Scanners are essential tools for turning physical documents into digital files. Whether you’re archiving receipts, digitizing client paperwork, or preserving family photos, a scanner streamlines the process and makes your files easier to organize, search, and store. Buying a refurbished scanner is one of the smartest ways to get high-quality hardware without paying full retail prices. These devices are typically returned or used units that have been professionally restored and tested, making them an affordable option for small businesses, remote workers, and home users.
But not all refurbished scanners are created equal. Factors like scan resolution, page-per-minute speed, duplexing ability, feeder capacity, and software compatibility can make a huge difference in performance. To help you make the best choice, we tested and ranked top refurbished scanners currently available. Whether you need portability, high-volume scanning, or photo-quality output, there’s something here for you.
Best Refurbished Scanners – Ranked
| Rank | Product | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Epson WorkForce ES-580W Refurbished Scanner | Check Price |
| 2 | Epson WorkForce ES-400 II Desktop Scanner | Check Price |
| 3 | Canon CanoScan Lide 300 | Check Price |
| 4 | Brother ADS-1300 Refurbished Desktop Scanner | Check Price |
| 5 | Canon R10 Portable Scanner | Check Price |
| 6 | Brother DS-740D Mobile Scanner | Check Price |
| 7 | Epson ES-50 Portable Scanner | Check Price |
| 8 | Fujitsu FI-6130 Refurbished Scanner | Check Price |
| 9 | Fujitsu fi-6130Z Refurbished Scanner | Check Price |
| 10 | Fujitsu ScanSnap S1500 Refurbished Scanner | Check Price |
| 11 | Fujitsu ScanSnap S1300 Mobile Scanner | Check Price |
| 12 | Fujitsu FI-6140 Refurbished Scanner | Check Price |
These rankings reflect not just specifications on paper but real-world testing for reliability, ease of use, and scan quality. Keep reading below for detailed reviews of each model, including pros, cons, and tips to help you find the right fit for your needs.
Best Refurbished Scanners
We’ve researched and tested numerous options to bring you this collection of top refurbished scanners. These models offer excellent value while maintaining reliable performance for digitizing documents, photos, and other important papers at a fraction of the cost of new units.
Fujitsu ScanSnap S1500 Refurbished Scanner
This refurbished ScanSnap S1500 offers reliable document scanning capabilities at a budget-friendly price despite some compatibility limitations with newer systems.
Pros
- Fast 20ppm color scanning speed saves time
- One-button searchable PDF creation simplifies workflow
- 50-page automatic document feeder handles large jobs
Cons
- Not compatible with Windows 11
- May show minor cosmetic blemishes
- Requires included CD for software installation
When we tested this refurbished Fujitsu ScanSnap, we were impressed by how quickly it processed our documents. The 20ppm scanning speed made short work of our paper backlog.
Setting up the scanner took just a few minutes, and the included USB cable and power adapter worked perfectly.
The scanner’s body showed a few minor scratches, which is expected for a refurbished unit. These small blemishes didn’t affect performance at all.
The 50-page document feeder handled our invoices, receipts, and letters without any paper jams during our testing period.
We particularly liked the one-button PDF creation feature. It made scanning and organizing documents much easier than expected.
One important note: this scanner won’t work with Windows 11, so make sure your computer runs an older Windows version. The included CD contains all necessary software and drivers, so keep it safe for future reinstallations.
Refurbished Fujitsu fi-6130Z Scanner
This refurbished Fujitsu scanner offers good speed and features for office document scanning, but the inconsistent quality control makes it a risky purchase for critical work environments.
Pros
- Fast scanning at 80 images per minute
- Handles embossed cards and specialty documents
- Intelligent multi-feed detection prevents missed pages
Cons
- Quality varies widely between units
- Some arrive with dirty components or worn parts
- Setup can be challenging for some users
We recently tested this renewed Fujitsu fi-6130Z scanner in our office. The scanning speed impressed us right away. At 80 images per minute with 300 dpi resolution, it handled our document backlog quickly.
Both color and grayscale documents came through clearly when the scanner was working properly.
The device includes some handy features that we appreciated during daily use. The ultrasonic double-feed detection caught several instances where papers stuck together, which would have caused missing pages in our archived files.
We also found the continuous card scanning feature helpful for processing ID cards and embossed membership cards.
Unfortunately, quality control seems to be an issue with these refurbished units. Our first test scanner had feeding problems right out of the box.
Some users report having to replace rollers or thoroughly clean their devices before use, which shouldn’t be necessary with properly refurbished equipment.
While the price point is attractive, we recommend being prepared for potential troubleshooting if you decide to purchase this scanner.
Epson WorkForce ES-400 II Desktop Scanner
The Epson WorkForce ES-400 II offers exceptional speed and versatility for anyone needing to quickly digitize large document volumes.
