The best film scanners can take your film into the digital realm. Whether you've got an attic full of old negatives, or you're taking new photos with one of the best film cameras, a film scanner will quickly become the easiest way for sharing your shots online.
So what is the best scanner right now? For 35mm, I think it's the OpticFilm 8100 SE from the film scanning pros at Plustek; it extracts phenomenal levels of detail from your film, is backed up by excellent scanning software, and is sensibly priced. If you're after something that'll scan larger film, then Epson's Perfection V600 Photo flatbed scanner is a great choice.
In this guide, I'll look at the main types of scanners: dedicated film scanners, specialist flatbed scanners, and tools for imaging your film slides, as well as scanners for different film formats. Scanning is often a trade-off between getting through rolls of negatives very quickly, or taking longer but rewarding you with a higher-quality image. I will try to help you pick the right option for your needs, so let's dive in.
Gareth Bevan
Gareth is the Reviews Editor at Digital Camera World, and the person in charge of approving all the latest camera-related tech. A passionate film photographer and perfectionist, he scans all his own films in search of that immaculate quality. Always on the lookout for cleaner and faster scanning, he has thoroughly tested out all of the scanners in this guide.
The OpticFilm 8200i SE could be mistaken for its baby 8100 sibling, however here you get a max 7200dpi scanning resolution and infrared dust removal. If you only shoot 35mm film, this is the best scan quality you can get.
This scanner cuts out a few things from its more expensive Plustek siblings like infrared scanning for dust removal, but this makes it a much more wallet-friendly option that still gives the best scan quality for 35mm film.
The V600 is designed to cater to film photographers who shoot multiple sizes and includes holders for 35mm film, 35mm slides, and 120/220 medium format film. Quality is exceptional and even challenges the much pricier V850 Pro below.
A huge monolith of a scanner, but this is the ultimate flatbed scanner for professionals who want to scan large film formats. The V850 Pro offers speed and some of the best quality you will find in any film scanner.
This scanner offers a fully automated scanning process that takes the effort out of scanning 35mm frames or mounted slides. Its only downside is the software is not as advanced as other Plustek models.
Simple to use, no computer required, and won't break the bank. If you want to digitize your Super8 film, then your choices are limited, but thankfully the Kodak Reels does a decent job at preserving precious memories.
Digital scanning methods like the Kodak Scanza might not be the best you can get in image quality, but if you just want to secure some memories without spending a lot of time and money then it's a great option.
This is the easiest scanner on this list to use, with a big easy-to-see screen and lots of quick manual controls on the scanner base. But as another digital scanner, the quality can't compete with proper scanners.
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Supported film types: 35mm color and mono negatives; 35mm slide positives
Dimensions: 120 x 272 x 119mm
Reasons to buy
+
Class-leading scanning quality
+
Easy to use
+
Automatically removes dust & scratches
Reasons to avoid
-
Pricier than OpticFilm 8100
-
Slow at max scanning res
Buy it if:
✅ You only scan 35mm film: the 8200i SE is only capable of scanning 35mm film in strips of 6 or less or mounted slides.
✅ You value quality over speed: scanning is slow, and there is no automation, which makes the 8200i SE labor-intensive, but the quality pays off.
Don't buy it if:
❌ You want to scan a lot of film: the 8200i SE is laborious to use, the Epson or Kodaks below are faster automated ways to scan huge collections of 35mm film. ❌ You don't value image top quality: if you just want to save some memories, but don't care about perfect quality, there are faster and cheaper scanners (see Kodaks below).
We picked the OpticFilm 8200i SE as our top choice as it strikes the perfect balance between image quality, ease of use, and price.
Apart from its black rather than blue finish, the OpticFilm 8200i SE could be mistaken for its baby 8100 sibling. It's almost identical on this inside too, but that's no bad thing, as that means you're assured top-notch scanning quality, providing you're prepared to wait a while when using max 7200dpi scanning resolution.
There's really only one key feature that separates the 8200i SE from the 8100, and that's its dedicated infra-red scanning channel. Combined with the iSRD feature in the bundled SilverFast scanning software, any dust and scratches on your negs are automatically detected and then removed from the digital scan - clever stuff.
The downside? In some places, the 8200i SE can cost quite a bit more than the 8100, making it rather less of a bargain. But if you regularly scan multiple negs that are likely to need dust and scratch removal, then the 8200i SE could be a real time-saver and worth the premium. The price difference between the two scanners is smaller in the US, making the extra convenience of the 8200i SE very tempting.
There is also a Plustek OpticFilm 8200i Ai available (see below), a flagship model that adds color calibration software into the package - useful for color transparency scanning, albeit at a higher cost.
