best-scanners-for-medium-format-film

Best Scanners for Medium Format Film in 2023

In the 21st century, keeping black-and-white photos is not only backdated, but there is a big chance that you might end up losing some of your old and precious memories.

And we are quite sure that you do not want that ever to happen. Are you wondering what to do, and you don’t want to go to a photography shop to get these fixed?

Then our article is the perfect solution for you! You will see that we have provided ten scanners for medium format film reviews, and we assure you that if you have any one of them, you will fall in love with their superb functionalities and features!

9 Best Scanners for Medium Format Film 

The market has plenty of options to choose from. But that doesn’t mean every one of them performs well. Down below, you will find 10 of the finest scanners money can buy.

1. Kodak Mini Digital Film & Slide Scanner

Kodak’s scanners always offer top-notch performance and excellent functionalities. With their Mini scanner, you get all the features you would want in a scanner, and you can consider this one of the best scanners in the market for your home or office.

The scanner has a very compact dimension and is practically weightless (weighs around 8.8 ounces). Thus, moving the scanner is as effortless and straightforward as it can get, and you can place the product anywhere in your home without any effort. This will pair up perfectly with the printer that’s used occasionally in your home.

Apart from uncomplicated movement and placement, the product comes with several other perks that make it such a remarkable buy. With this, you can easily convert your old photos and films into sharper and more detailed JPEG files.

All you need to do is pick the correct adapter, and the unit’s unique technology will do its magic. You can also use the scanner to edit or view the scanned photos without the need for a computer or laptop. It comes with an LED display, which lets you see the images in high quality and permits you to edit on-spot through the device.

And the scanner comes with color correction and several other functions that will let you edit on the spot.

Plus, all the keys are placed in such a manner that it is pretty user-friendly for everyone. And unlike those expensive and heavy-duty scanners, the price of this one is quite affordable! Consequently, allowing you to enjoy these features along with many others at affordable pricing.

Pros

  • Offers easy transport and due to its compact size, placing it is like a breeze
  • Lets you scan, edit and view all the pictures in your arsenal
  • Comes with an LED display that allows you to view images at high quality
  • Has quite an affordable pricing
  • Aids you to film various sized films

Cons

  • Not a good choice for exhibition-level or official-level prints

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2. Epson Perfection V600 Scanner

Epson is one of the top brands in the market for scanners, and if you want the perfect digital files, then their V600 is the one to go for! With the unit, you can enhance 6400×9600 dpi to up to 17×22-inches.

Not only that, but the item also permits you to do several other types of work, such as removing dust, tears, creases, and scratches from the film. Therefore, providing you crystal clear pictures every time. 

And thanks to its ABBYY FineReader OCR, you can scan documents in an editable format. Therefore, making it a great option for official level usage. Yes, you can print shipping labels with the quality that it delivers. Besides, the resolution of pictures that are being scanned is marvelous. Each of the photos is scanned and stored in your PC at a high-resolution.

Furthermore, the thing offers top-notch efficiency. This means you won’t have to wait countless hours before you can get all your pictures or negatives scanned. In short, a scanner is a marvelous option for both home-level as well as office-level scanning.

Lastly, due to its sizeable scan area of around 8.5×11.7-inches, you can scan multiple files or documents in one go. Thus, boosting the efficiency of your work even further.

Pros

  • High depth as well as high resolution
  • Enables you to enlarge each film to quite a sizeable amount
  • Completely restores your old films and pictures
  • Permits you to scan documents in an editable format
  • Convenient dimensions

Cons

  • The price of the product is quite high

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3. Digitnow 135 Film Negative Scanner

Brilliant performance and easy-to-set-up are the features that everyone looks for when buying a scanner. Sadly, most of the scanners available in the market will grant you high-performance but not easy setup.

