What is duplex scanning?

Duplex scanning captures both sides of a page in a single pass, halving the time for double-sided documents. Single-pass duplex models are quicker than those that flip pages internally.

Do I need OCR on a document scanner?

Optical character recognition converts scanned images into searchable, editable text. It is useful for filing receipts, contracts and records you may later need to find or copy from.

Can a scanner handle receipts and business cards?

Many sheet-fed scanners accept mixed sizes, including narrow receipts and cards, often with software that sorts and extracts the data. Check the supported media weights and sizes.

The 3 best document scanners🇬🇧 United Kingdom

Methodology v1.0.0 · computed 13 Jun 2026 · how we rank · AI-drafted, pending editor review

Document scanners digitise paper into searchable files, ranging from sheet-fed desktop units to portable and flatbed designs. The best ones combine fast, reliable feeding with accurate text recognition and tidy software. Our top three are scored from aggregated UK reviews rather than chosen by us.

Best Overall

Fujitsu ScanSnap iX1600

Ricoh

Medium confidence · 2 sourcesNarrow win — +0.8 pts over #2

89.7

/ 100 · n=232

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Runner-up

Brother ADS-1700W

Brother

Medium confidence · 2 sources

88.9

/ 100 · n=321

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Best Value

Epson FastFoto FF-680W

Epson

Medium confidence · 2 sources

88.0

/ 100 · n=411

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What to look for in document scanners

•Scan speed, duplex capability and daily page volume
•OCR accuracy and output formats such as searchable PDF
•Feeder reliability, connectivity and bundled software

Frequently asked questions

What is duplex scanning?: Duplex scanning captures both sides of a page in a single pass, halving the time for double-sided documents. Single-pass duplex models are quicker than those that flip pages internally.
Do I need OCR on a document scanner?: Optical character recognition converts scanned images into searchable, editable text. It is useful for filing receipts, contracts and records you may later need to find or copy from.
Can a scanner handle receipts and business cards?: Many sheet-fed scanners accept mixed sizes, including narrow receipts and cards, often with software that sorts and extracts the data. Check the supported media weights and sizes.