Supported film types: 35mm color and mono negatives; 35mm slide positives
Dimensions: 120 x 272 x 119mm
Reasons to buy
+
Unrivalled scanning quality
+
Superb software
+
Reasonably priced
Reasons to avoid
-
Slow at max resolution
-
Not the best at shadow detail
-
No auto dust/scratch removal
Buy it if:
✅ You want the best scans on a budget: it might not have infrared, but the quality from the 8100 is the best you will get for the price.
✅ You want a small scanner to store: the 8200i is a fraction of the size of the flatbed scanners and its shape makes it easy to store when not in use.
Don't buy it if:
❌ You want to scan big collections of film: there is a lot of manual work to scan a roll of film with the 8100, flatbed or digital scanner like those below can take some of the work out. ❌ You want to scan multiple formats: the 8100 only scans 35mm and mounted slides, if you use other film types, check out the Epson flatbed scanners.
This is the baby of the OpticFilm range, yet it still boasts a respectable 7,200dpi maximum scanning resolution. It sits below the OpticFilm 8200i SE (above) in price but misses out on the infrared scanner of its big brother.
The OpticFilm 8100 also has a real optical film scanner and not just a digital camera sensor in a scanner body. This does however mean the 8100 is no speed demon. Each 35mm film frame takes nearly 4 minutes to scan at max res, but 3,600 dpi is more than adequate for most film stocks and you’ll have a scanned frame in 1 minute 20 seconds.
Though the front panel has a QuickScan button that automatically scans and saves a frame to your computer desktop, it’s best to load up the bundled SilverFast software that provides comprehensive scanning options and pre-scan image enhancement.
Even without messing with the settings, and scanning at 3,600 dpi, the 8100 is in a league of its own for scan quality, extracting bags of detail from our 35mm negs and transparencies. It also lets you scan the entire film frame with no overzealous cropping. The 8100 can struggle to reveal every detail in the shadow areas of high-contrast 35mm slide positives, but this is our only nitpick.
Supported film types: 35mm color and mono negatives; 35mm slide positives; 120/220 medium format
Dimensions: 280 x 485 x 118 mm
Reasons to buy
+
Good film scan quality
+
Automatic multi-frame scanning
+
Support for medium format film
Reasons to avoid
-
Plustek 8100 resolves more detail
Buy it if:
✅ You want automated scanning: the V600 can scan multiple frames automatically, with software that will even chop them up into separate files.
✅ You want to scan multiple formats: you can scan 35mm, mounted slides, and 120/220 film using the V600 (not to mention photos and documents).
Don't buy it if:
❌ You don't have a lot of space: this is a big heavy flatbed scanner that is going to take up some serious desk space. ❌ You want the best image quality (35mm): in my tests, the 8100/8200i SE resolved more detail in scans, not by much, but enough to win the quality crown.
Flatbed scanners are traditionally thought of as a more versatile but less finessed alternative to a dedicated film scanner. However, the V600 is impressively designed to cater to film photographers. Naturally, it can scan photos and documents, but it includes holders for 35mm film, 35mm slides, and 120/220 medium format film.
Scanning resolution can go as high as a whopping 12,800 dpi, but we found a 3,200 dpi is more than enough for our film stocks, producing a digitized image equivalent to around 12.2MP.
You might imagine that laying out up to a dozen 35mm film frames over the flatbed would result in fast scanning, but the V600 Photo still scans each frame individually – albeit automatically – and takes around one minute per frame at 3,200 dpi. Saving you manual work, but unfortunately not time! Scanning with Digital ICE automatic dust and scratch removal enabled only adds around 20 seconds per frame.
Compared to the other scanners on this, the V600 can’t match the top-ranking Opticfilm 8100’s ability to extract every speck of detail.
Supported film types: 35mm colour and mono negatives; 35mm slide positives; 120/220 medium format; 5 x 4 inch; up to 8 x 10 inch
Dimensions: 308 x 503 x 152 mm
Reasons to buy
+
Detailed film scans
+
Packed with features
+
Two sets of quality film holders
Reasons to avoid
-
Eye-watering price tag
Buy it if:
✅ You need the best quality for large formats: the V850 can scan pretty much anything, but for large format film with pro results, it is the best.
✅ You want some automation: you can set the V850 up to scan multiple frames consecutively while you get on with other work.
Don't buy it if:
❌ Your space is tight: the V850 is an enormous scanner, and it will dominate your desk, it is also too heavy to move frequently. ❌ You care about quality but also value: both the Epson V600 and Plustek achieve similar quality scans for a much lower price point.
Positioned at the pinnacle of Epson’s scanner range, the V850 Pro is aimed squarely at film professionals in need of the best possible conversion to digital images, and with the money to splash on a pretty expensive bit of kit.
The Epson V850 Pro has the benefits of tackling multiple formats of film in one device, however, if you only shoot 35mm film, then I would say that the Plustek 8200i SE at the top of this guide gives equally if not more impressive results for around half the price.