However, lucky for you, Digitnow brings you everything that you are looking for and more at a surprisingly modest price. This product of theirs will give you all the remarkable characteristics and costs from 40 to 50 dollars, which is too good to be true. Also, you’ll be surprised to hear that many screen printing setups of professional printers include this scanner as well.

The unit arrives with a cartridge system that lets you uncomplicatedly fit the films. Each of the cartridges is made in such a way that they perfectly hold the films and permits you to scan them without any unwanted movement or interruptions. Hence, providing you with optimum results every time.

One of the most lucrative features of the scanner is its compatibility with televisions, computers, and laptops. Because of this feature, you can view and store the data you have scanned in your tv or computer. Furthermore, it comes with a LED display that facilitates you to view the scanned images at a very high quality and resolution.

Plus, it comes with an SD card slot system. Hence, you can store the scanned films on the spot without needing a computer or laptop to store the data. And finally, due to its compact dimensions, setting it up in your home is not rocket science.

Pros

  • Stores all the scanned files into a JEPG format
  • As it has quite a convenient format, placing the device is a simple task
  • Comes at an unbelievably reasonable pricing
  • You can connect the device to your TVs, computers, etc.
  • Due to the SD card, you can store everything on the product

Cons

  • You can’t do professional-level work on the product

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4. Digitnow 22MP All-in-1 Film Scanner & Slide Scanner 

This all-in-1 scanner is a contender for the best scanner for medium format film title and guarantees to offer you a vast number of attributes and uses. And the resolution provided by the scanner is first-rate! It has two resolutions; one at 22 MP and the other at 16 M.

So, you will have the freedom to choose the perfect resolution for the task in hand. Hence, the scanner is ideal for fast scanning, giving you first-class results in the most optimal period. Plus, the various adapters that come with the scanner enable swift scanning and improves the whole scanning process even further. You can use this scanner with your foiling laser printer as well.

Moreover, the product’s compact dimensions allow offhand setup and assist you in placing the thing anywhere in your home or office. You will also not face any problems in figuring out how to use this.

All the control buttons are in a convenient location, which lets you easily control the whole scanning process with a single push. Plus, the unit can scan old photos and films into bright and vibrant images ready to be stored.

Next, the color LCD screen permits you to view all the details with crystal-like clearance. Also, it comes with a TV port, so you will be able to see all the pictures on your TV screen. 

In addition to that, the device has an SD-card slot, which enables you to store the scanned files in the card. You would not need a laptop or a computer.

Pros

  • The scanners let you save vast gigabits of videos and photos
  • Comes with a TV-port and a USB-port
  • Is practically weightless and has dimensions that enable easy set up
  • Comes with various cartridges that ensure optimum scanning of the file

Cons

  • The instruction manual might not have all the necessary information

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5. Epson Perfection V550 Scanner

Do you desire perfection in your work? If you do, then Epson’s V550 is the ideal for you and your likings. With this masterpiece, you can scan negatives and old photos with ease. Also, due to its state-of-the-art technology, you can even restore faded or damaged pictures to when they were no longer damaged.

By the way, apart from scanning multiple photos and films, the unit has several other noteworthy and marvelous features. One of them is its improved efficiency. The high-tech system used in the device can scan, process the data, and provide you top-notch, high-resolution pictures in unbelievable time.

Plus, you can use the unit to scan multiple photos! But the thing that makes this item stand out the most is its outstanding picture quality. After scanning, you will notice that each of the pictures are of high-quality, and the colors of each of them are quite vibrant. So, if you’re in a hurry to print out those envelopes, than place your trust on this scanner for the input.

Moreover, each of the scanned files offers a high resolution. And you can amplify the picture size to up to 17×22-inches. Furthermore, it comes with 35mm slides that let you smoothly scan films of most sizes. And each of the scanned pictures can be viewed at an artificial color (48-bits).

Wait right there, don’t think that this product is only suitable for home use. The device is installed with an ABBY FineReader OCR, which gives it the ability to scan documents and save them in an editable format. Besides, due to its convenient dimensions, setting it up in your home or office is quite simple.