Pros
- Lightning-fast scanning at 35 pages per minute with duplex capability
- User-friendly software makes file management simple
- Excellent compatibility with cloud services and office systems
Cons
- Occasional paper jams with certain document types
- Bulky compared to portable scanners
- Software installation can be confusing for beginners
We recently tested the Epson WorkForce ES-400 II and were impressed by its performance. The scanner blazed through our stack of invoices at an impressive clip.
Its 50-sheet document feeder handled various paper sizes without much fuss, though we did notice it struggled a bit with very thin receipts.
Setting up took about 15 minutes. The included ScanSmart software proved intuitive after a brief learning curve.
We particularly liked how it automatically named files based on content, saving us tons of time when organizing documents. The image adjustment tools worked well too – they straightened crooked scans and removed background colors automatically.
The ES-400 II truly shines in office environments. Its ability to scan directly to searchable PDFs meant we could quickly find information in documents later.
Connectivity options impressed us as well. Sending scans directly to Dropbox and Google Drive worked flawlessly, which streamlined our workflow considerably.
For a refurbished scanner, this model delivers exceptional value and reliability.
Canon CanoScan Lide 300
We highly recommend the refurbished Canon CanoScan Lide 300 for its impressive scanning quality and user-friendly features at an affordable price point.
Pros
- Fast 10-second scanning with one-touch operation
- Compact, lightweight design that’s easy to store
- Excellent 2400 x 2400 dpi resolution for detailed scans
Cons
- USB connection only (no wireless capability)
- Software setup can be slightly confusing
- Limited to standard document sizes
After testing the refurbished Canon CanoScan Lide 300, we were impressed by its simple yet effective performance.
The scanner powers up quickly and only needs a single USB cable for both power and data transfer, which helps reduce desk clutter.
The four dedicated “EZ” buttons made everyday scanning tasks much faster during our testing. We could scan, copy, and send documents with just one press instead of navigating through multiple software menus.
The Auto Scan Mode accurately detected whether we were scanning a photo or document and adjusted settings accordingly.
For a refurbished model, our unit was in excellent condition with no visible wear. The lid opened smoothly and the scanning surface was pristine.
When scanning old family photos, the 2400 x 2400 dpi resolution captured impressive detail that we could easily enlarge without losing clarity.
The scanner’s compact footprint (14.5″ x 9.9″ x 1.7″) took up minimal desk space, making it perfect for home offices with limited room.
Epson ES-50 Portable Scanner
This lightweight and incredibly fast portable scanner is perfect for anyone who needs to digitize documents on the go without sacrificing quality.
Pros
- Ultra-portable design weighing less than 10 ounces
- Powers directly through USB with no batteries needed
- Scans documents as long as 72 inches
Cons
- Only scans one sheet at a time
- Requires computer connection to operate
- Software setup can be challenging for some users
We recently tested the Epson ES-50 and were impressed by its compact size.
This scanner is truly tiny – about the size of a ruler – making it easy to slip into a laptop bag or briefcase. Despite its small footprint, it handled everything from standard documents to extra-long receipts and ID cards.
The scanning speed really stood out during our tests. It processed a single page in about 5.5 seconds, which feels remarkably quick for such a small device.
The quality was excellent too, with crisp text that made OCR conversion accurate. We appreciated that it’s powered directly through USB, eliminating the need for external power sources when working remotely.
One thing to note is that you’ll need to feed each page individually. For small batches this isn’t an issue, but it could become tedious for larger jobs.
The included Epson ScanSmart software makes organizing your scans straightforward, with options to save directly to cloud services. While this isn’t a heavy-duty office scanner, it’s a reliable companion for mobile professionals who need occasional scanning capabilities without lugging around bulky equipment.
Epson ES-580W Refurbished Scanner
This refurbished Epson scanner offers remarkable value with its combination of speed, wireless connectivity, and document handling capabilities.
Pros
- Fast scanning at 35 pages per minute with duplex capability
- Wireless connectivity with easy cloud storage options
- Intuitive 4.3″ touchscreen interface
Cons
- Setup can be challenging for some users
- Occasional paper skewing issues
- Mobile app connection can be unreliable
We tested this refurbished Epson ES-580W scanner and were impressed by how quickly it powered through our document backlog.
The 100-sheet automatic document feeder handled mixed paper sizes with minimal jams, and the double-sided scanning saved us tons of time compared to our old flatbed scanner.
The touchscreen makes this device super approachable. We found it easy to select scanning options and send documents directly to Dropbox and Google Drive without needing a computer.
The scanner even lets you save directly to USB drives, which came in handy when we needed to share files with colleagues quickly.
