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Step 1
Choose the best flatbed scanner resolution for your office needs. The resolution is the number of pixels that the scanner can copy. The higher the resolution, the better the quality of the final scanned image and the more detail the scanner can catch. The resolution is often noted on the scanner as dots per inch (DPI). Individuals who only plan to scan paperwork, forms and other simple items only need 400 to 600 DPI. Photographers and those reproducing high-quality photographs will want more, ranging from 600 to 1,200 DPI.
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Step 2
Select the best bit depth for your scanning needs. Bit depth refers to the level of detail and quality that the flatbed scanner can capture for each pixel. The bit depth affects the sharpness and quality of the scanner's image colors. A 24-bit flatbed scanner is best for those who don't plan on creating full-color posters and large scans, and is best for most everyday purposes. Flatbed scanners with a depth of 30- to 36-bits can reproduce images in richer colors.
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Step 3
Determine how much dynamic range you want in your scanned images. Dynamic range governs how the scanner captures subtle tones and the possibilities range from zero to four. The higher the dynamic range, the better. Most budget flatbed scanners have a dynamic range of 2.5.
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Step 4
Identify the flatbed scanner's speed. The speed of the scanner refers to how long it takes for the device to capture the image of an item. This characteristic is not as critical as those identified in Steps 1 to 3 unless you are in an office environment in which you plan to scan large volumes of paperwork.
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Step 5
Choose the best scanner that meets the criteria outlined. Consult a representative at your local computer hardware store, or inspect scanners online on websites such as Amazon.