Pros

  • Provides sharp and vibrant pictures from every scan
  • You can place it anywhere in your home
  • Can save files as images and editable word documents
  • Encourages you to use the devices for the home as well as office purpose

Cons

  • Specific software issues make it challenging to use

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6. Jumbl 22MP All-In-1 Film & Slide Scanner

Are you looking for a high-quality scanner that can scan films like 110, 126, and super 8 films? Well, this is it! The Jumbl-22MP all-in-1 scanner is going to provide you all the necessary components and perks that you would need to enjoy a very satisfactory scanning experience. And when you combine this with the best compact printers, the performance truly shines!

And the unit uses a continuous sliding process, where a mechanism pulls the film from one end and lets it out from the other. As a result, you get an optimum and efficient scanning process without any interruption.

Plus, using the device is straightforward. All the keys are placed in a convenient position, enabling you to use them with ease. The equipment is practically weightless and has compact dimensions, which allows you to set the device anywhere in your home quickly.

Moreover, the device comes with a high-quality screen. Due to the screen, you can view the scanned pictures on it with picture-perfect quality. If you don’t want to enjoy your old memories on a small screen, the product comes with a TV port, which lets you connect it to your TV and enjoy it with your family. 

After you are done scanning, you can easily store all the scanned files in your computer or laptop via USB port. Moreover, cleaning the product is like a breeze. It comes with adequate cleaning brushes that enable you to clean the machine without any issue comfortably.

Last but not least, all the products are provided on the day of purchase so that you don’t have to purchase anything separately.

Pros

  • All the necessary accessories are provided on the day of purchase
  • You can scan all types of film negatives using the device
  • Due to its compact ergonomics, stationing it in your home is a breeze
  • Easy-to-use and grants several fantastic functionalities

Cons

  • The product is not capable of scanning documents

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7. Digitnow Film Scanner

Finding a fantastic scanner that guarantees you all the necessary attributes is like finding a needle in a haystack! However, Digitnow’s film scanner makes the impossible quite simple.

The device has various functionalities; one of them is the SD-card slot. Due to the slot, you can store all the pictures that you have scanned in the scanner. So, the need for a laptop or computer to store the data diminishes here. But you can save it on your laptop or computer via the USB port system of the device.

Besides, the scanner is made in such a manner that it supports the uncomplicated operation. All the control keys are situated at a convenient spot and offer a single touch system to scan all the films. Plus, the LCD view of the item features you to spot all the scanned files with relative ease.

And the good doesn’t end here; the scanner gives out the performance you have been dreaming of. It offers its users admirable resolution and clarity that you would be pleasantly surprised with. Pairing it up with a monochrome photo printer, the result that we got was simply astounding.

Furthermore, the device is lightweight and convenient ergonomics, which will help you in the installation bit of it. Another useful feature of this is that it follows a continuous loading process, which enables you to get your job proficiently. 

Moreover, the biggest surprise for you is that you can buy this at the most reasonable price. Steal deal, isn’t it?

Pros

  • Guarantees straight forward and uncomplicated operations
  • Compact dimensions
  • Assures continuous loading of films and allows you to scan a film quickly
  • Comes with various ports which is compatible with other smart devices

Cons

  • The unit is incapable of scanning documents

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8. Kodak Mobile Scanner

Wouldn’t it be nice if you could scan and directly transfer all the data to your phone without the help of laptops or computers? Well, this device from Kodak will make your dream come true. And it might sound complicated, but we can confidently tell you that even a child can do this with a little bit of practice.

To get the item to operate, the first thing that you need to do is download the app for it, which is available in both the “App Store” and “Google Play”. Once you are done downloading the app, all the scanned data will be presented on your phone and will get stored once you connect the thing with the app.