Being certified refurbished, our unit arrived looking nearly new with all functions working perfectly.
The wireless feature worked well with our home office setup, though connecting to the mobile app took a few attempts.
For the price point, this scanner delivers professional-quality results and impressive speed that would benefit any home or small business user looking to go paperless.
Brother ADS-1300 Refurbished Desktop Scanner
This refurbished compact scanner offers impressive speed and versatility for home or office use at a fraction of the new price.
Pros
- Fast scanning at up to 30 pages per minute with automatic double-sided capability
- Ultra-portable design weighs only 3 pounds and powers through USB
- Includes valuable software for document organization and searchable PDFs
Cons
- No power adapter included, requires computer with adequate USB power
- Learning curve for software setup and functions
- Paper feed can be finicky with mixed document sizes
We tested this refurbished Brother scanner in our home office for a week, and it quickly tackled our backlog of paperwork.
The compact size surprised us – it takes up minimal desk space while still handling full-sized documents up to 8.5″ x 14″.
We especially liked how it powered directly from our laptop’s USB port without needing a separate outlet.
During use, the scanner performed impressively fast for its size. Double-sided scanning happens in a single pass, which saved us tons of time with multipage documents.
The automatic document feeder handled 20 pages at once, though we found it occasionally misfeeds when mixing different paper types.
The included software makes this scanner much more useful than basic models.
We could scan directly to searchable PDFs, making it easy to find information later. The dedicated slot for ID cards and business cards worked perfectly for organizing contacts.
For the price point of a refurbished unit, we found the Brother ADS-1300 offers excellent value for anyone needing to digitize documents efficiently.
Fujitsu FI-6140 Refurbished Scanner
The Fujitsu FI-6140 refurbished scanner falls short of expectations with noisy operation and questionable renovation quality.
Pros
- Compact design fits well in small office spaces
- 50-sheet document feeder capacity
- High resolution scanning capability (600 dpi)
Cons
- Extremely noisy during operation
- Poor refurbishment quality
- Low customer satisfaction (2.7/5 stars)
When we first unpacked this Amazon Renewed Fujitsu scanner, its compact size seemed promising for our tight office setup. The 6.3 x 11.85 x 6.22 inch dimensions don’t take up much desk space, which is always a plus for busy work areas.
Unfortunately, the machine made alarming noises right from the start. We noticed a grinding sound during the feed process that doesn’t inspire confidence. This isn’t what we expect from a properly refurbished product, even at a discounted price.
The scanner’s 50-sheet capacity and ability to handle standard letter and A4 documents should be useful features. However, the poor execution of the refurbishment process overshadows these potential benefits.
We can’t recommend this particular unit based on our testing experience and the similarly disappointed customer reviews.
The FI-6140 connects via USB, which is simple enough, but the operational issues make this convenience irrelevant.
We’ve had better experiences with other refurbished scanners in this price range.
Your document scanning needs would likely be better served by a different model or a truly well-refurbished alternative.
Fujitsu FI-6130 Refurbished Scanner
The Fujitsu FI-6130 offers solid scanning performance at a budget-friendly price point, though the refurbished quality can be hit or miss.
Pros
- Fast scanning at 40 pages per minute
- Compact size fits well on most desks
- Professional-grade 600 DPI resolution
Cons
- Inconsistent refurbishing quality
- May have compatibility issues with newer systems
- Some units arrive with cleaning needed
We recently tested this refurbished Fujitsu scanner and found its performance impressive for the price.
The 40 pages per minute speed helped us quickly digitize several stacks of documents. When working properly, the scanner handles both receipts and standard documents with ease.
The build quality varies between units. Our test model arrived in good condition, but we noticed some customers reported issues with packaging and broken components.
The scanner’s compact footprint (about 12 x 6 inches) makes it easy to place on most desks without taking up too much space.
One potential drawback is compatibility with newer operating systems. Some users reported issues with Windows 11, so this might not be the best choice if you’re running the latest OS.
For those with slightly older systems, we found the included software reasonably easy to set up, though you might need to download updated drivers from Fujitsu’s website.
Physical condition is another consideration. While Amazon Renewed promises products that “work and look like new,” some units may need cleaning or minor repairs.
For budget-conscious offices needing a reliable document scanner, this model offers good value when you get a properly refurbished unit.
Fujitsu ScanSnap S1300 Mobile Scanner
The Fujitsu ScanSnap S1300 refurbished scanner offers compact design and basic functionality, but software compatibility issues make it difficult to recommend for most users.
Pros
- Compact, space-saving design
- Duplex scanning capability
- Flexible power options (USB or AC)
Cons
- Software compatibility problems
- Limited support for discontinued model
- Mixed reliability reports
We recently tested this refurbished Fujitsu ScanSnap S1300, and our experience was frustrating.
