Electronics & Computers Deals here!
CNET editors' buying advice
We have not reviewed this product but here is CNET's buying advice on Scanners. This content was chosen based on the features included with this model of scanner.
Transparency adapter
These scanners come with a transparency adapter, which is meant for scanning slides or film negatives. As both are quite small formats meant for enlarging up to a useful size, make sure that that the scanner has a high maximum resolution so that it can pick up fine details, and keep your pictures looking crisp at the larger size. However, for normal personal use, most scanners that come with this should be fine.
See more Transparency adapter products
Optical Resolution
The maximum optical resolution of a scanner is very important. Be careful of claims of 'interpolated' resolution--this is a software trick to try to generate a larger image from less data, but cannot really generate a clear image. Also, the real limit is the lower of the vertical or horizontal maximum resolution, anything past the lower of those two numbers is using interpolation.
The amount of resolution actually needed depends on the intended job. Scanning something purely for use on a computer screen at about the same size needs a mere 75 dpi, but this about the least demanding job possible. If you intend to print your scanned image, a minimum of about 300 dpi is needed for color (and 600 dpi for black-and-white).
The above assumes that the final image should be about the same size as the original. For enlargements, better resolution is needed so that the final image maintains the required dpi after the image is enlarged. For instance, to print a 4"x5" photo at the size of a full sheet (8"x10"), the 8"x10" image will need (300 x 10) 3000 pixels down the long side. That turns into (3000 / 5) 600 dpi for the original scan.
See more Optical Resolution products
CNET product brief
Description: The Visioneer OneTouch 9520 is a 4800dpi, general purpose color scanner.Compared to other general purpose scanners on the market, it is relatively expensive at around $185.
Pros: Has 9600 dpi vertical resolution, which is somewhat sharper than some similarly priced scanners.In fact, the typical cost of a product with this sharp a vertical resolution is $230.This device is also relatively light, weighing in at mere 5.7 lbs.
Cons: None noted, given available product data.
Suitability: For documents and pictures.This scanner can handle 8.5 in x 11.7 in documents.Flatbed scanners, such as this one are versatile, able to scan single sheets of text or graphics, pages from books, and make images of anything else placed on the glass.
Value: Despite its relatively expensive price, this scanner has great features for the money.However, if you were judge strictly by scanner resolution, you might pay up to 25% less for a comparable general purpose scanner.
Suggestions: To see some of our editors' favorite scanners, visit CNET Editors' Top Scanners
CNET's Product Briefs are generated by a software tool that combines product specifications with knowledge of our editorial experts. They do not reflect hands-on assessment or labs testing. For more information about how we create Product Briefs, contact us.
Where to buy
OneTouch 9520 USB Photo Scanner:
$59.99 - $202.99
| store | price | in stock? | rating |
|---|---|---|---|
|
$59.99 | Yes |
|
|
$59.99 | Yes |
|
|
$189.99 | Yes |
|
|
$132.66 | Yes |
|
|
Amazon.com Marketplace
|
$169.99 | Yes |
|
