Welcome to SlideScannerReviews.org; your one stop resource for slide scanner reviews, ratings and buying guides. Let's face it; as technology marches on, the old ways of doing things get left behind in the dust. This is especially true now that we've entered the digital age where all kinds of information can be converted into digital format. In the photographic industry, digital technology has revolutionized not only how pictures are taken, but also how they are stored and viewed.
If you have boxes of old slides sitting in a closet, you're a prime target for the digital revolution. You may still have a functioning slide projector, but the reality is you may not be able to get it repaired when it eventually stops working. When that day comes, you probably won't be able to buy a replacement either. Now is the time to start looking at slide scanners to convert your old slides into permanent digital images.
Dedicated vs. General Scanners
When general-use digital scanners first came to market their quality was such that they were not good for scanning slides. Resolutions were too low, color saturation wasn't very good, and the ability to manipulate the scanned images was limited. Back then, if you wanted to convert slides into digital images you had to invest large amounts of money in a scanner specifically designed just for slides.
Thankfully, as technology has advanced it's quite common to see general-use scanners today that can properly handle slides. You still need to pay attention to specs when buying a scanner, but you no longer have to spend a huge amount of money. For around $100 you can get an entry-level scanner that will do an adequate job for the average consumer. For $300-$500 you can purchase a professional grade scanner that will actually make your slides look better.
Things to Look for in a Slide Scanner
There are two important factors to consider when purchasing a slide scanner; the first being resolution. Perhaps you've seen the abbreviation "DPI" in advertisements for electronic devices. DPI stands for “dots per inch”; a measurement of resolution. The higher the resolution, the more clear, clean, and vibrant an image appears.
Although you could get away with a resolution less than 4800 DPI, it's probably not a good idea if you want to retain the integrity of your slides. Besides, a 4800 DPI scanner can be had for as little as $100 anyway. The few extra dollars you'd save with a lower resolution is not worth the drop off in quality.
The other important thing to look for is the kind of media the scanner will accept. Some slide scanners will accept slides, 35mm negatives, and many other formats. If you only need one that will accept your slides and nothing else, you may not have to pay extra for a scanner that accepts everything else.
Software and Other Extras
Just about every slide scanner comes with the software package that will allow you to manipulate your digital images. The scope and quality of the software is probably a non-issue for most people. If you don't like the program that's included you can always use your own; if the included software is something you like, that's a bonus.
Some scanners have built-in image correction which will allow you to manipulate your images on the fly. Other models have built-in screens and software which make it possible to scan your slides and manipulate the images without being connected to a computer. Once all of your work is done you simply transfer it to a computer with a flash drive or network connection.
The point is there are so many slides scanners each with so many features, that you'll need to do some research to find the one that's best for you. But start searching right away and get those slides scanned before it's too late. If not, you may wake up one day to find your projector doesn't work anymore. Read our articles for reviews and useful tips of some the best slide scanners on the market.