A great feature of this app is that you can edit and bring changes to the scanned photos from your smartphone! Also, it is installed with a backlight, which lights up during the scanning process, and thus, let’s you see if you are scanning the correct film or photograph.

Unlike all the other scanners, you don’t have to worry about the power of the scanner. It doesn’t require bulky batteries, or you don’t have to connect it to a power supply. Just attach two AA batteries, and the product is ready to go!

Besides, due to its compact dimensions, setting it up in your home is going to be a less stressful task. When you are not using the product, you can stash at any corner of your home. In short, we can say that the product is one of the best, if not the very best scanner for medium format film that is available in stores.

Pros

  • No need to connect it to your laptop or desktop to transfer all the data
  • The device operates on double AA batteries
  • Compact and weightless
  • Offers smooth operation

Cons

  • The device is not quite fast in scanning
  • Not a good choice for official work

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9. Wolverine Titan 8-in-1 Scanner

Yes, you read that right, this one is an 8-in-1 marvel! Meaning, you can use the machine for eight different types of functionalities. We assure you that the results you will be having from using this device will get you hooked to it! However, having so much to offer does make the device a tad bit expensive.

The scanner can accommodate several types of negatives. So, you can enjoy all of your old memories with no issues at all. By the way, you can scan slides, old movies, and even black and white films as well with this thing. The best part is that it only requires three seconds to do it. So, there is no need to wait!

Furthermore, the scanner comes with marvelous and compact ergonomics, which enable you to position the device anywhere in your vicinity. Apart from these, the tool consents the continuous loading of slides, films, etc. This way, you can get the job done in a flick of your fingers.

Unlike conventional portable film scanners, the screen on this one is quite sizeable. It has a 4.3-inch color screen, so you can view the work in excellent quality. Now, if you have friends or family at home, and want to show them the old memories, connect the HDMI cable to your TV and have a good time.

With this, you do not need a laptop or computer to store the scanned data. It has an SD-card slot, which allows you to insert a card and save all the data on the card!

Pros

  • Comes with a lighting and high-performance HDMI cable to connect to TV
  • No need to connect it to your laptop or compute
  • rOffers uncomplicated and simple operation and stationing
  • Can scan several types of films with ease

Cons

  • The product is quite costly

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What to Look for before Buying

Buying the best scanner for medium format film is no rocket science as long as you know what you are looking for. But the whole story is completely different if you don’t know much about the scanner in general. So, if you want to refresh your memory or know what you need, this section is for you!

Type of Scanner

Generally, there are different types of scanners, ranging from multi-page scanners to wand scanners, and each of them has different uses. So, the first thing that you need to keep in mind is the purpose of the scanner. If you need a scanner for official purposes, then a flat-bed or a document-handler will be a good option. Though, for your office, the document handler is the best.

However, if you are looking for something for your home and to just digitally save all your old memories, then going for a more compact scanner might be a better option.

Efficiency

The faster the scanner does its work, the better the performance. And hence, it permits you to finish your work in a much smaller time frame. Are you wondering how you will know that? Well, it is quite a simple task. All you have to do is count the number of pages the scanner is capable of scanning per minute.

Now, going to a store and jumping from scanner to scanner might not seem really nice. However, this information should be on the box of the scanner, and if it doesn’t, the salesmen surely have an idea about it. So, just ask for his help.

Dual-Sided Scanner

Now, when you are looking for the best scanner for medium format film, checking whether it can scan both sides or not is quite important. If it is a one-sided scanner, then it means that that you would have to scan both the front and the back individually.

And if you go for a dual-sided scanner, then you would just scan it once, and the back and the front will be scanned simultaneously. Hence, we recommend that you go for a scanner that scans both sides as that is more efficient and prevents the chances of mistakenly scanning only one side.

Paper Size

Another thing that you need to take into account before buying a scanner is paper size. Imagine you bought a scanner, and it can’t hold the required paper size. Not only will it be a waste of money and time, but you would have to go through the entire process all over again.

