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Top 8 Best Business Card Scanners To Buy In 2023 Review

Remember those little folders with the pages of sleeves for inserting business cards into? They were usually kept in a drawer, and you used to pull it out and flick through the pages so you could find someone’s contact details.

Well, now there is an easier way to consolidate all of those business cards. Keep them all in a digital format by scanning them onto your mobile device or PC.

So, we decided to take a look at the best business card scanners currently available and find the perfect one for you…

Top 8 Best Business Card Scanners To Buy In 2023 Review

Top 8 Best Business Card Scanners In 2023 Review

  1. Ambir ImageScan Pro – Best Citrix Certified Business Card Scanner
  2. Fujitsu ScanSnap iX100 – Best Document and Business Card Scanner
  3. Canon ImageFormula P-215II – Best Double-Sided Business Card Scanner
  4. Epson WorkForce ES-50 – Best Affordable Business Card Scanner
  5. PenPower WorldCard Pro – Best Text Recognition Business Card Scanner
  6. DocketPort 488 – Best Cross Compatible Business Card Scanner
  7. CardScan Executive V8 – Best Business Card Scanner and Contact Management System
  8. Canon DR-2580C – Best High Speed Business Card Scanner

1 Ambir ImageScan Pro – Best Citrix Certified Business Card Scanner

Our first product is this scanner from Ambir called the ImageScan Pro. It can be used to scan both business cards and ID cards. This thing can handle heavy workloads with ease thanks to its high-quality imaging hardware, wrapped in a durable shell.

Weighing just under 1 pound (450 grams) and measuring only 8 inches (20 centimeters) makes this scanner compact and convenient. Being about the size of a stapler, it can sit on a crowded desk, registration area, or cart without fuss.

Runs off a single cable…

No need to hunt about for a power supply, as the scanner can run directly via USB. Great for use in combination with a laptop or tablet at the entrance to businesses that require the capturing of ID.

A full scan can be completed in only three seconds, increasing your workflow and productivity. The scanner can handle any type of card, even membership cards with raised numbers such as credit cards.

Multiple software options…

Saving PDFs to your device can be done using the included AmbirScan Software. The files can be saved to any folder or even to cloud services such as DropBox, OneDrive, Evernote, or Google Drive.

With Citrix certification, you can be assured this product meets all Citrix standards. The scanner works seamlessly with both the Citrix XenApp and XenDesktop. Additionally, TWAIN drivers allow for compatibility with thousands of other software and hardware systems.


Ambir ImageScan Pro

Our rating:4.2 out of 5 stars (4.2 / 5)

Pros

  • No additional power supply required.
  • Small and light design.
  • Citrix certified.

Cons

  • Not compatible with Apple devices.
  • Cannot search fields once scanned.

2 Fujitsu ScanSnap iX100 – Best Document and Business Card Scanner

If you need to scan IDs and business cards but also require scanning full-page documents too, check out the ScanSnap iX100. Obviously, it is a bit bigger than a dedicated card scanner, but it does offer additional functions.

This scanner is still fully portable and can work entirely wirelessly, courtesy of its in-built rechargeable lithium-ion battery. It is possible to scan up to 260 pages from a single charge before needing to be plugged in.

Connect your way…

You can connect to your device using either direct USB or via a Wi-Fi network. If using the USB cable, this can also provide power to the scanner. For Wi-Fi connectivity, this allows for a completely wireless experience.

One of the advantages of using these larger devices is that they include OCR options (Optical Character Recognition). This means that once images are scanned, you can search for text fields or quickly copy and paste them into other documents.

Comprehensive software…

Bundled along with the iX100 is a comprehensive software package. This includes CardMinder, ScanSnap Cloud, SnapScan Organizer, and SnapScan Receipt. This makes scanning various different types of documents very easy.

For business card and ID scanning, we found a useful software feature. You can scan two small items and then combine them into one document. This is perfect, especially for 2-sided documents.


Fujitsu ScanSnap iX100

Our rating:4.2 out of 5 stars (4.2 / 5)

Pros

  • Completely wireless experience.
  • Can scan cards and full-sized documents.
  • Useful software package.

Cons

  • Larger than a dedicated card scanner.
  • Heavy to transport because of the battery.

3 Canon ImageFormula P-215II – Best Double-Sided Business Card Scanner

Next up in our best business card scanners review, we have another document scanner that also has a practical card scanning feature. Made by Canon, you can trust that the ImageFormula P-215II is made by a manufacturer with plenty of experience in saving and capturing images.

The scanner can be powered using USB 2.0 at a reduced speed. If you’d like to speed things up, you can add an optional AC adapter offering a power boost. That is unless your device has USB 3.0 ports, in which case you will receive full power directly.

Internal memory…

A brilliant little feature called CaptureOnTouch Lite saves data to the scanners onboard memory. By selecting a switch on the back, the device will see the scanner as a USB drive once connected to USB.

There is, of course, also a full software package included. Nuance PaperPort Professional 14 provides document management and OCR. On this occasion, we are more interested in the comprehensive NewSoft Presto! BizCard 6 for business card management.

