VueScan

Buying a new scanner can be challenging especially for beginners. The main problem can be choosing a software for it. The one that came with your scanner can be difficult to master. VueScan can be a universal solution. It's compatible with most scanners and it's easy to use.

The only thing you need to wait for is downloading the application's setup file. There is no lengthy installation process to go through, so you only need to run the downloaded file, wait a few seconds and the program will launch all by itself.

VueScan offers a number of features other similar programs may have, others may not, but its user interface is more accessible. Every function is found on its own tab, where you can find drop menus full of parameters. Having so many menus won't slow you down. Their design is easy on the eye and you don't need to be a genius to figure out what all the options mean.

The interface is designed in such a way that you could go through it in logical and consecutive steps. First you need to access the "input" tab where you set the task to be performed: scan to a file or copy to a printer. You can also select a media type like an image, slide film, microfilm and others. The second tab, should you need it, contains a crop tool. You can't crop by clicking and dragging over an image, but you can select from a wide variety of sizes or you can do this via sliders. Another tab lets you add filters for restoring colors, fading and sharpening. Next is the "color" tab, where you can set the white balance and brightness. Finally, click the "output" tab where you can make your final settings like the destination folder or formats like TIFF, JPEG or PDF.

Your work can be previewed on the right side of the window. Just click the designated button on the lower part of the window. Also, you can find the actual "scan" button and, an interesting feature, a guide button which will enable a wizard. This will take you step by step, explaining every thing you need to do on the way. There's nothing to it. Although the top menus contain a few extra options, everything you really need can be found directly on the main window.

Pro:
There's quite a number of things VueScan can do and it's all done without needing to break a sweat. The way everything is organized makes it easy for any user.

Con:
There's nothing to really complain about with this software.

You can scan your pictures, and more, in a few easy and logical steps without even concerning yourself if it will recognize your scanner. VueScan is compatible with over 1850 scanners.