Color scanner technology has continued to improve over the last decade, as computing power has increased. And, like personal computers, scanner prices have fallen dramatically, especially over the few years. Scanners now include dozens of new features designed to ensure the highest quality scans, improved color quality, and ease of use.

Color scanners are available for both home (personal) and business use. Personal scanners typically focus on ease of use and are sized to be able to copy standard letter-sized paper or smaller, including digital photos, pages from magazines and more. Combined with a printer (sometimes integrated), they allow your PC to even act as a photocopier.

In contrast, business scanners typically feature enhanced features sets to improve resolution, and often come in large formats, allowing the scanning of larger, business-sized documents, posters, and other articles.