The best way to avoid such a mishap is by choosing a scanner that can effortlessly accommodate all sizes of paper. Therefore, go for the larger size (11×17-inches) or higher. That way, there is never going to be a chance that the scanner won’t work on specific types of paper.

Resolution

Just like buying a scanner that is incapable of holding the adequate size is a waste of money, similarly, if the scanner is not able to produce the proper size, then it is also garbage. So, opting for a scanner that provides high resolution is quite imperative.

It might even be the most important aspect that you need to check while buying a scanner.

Nevertheless, the required amount of resolution depends entirely on the type of work you are doing. But we suggest that the scanner should be able to provide you with at least 600dpi. You can go higher if needed.

Connectivity and Software

Buying a scanner that has an efficient and excellent connectivity is going to make your life much easier. For instance, what do you think is better; a scanner that is compatible with your Mac or something that is almost compatible with all types of smart units?

We are quite sure that you picked something that is compatible with all types of devices. Also, there are some scanners, which can be connected to your TV so that you can relive these old memories when your family comes over for the holidays.

After you are sure that you have the connectivity that you would want from your scanner, it is time that you check whether the software is good or not. Well, there is no proper way for that. However, we suggest that you research this fact and find out which one suits you the most.

Price

After you are done with everything, it is time that you buy the product! As you check the price tag or as the salesman, you realize that it is quite expensive, but you still go off your budget and buy the product. That is not a nice thing to do!

We always suggest that you make a budget and stick to it religiously. From the scanner for medium format film reviews guide above, you can clearly see that you can get first-class machines that are more than capable of doing all types of scanning at a low price.

Longevity

Yes, it is true that scanners are generally made of plastic. However, that doesn’t mean that the scan has to be fragile. Scanners can be quite sturdy and long-lasting as long as your opting for the best ones.

Thus, when you are choosing a scanner, go for the branded ones as they have a reputation to save and will give you a scanner that will last for a long time.

Easy Setup

A bulky and big scanner might be quite difficult to set up in your office or home. So, our advice would be purchasing a scanner that has convenient dimensions. This feature will enable you to easily place in your home or office.

Plus, going for a portable scanner is a better idea as it makes setting it up much easier.

The Purpose

When buying a scanner, knowing the purpose of buying it is quite important. Do you need the scanner for faxing or saving photos and films or scanning documents? These are the questions that you need to keep in your head.

By the way, the safest solution would be going for a scanner that is sufficient enough to do all types of scanning, including scanning documents (into an editable format) and old negatives (into JEPG format).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here we have the most commonly asked queries regarding the best scanners:

1. Which is better, scanning or photographing it? 

Well, photographing might seem like a much more convenient and effortless method. But scanning an old film or picture is a much superior choice. When you would scan a picture, the difference in the quality of the scanned picture and a photographed image is quite visible.

2. Will a picture be completely restored via scanner?

Yes, it will! Some of the products listed above can reduce scratches, crease, tears, and much more. In short, they will provide you with a crystal-clear picture every time.

3. Is it a better option to store photos in PDF or JPEG?

If you want to store photos, then JPEG is obviously a much superior option. Using JPEG, the quality of the picture is not hampered. Plus, saving it in JPEG format enables you to edit without any effort. On the other hand, if you are planning to store some official documents, the PDF is a better option.

4. Are scanners costly?

Well, the answer depends on how much you are willing to spend. And if you are going for the high-end scanners, then it might be a tad expensive.

5. Is it necessary to check the resolutions? 

Of course, it is!

Conclusion

Looking back at old photos from your childhood can brighten up your day and fix your mood. We understand that these old memories are close to your heart, and you would never want to lose them.

Our scanner for medium format film reviews will be able to help you choose a proper product so that you can treasure these memories for life.

We assure you that each of these masterpieces offers optimum performance, efficiency, swift operation, and so much more. And we are quite confident that if you have any one of them, you will be delighted.

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