The V850 does come with two sets of film holders - a 35mm film strip and a 35mm slide holder, both of which feel better quality than those included with the V600 Photo.
In general though, image quality from the V850 is fantastic, and the best home flatbed scanner I have used yet for scanning larger formats of film. I was impressed by this scanner's dedicated lens for film and max optical resolution of 6400 dpi. But it still wasn't night and day versus the considerably cheaper Epson V600, and unless you really want to pixel peep, I think for most people the V600 is much better value.
Supported film types: 35mm color and mono negatives; 35mm slide positives
Dimensions: 175 mm x 259.2 mm x 104.3 mm
Reasons to buy
+
High-quality 7200dpi scans
+
Infrared dust and scratch removal
+
Automated scanning
+
Excellent film holders
Reasons to avoid
-
Lousy software
-
USB-A connection
-
Sound can get irritating
Buy it if:
✅ You don't mind buying extra software: this scanner has so much potential that can only be released with an additional purchase of Silverfast or VueScan.
✅ You want entertaining automation: watching the scanner push the holder in and out is amusing, but it also saves a lot of manual work.
Don't buy it if:
❌ You don't want to buy extra software: the included software is very poor, and I wouldn't recommend the 135i without an additional software purchase for Silverfast or VueScan. ❌ You hate noise: the automated slider is quite noisy, which won't suit any quiet environments.
The OpticFilm 135i from Plustek is a hard one to recommend wholeheartedly. The scanner packs amazing hardware, with high-resolution 7200 dpi quality, an infrared channel for identifying and automatically removing dust and scratches, as well as a fully automated film holder that can scan up to six 35mm frames or six mounted slides at the touch of a button.
Sounds amazing no? Well, the trouble is that the included software – Plustek QuickScan Plus is just a bit lousy. This is one of the only Plustek film scanners you can buy (and the only one on this list) that doesn't come with a copy of the superior SilverFast SE Plus in the box. QuickScan Plus' processing of images leaves a lot to be desired in terms of peak quality, with a lot more digital noise and inaccurate colors than is ideal.
Why is it on this list? Well, if speed over ultimate quality is your main concern then, the 135i with QuickScan will suffice. And if you already own a copy of SilverFast (or similar software – VueScan) or are willing to buy a license, then this is hands down one of the best hardware scanners you can buy for 35mm film.
Max optical resolution: 3.53 megapixels / 1080p video
Requires computer: No
Supported film types: Super 8 & Normal 8 cine film
Dimensions: 21.3 x 14.3 x 23.2 cm
Reasons to buy
+
Exposure and framing control
+
Internal recording
Reasons to avoid
-
No 4K
-
Can't add a soundtrack
Buy it if:
✅ You want an affordable way to digitize movies: there aren't many options for digitizing film reels at home, and certainly not as affordable as this.
✅ You want a simple system: this system is easy to use so you can get digitizing quickly.
Don't buy it if:
❌ You want to record in 4K: here you are limited to just 1080p video when 4K is desirable today. ❌ You want to add audio directly: there is no way to add an audio file directly to the digitized recording, both need to be stitched together on a computer.
Digitizing old reels of cine film used to be much more complicated, as you needed to find a working projector, as well as a video camera and a screen. But this ingenious device does it all in one – allowing you to convert your Super 8 and normal 8mm cine films into MP4 digital files.
Sold under the Kodak brand name, it converts film on 7in, 5in or 3in reels – and saves the output onto SD memory cards. There is a small 2.3in LCD so you can see the film before and during recording.
Scanning is done at two frames per second – so a 3-inch 50-foot reel will take about half an hour to digitize. Once recorded, the unit can playback the footage to your TV so everyone can see it on the big screen. Unfortunately, there is no support for audio, so if the film has a soundtrack this is not recorded.
✅ You want a cheap way to capture memories: this is one of the cheapest options to digitize and preserve old boxes of negatives.
✅ You want a standalone scanner: you don't need to hook this up to a PC or use any software, images can be recorded directly to and SD card.
Don't buy it if:
❌ You want good image quality: digital scanners like this don't have the best image quality, but they are quick and effective. ❌ You want to scan large format: there are lots of scanning options for popular film types, but nothing bigger than 35mm.
If you're part of the shoebox generation, chances are you've got a treasure trove of memories stored in the form of exposed negative film and transparencies, stashed away somewhere in the nooks of your home. These physical relics hold within them the essence of bygone days, capturing moments frozen in time, waiting to be revisited and shared.
Enter the compact and efficient film scanner, a modern-day bridge that effortlessly connects your nostalgic past to the digital present. This innovative device offers a convenient solution to breathe new life into those cherished memories, allowing you to easily convert them into digital formats. With minimal hassle and effort, it opens a portal for your old photos to seamlessly transition into the digital era, ready to be preserved and shared with a mere click.
