10 Best Portable Scanners 2025 in the United States

The Brother DS-640 Compact Mobile Document Scanner is an excellent choice for those needing a portable scanning solution. Weighing just over a pound and measuring 11.9 inches in length, it's easy to carry and ideal for mobile professionals. The scanner offers a decent resolution of 300 dpi and can handle various document types, including receipts, ID cards, and documents up to 72 inches long.

Scanning speed is efficient at up to 16 pages per minute, making it suitable for quick tasks on-the-go. Connectivity is limited to USB, but it does power directly from the USB connection, eliminating the need for an additional power source, which enhances its portability. The included software suite is quite comprehensive, offering multiple 'scan-to' destinations and the capability to convert scans to editable Microsoft Word files.

It supports Windows, Mac, and Linux operating systems, making it versatile in terms of compatibility. On the downside, the resolution might not be high enough for those needing ultra-clear scans, and its reliance on USB connectivity may limit its use with newer laptops that favor USB-C or wireless connections. Also, the enhanced image optimization features are only available when connected to a PC. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Brother DS-640 is a solid choice for anyone needing a reliable and portable scanning solution with robust software support.

The Epson WorkForce ES-200 is a lightweight and compact portable scanner ideal for users who need to scan documents while on the go. It offers a solid resolution of 600 dpi, sufficient for most business documents, receipts, and IDs. A notable feature is its speed—scanning up to 25 pages per minute and capturing both sides of a document in a single pass, which saves time when handling double-sided papers.

Equipped with a 20-page Auto Document Feeder, the scanner facilitates quick batch scanning, although it may not be suitable for very large stacks. Connectivity is straightforward with USB power and data transfer, enabling use without an AC outlet, which is convenient for travel. Its portability is enhanced by a slim design and a weight of just 2.4 pounds, making it easy to carry around.

The included Epson ScanSmart software simplifies scanning tasks with features like automatic file naming and easy sharing options, though some users might find it basic compared to more advanced software suites. The scanner only connects via USB, lacking a wireless option for scanning from mobile devices or tablets. This makes it well-suited for professionals needing reliable, fast scanning of various document types away from the office, while those requiring wireless convenience or handling very large volumes may want to consider other options.

The Epson WorkForce ES-50 is a lightweight and compact portable sheet-fed document scanner that is perfect for users who need to scan on the go. Weighing only about 0.59 pounds and with dimensions that make it easy to carry, it excels in portability. It can scan a single page in as little as 5.5 seconds, making it one of the fastest in its class. This speed is especially beneficial for professionals who frequently process documents quickly, such as those in real estate, legal, or business environments.

In terms of document handling, the ES-50 can accommodate items up to 8.5 x 72 inches, along with ID cards and receipts, which adds versatility to its functionality. The inclusion of Nuance OCR software allows users to create searchable PDFs and editable files, enhancing productivity.

The scanner's USB-powered design eliminates the need for batteries or external power supplies, which is a great convenience. Additionally, it is compatible with both Windows and Mac systems, and it offers a TWAIN driver for use with various imaging software. There are some drawbacks to consider. As a single-sheet-fed scanner, it may not be the best option for those who need to scan multiple pages in one go without stopping to insert sheets manually, even though it does have an automatic feeding mode. The resolution, while adequate for general document scanning at 1200 DPI, may not satisfy users looking for extremely high-quality image scans, particularly for detailed graphics or photos.