize if I want accurate color matching?
For precise color matching, look for scanners with high bit depth (at least 48-bit support), color calibration tools, and software that allows manual adjustments. Some models come with built-in calibration and profiling options, which help ensure your digital images reflect the original artwork accurately. Consistent lighting conditions during scanning also improve color fidelity.
How important is software compatibility for art print scanning?
Software compatibility can greatly influence your workflow, especially if you use editing programs like Photoshop or Lightroom. Reliable, easy-to-use scanning software reduces frustrations and allows you to optimize scans quickly. Check that the scanner driver supports your operating system and that the included software offers features like auto-correction, dust removal, and batch scanning if needed.
Conclusion
The best overall choice for most artists and serious hobbyists is the Epson Perfection V850 Pro, thanks to its superb resolution and color accuracy. For those on a budget, the VIISAN 3120 A3 Flatbed Scanner offers solid performance at an attractive price point, especially if refurbished. Beginners or casual users might prefer the Canon CanoScan LiDE 400 for its simplicity and compact design. If large-format scans are your focus, the Epson Expression 13000XL provides professional-grade support, though at a higher cost. Ultimately, your choice depends on your specific needs for size, detail, and budget.