Its user-friendly interface is a welcome feature, simplifying the otherwise daunting task of digitizing film. Yet, there's a delicate art to handling film that this scanner requires, making the process a bit tricky for some. And while it does a commendable job at transforming analog into digital, there's still room for enhancement in the realm of image quality.
✅ You want a simple-to-use scanner: the easiest scanner to use, the big screen, and physical buttons make digitizing simple.
✅ You don't want to use a computer: this scanner can be used on its own, with images recorded directly to an SD card, not complicated software needed!
Don't buy it if:
❌ You want the best image quality: digital scanners do not have image quality to rival proper scanners, with pretty mediocre quality here. ❌ You are looking for the cheapest option: not quite as easy to use, but the Kodak Scanza (above) is a cheaper option with about the same quality.
When compared to the Kodak Scanza Film Scanner, which sits at a slightly lower price point, this alternative option presents a few enhancements. One noticeable improvement is its generously sized screen, allowing for better previewing of scans and offering a more engaging experience when viewing images in Gallery mode or slideshows after the scanning process.
One striking divergence lies in the control panel. Here, it opts for a different layout, relying solely on pushbuttons, despite the larger LCD not supporting touch functionality. However, despite this limitation, operating this scanner remains straightforward and efficient.
In terms of performance, scanning with this device is notably swift. It efficiently processes scans, delivering results promptly. However, it's essential to note that while the speed impresses, the resulting image quality might not reach the heights of exceptional clarity or detail that some users may expect.
So how do you choose the best film scanner? It depends on both how many negatives you have, and what format they are in.
The most common film format is 35mm, this is the standard roll of 24 or 36 exposures that you usually find in drug stores or preloaded in disposable cameras. Other common types of film are mounted slides, which are negatives mounted within a white cardboard border, and medium format or 120 film, which is several times larger per frame than 35mm.
Flatbed scanners are the most useful for scanning multiple varieties of film types, as they have a large scanning surface, although because of that fact, are very large devices. If you only need to scan 35mm film, a dedicated scanner might be a much smaller and more convenient option, and typically offer higher resolutions and image quality from their more controlled and dedicated sensors.
If you are looking to scan large quantities of film then a flatbed scanner might be the choice for you, as they are capable of scanning multiple film frames automatically with minimal user input. Dedicated film scanners typically require a bit more manual interaction to move films through the scanning process and only scan one frame at a time.
Finally, where you will use the film determines what maximum scanning resolution you will need. Don’t be swayed by sky-high scanning resolutions. Unless you’re digitizing extremely slow film speed, 3,200 dpi will be more than enough for most applications. Film does not have the same resolving power as today's digital sensors, especially smaller formats.
(Image credit: Gareth Bevan / Digital Camera World)
What is the best software to scan film?
A lot of film scanners will come with some scanning software included, this might be first-party scanning software from the company that makes the scanner, or they might lean on third-party software which has the benefit of working on any supported scanner from multiple brands.
Scanner software can range in quality and functionality, with third-party software typically offering more control over your scans, but sometimes this choice can be overwhelming. First-party software is usually simpler to use and less daunting with options.
Two of the best choices for third-party scanning software are SilverFast by LaserSoft Imaging or VueScan from Hamrick. Silverfast is often bundled with more advanced scanners, it is very powerful although its dated interface isn't for everyone. Vuescan offers a cleaner interface and similar advanced features but must be bought as a separate purchase from the scanner.
What is camera scanning?
If you already have a mirrorless or DSLR digital camera and a high-quality 1:1 macro lens, then you can also "scan" your film using your camera, this is useful as you can scan any film format, and also very quickly.
However, this method takes a fair amount of careful setup, calibration, and technique, so is not for everyone, but with the right film scanning tools to flatten your film and a high CRI (color rendering index) backlight, you can get film "scans" that are indistinguishable to any of the best dedicated film scanning machines.
How we test film scanners
We test film scanners by scanning rolls of film that we have shot through each scanner, we test each scanner at a variety of resolutions and settings and compare the results.
In the resulting scans, we look for a variety of factors including image quality, focus accuracy, sharpness, color accuracy, and color vibrance/saturation to how we would expect each film to look based on our sample of professional lab scanned images and our prior extensive experience of working with film.
We also assess the build quality and ease of use of every scanner, as well as any software provided with the scanner for functionality and usability.
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Gareth is a photographer based in London, working as a freelance photographer and videographer for the past several years, having the privilege to shoot for some household names. With work focusing on fashion, portrait and lifestyle content creation, he has developed a range of skills covering everything from editorial shoots to social media videos. Outside of work, he has a personal passion for travel and nature photography, with a devotion to sustainability and environmental causes.