Multiple cards at once…

One significant advantage of the ImageFormula P-215II is the fact that it can scan a stack of business cards. This is due to its in-built document feeder, where you can insert up to 20 pages or cards at once. It does struggle with thicker cards, so don’t try too many at once.

Not only is there an automatic document feeder, but you can also scan double-sided. This can speed up the scanning process considerably, especially with heavy workloads. With all these features, the extra bulk just might be worth it.


Canon ImageFormula P-215II

Our rating:4.1 out of 5 stars (4.1 / 5)

Pros

  • Built-in memory can save scans.
  • Automatic document feeder.
  • Double-sided scans.

Cons

  • No Wi-Fi connectivity.
  • Larger and heavier than a dedicated card scanner.

4 Epson WorkForce ES-50 – Best Affordable Business Card Scanner

You may have liked the idea of an automatic document feeder on the last scanner. Well, the Epson WorkForce ES-50 has that same feature. It can only feed 1 item at a time and can’t do double-sided scanning, but it is a cheaper option than the Canon.

You also have the option of The ES-60 for only a fraction more that offers Wi-Fi connectivity too. If you don’t mind having to plug in using USB for both power and communication, the ES-50 is fine and lighter again since it doesn’t need a battery.

Simple operation…

There is only one button on the scanner itself. That is the start/stop button for when you’re ready to scan. Everything else, such as resolution, file format, and so on, is taken care of with the included software.

Included are both the SmartScan, and Epson Scan 2 scanning software. Neither is complicated to use, and both offer useful features like OCR and document management. Nothing fancy, just simple, easy to navigate functions.

Handles cards with ease…

Over on the scanner’s far left side is where you can insert business cards, receipts, ID cards, or even credit cards. Thicker cards or even those with raised characters can still be fed through and read easily.

Unfortunately, there is no onboard memory or a memory card slot. This really is a bare-bones scanner; however, it performs what it is supposed to at a high standard. For a small, lightweight, easy to use scanner, this is a sure bet.


Epson WorkForce ES-50

Our rating:4.4 out of 5 stars (4.4 / 5)

Pros

  • Affordable scanning option.
  • Easy to use, uncomplicated software.
  • Scans thicker cards easily.

Cons

  • No memory card support.
  • Basic operations.

5 PenPower WorldCard Pro – Best Text Recognition Business Card Scanner

Now back to the dedicated business card scanners. Unlike the Ambir device, the PenPower WorldCard Pro uses text recognition software to import its scanned data. It will recognize email addresses, phone numbers, and other data.

Connecting the included USB cable provides both power and communication from your connected device. The scanner is small enough to be transported easily and can sit on even the most crowded of desktops.

Double-sided scanning…

Both sides of a card can conveniently be captured with only a single scan. Double-sided scanning is usually reserved for much more expensive devices. For this to be available in such an affordable product is certainly an advantage.

Image quality once a card has been scanned is fantastic. Not only is the text from cards clearly visible, but photos are also highly detailed. You can have these high-quality images at around ten cards per minute, which is an above-average speed.

Clever software…

Software for the scanner is included on a disc or can be downloaded from the PenPower website. Using the text recognition feature referred to earlier, this is where this product really comes into its own.

Once the machine scans a card, you have the option to open a separate screen and link all the information to a contact list. It will even incorporate Google Maps, so you can immediately locate the person or business.


PenPower WorldCard Pro

Our rating:4 out of 5 stars (4 / 5)

Pros

  • Affordable dedicated card scanner.
  • Double-sided scanning.
  • Included software automatically links contacts.

Cons

  • Interface feels outdated.
  • Some larger cards won’t fit in the feeder.

6 DocketPort 488 – Best Cross Compatible Business Card Scanner

Some of the other scanners reviewed have been document scanners that can scan cards. The DocketPort 488 is a card scanner that can scan documents. It is both lightweight and compact, making it easy to transport.

The scanner is directly powered by USB, meaning that you don’t need to carry an AC adapter. You also don’t need to go looking around for an additional power source either, making this product very convenient.

Achieve results quickly…

Scanning either cards or documents with the DocketPort 488 can be achieved quickly and easily. A single button on the scanner’s right side provides one-touch scanning. Perfect for use at a reception desk when multitasking is required.

It is also possible to complete double-sided scans with professional-grade imaging hardware. This saves having to feed the same document through the scanner multiple times, increasing workflow and efficiency.

Ultimate compatibility…

With the use of TWAIN drivers, the scanner is compatible with thousands of hardware systems and software applications. That means that you are not locked into using a particular program for completing your scanning needs.

Built using hard, durable plastics for the body, the scanner can take on heavy workloads consistently. If you need a reliable device for use in an office or at a point of sale, this scanner will keep you going for a long time.


DocketPort 488

Our rating:4.4 out of 5 stars (4.4 / 5)

Pros

  • Powered directly through USB.
  • Double-sided scanning.
  • Compatible with various hardware and software.

Cons

  • Bulky design.
  • No dedicated software.

