Even in this era of the digital camera, devices for scanning old photos and documents continue to improve, making it easier to turn printed material into digital images that you can enhance, resize, and share. These advances have come without a price hike, so you get more scanner for the money than you did a year ago. The models we recommend sell for $100 to $180.

For serious scanning, especially of film and slides, a separate scanner remains a better choice for most users than an all-in-one printer that includes a scanning function. (See our Ratings of all-in-one printers, available to subscribers.) Dedicated scanners typically have higher resolution than you’ll get on an all-in-one, plus other features that translate into better, easier scanning.

Most scanners are general-purpose flatbed models that can scan both prints and transparent originals – that is, film and slides. But some higher-priced models come with special features and more extensive software that allow greater control and flexibility when scanning film and slides. Our tests have shown that the best flatbed scanners are more than adequate for most user's needs. That’s no small accomplishment, reflecting improvements to the resolution that new scanners deliver and better accessories to hold film strips or slides securely for sharp, accurate scans.

Stores such as Costco and Wal-Mart will scan negatives and slides onto a disc for less than 30 cents per image. But you’ll give up the control you have doing it yourself. Also, the cost of scanning 15 rolls of 24-exposure negatives at Costco runs about $100, what you’d pay for a scanner.