7 CardScan Executive V8 – Best Business Card Scanner and Contact Management System

For another dedicated card scanner, we have the CardScan Executive V8. This product is described as a business card scanner and contact management system. Contact management is down to the software.

This device is effortless to use. Simply place a business card face up on the scanner and wait for it to be pulled through. Press process, then seconds later, all the details are on your screen for you to check and verify.

It goes where you go…

Because of its lighter weight and very compact size, you can bring this scanner with you wherever you go. It can fit into most laptop bags and doesn’t require an additional power source. Power is supplied directly via USB.

Scanning a card can be done in only three seconds, meaning it won’t take long to convert your current contacts to digital. And once you have this device with you, it will be quicker to scan a card than to manually enter the details yourself.

CardScan software…

The included software uses OCR to convert scanned text into organized, editable fields. You can then drag and drop contact details into various programs across your device. This works much better with Windows PCs as Mac compatibility is limited.

The software can even do the same for any emails you receive, ensuring your address book is always up to date. We found the text recognition to be generally accurate; however, they can easily be edited if mistakes do occur.


CardScan Executive V8

Our rating:4 out of 5 stars (4 / 5)

Pros

  • Easy to use.
  • Small and light.
  • Useful and accurate OCR software.

Cons

  • Only single-sided scanning.
  • Software now looks outdated.

8 Canon DR-2580C – Best High Speed Business Card Scanner

For those that have huge workloads and require something with tremendous speed, look no further. The Canon DR-2580C can scan cards or documents at a blistering pace of 86 pages per minute.

This all depends on things like resolution settings and if you choose color or black and white. But even at the highest detailed color settings, this thing is a beast. It can make short work of high stacks of documents in no time.

This model means business…

While most of the other products have been portable, this scanner is more of an office tool. It requires both USB and AC power to operate, unlike the other USB direct powered counterparts.

Of course, you get features like an automatic document feeder, which is a necessity to be able to scan at those speeds. Double-sided scanning is also possible, making even shorter work of those admin tasks.

Heavy-duty software…

Using a combination of ISIS and TWAIN drivers, the scanner will work with basically any program you throw at it. Canon recommends CapturePerfect 3.0 and Adobe Acrobat, both of which are compatible with OCR.

VRS (Virtual ReScan) is also highly recommended for use with this scanner. It can make ordinarily difficult to scan items, such as highlighted text, much more manageable. This could be overkill for only scanning cards, though.


Canon DR-2580C

Our rating:4 out of 5 stars (4 / 5)

Pros

  • Superfast scanning.
  • Double-sided scanning.
  • Automatic document feeder.

Cons

  • Both USB and AC power required.
  • Overkill for basic card scanning.

Best Business Card Scanners Buying Guide

Epson WorkForce ES-50 Portable Sheet-Fed Document Scanner for PC and Mac

As we have just shown you, there are many different ways to turn your physical card collection into a digital format. There really is a model for everyone, with a wide range of various features and capabilities.

We have created this buying guide to help you find out which of these products will best suit your needs. We will help identify what essential things to consider before making that final decision.

Portability

If you need something that you can bring along with you, then you will most likely prefer a dedicated card scanner. They are much smaller, lighter, and can often easily fit in your existing laptop bag.

That is unless you want the truly wireless ability of the Fujitsu ScanSnap iX100. With its rechargeable battery and Wi-Fi connectivity, it certainly is portable, even if a little bigger and heavier. Plus, you get the option of scanning documents too.

Contact management

Would you prefer to keep a copy of the cards themselves, or are you only after the data contained on them? If you only need the scan itself, any of these products are more than capable of completing that task.

However, if you would like to correlate the data, that requires something a little more. Something like the PenPower WorldCard Pro that can immediately link the data to a digital address book. Or any scanner with OCR support can assist with editing the data after scanning.

If you’re still unsure as to which scanner is for you, maybe our next section can help. Take a look as we reveal our decision on what we think is the best business card scanner of all and why. But before that, do you…

Love Digitizing?

Canon ImageFORMULA P-215II Mobile Document Scanner

If so, please check out a few other informative reviews while you’re here, like our Best Photo Scanner with Feeder Review, our Best Scanner for Artwork Review, our Best Portable Scanners Reviews, and our Best Document Scanners Review!

You might also enjoy our Best Sticker Maker Machine Review, our Best All in One Printers Review, our Best Desk Fans Review, our Best Universal Laptop AC Chargers Review, or our Best Laptop Trays and Tables for Beds Revews for 2023?

Back to the best scanners for business cards…

So, What Are The Best Business Card Scanners?

For us to decide on which product is the best, it must meet the following expectations. The scanner must be easy to use, provide quality scans, have useful features, and represent excellent value.

The one we decided meets all these expectations the best is the…

Epson WorkForce ES-50

Both the scanner and the included software are simple to use, providing great scans of both cards and documents. Features such as OCR work efficiently, and the machine feels well made. This is a great value product with plenty of potential.

Happy scanning!

About Paul S. Brunet

Known as the "Tech Lover", Paul is an expert of current and trending technology. Here at TinyGrab, he makes "tech" easy to understand for the average person.

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