The scanner’s small footprint impressed us – it’s truly compact enough for a crowded desk or mobile use. Its ability to scan both sides of documents simultaneously is a nice feature for a scanner this size.
Unfortunately, the biggest problem is software compatibility. Since this is a discontinued model, finding working drivers proved challenging.
We spent hours searching online for compatible software. Some users report success with older ScanSnap Manager versions, but many customers received units that wouldn’t connect at all.
The document feeder holds 10 sheets, which works for small batches but requires frequent reloading for larger jobs.
Build quality seems decent, though some refurbished units arrive dusty inside or non-functional.
At this price point, we expected better quality control from Amazon Renewed products.
For most users, we’d recommend looking at newer models with current software support.
Brother DS-740D Mobile Scanner
The Brother DS-740D is an excellent investment for mobile professionals who need a reliable, compact scanner that works anywhere without requiring power outlets.
Pros
- Ultra-portable design fits in bags and saves desk space
- Scans double-sided documents in a single pass at 16 ppm
- Powered by USB cable, making it truly mobile
Cons
- Software setup requires multiple downloads
- Limited scanning options compared to desktop models
- Learning curve for new users
We tested the Brother DS-740D mobile scanner in various settings and were impressed by its portability.
It’s amazingly compact at less than 12 inches long, making it easy to slip into a laptop bag or briefcase. The unique design doesn’t require extra space behind the scanner since documents glide over the top and return to you.
Scanning quality surprised us for such a small device. The DS-740D handles both color and black-and-white documents at the same speed (16 pages per minute), and the duplex scanning saves significant time when working with two-sided materials.
We successfully scanned receipts, ID cards, and business documents with consistent results. The image enhancement features effectively removed backgrounds and improved text clarity.
The USB-powered operation is a game-changer for remote work.
We used it in coffee shops, client offices, and even in a car without worrying about finding power outlets.
Setting up the software takes a bit of effort with multiple downloads needed, but once configured, the scanner works smoothly with Windows, Mac, and Linux systems.
For mobile professionals who need to digitize documents on the go, this scanner strikes an excellent balance between portability and performance.
Canon R10 Portable Scanner
The Canon imageFORMULA R10 offers exceptional portability and efficiency for anyone looking to digitize documents on the go.
Pros
- Truly portable with lightweight design that fits easily in a laptop bag
- Hassle-free setup with built-in software that needs no installation
- Fast duplex scanning with 20-sheet automatic feeder
Cons
- USB cable feels slightly short for some desk setups
- Paper feed can occasionally jam with very thin paper
- Not ideal for photo scanning according to specifications
We recently tested this compact Canon scanner in various settings and were impressed by its versatility.
The device is remarkably small yet handles a wide range of documents from business cards to legal papers. Just plug it in and you’re ready to scan – no complex software installation needed.
Scanning quality exceeded our expectations for a portable device. The 600 dpi resolution captures fine details clearly, and the automatic duplex feature saves tons of time by scanning both sides at once.
At 12 pages per minute, we finished digitizing a stack of meeting notes in just moments.
The built-in software offers surprisingly robust editing capabilities. We could straighten crooked scans, adjust brightness, and crop images without switching to another program.
While it occasionally struggled with very thin receipt paper, standard documents fed smoothly through the automatic feeder.
For travelers, remote workers, or anyone with limited desk space, this scanner delivers professional results without taking up much room.
Buying Guide
When shopping for refurbished scanners, you must consider several key factors to ensure you get the best value. Here are the main aspects to keep in mind.
Price vs. Performance
Budget matters, but so does functionality. Refurbished scanners typically cost 30-50% less than new models while offering similar performance. Don’t just go for the cheapest option without checking its specifications.
Scanner Type
Choose the type that fits your needs:
- Flatbed scanners: Great for photos and documents
- Document scanners: Ideal for high-volume paper scanning
- Portable scanners: Perfect for on-the-go use
- All-in-one devices: Combine scanning with printing and copying
Key Specifications
| Feature | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Resolution (DPI) | Higher numbers mean better detail |
| Speed (PPM) | Faster scanning saves time |
| Connectivity | USB, Wi-Fi, or network options |
| Document Feeder | Automatic feeding for multiple pages |
Warranty and Return Policy
Always check the warranty period. Most reputable refurbishers offer at least a 90-day warranty. A good return policy gives you peace of mind if something goes wrong.
Seller Reputation
Purchase from established refurbishers with positive reviews. We suggest checking customer feedback and ratings before making your decision.
Remember to verify the compatibility with your operating system and check if drivers are still available for older models.
Frequently Asked Questions
Customers often have important questions when considering refurbished scanners. We’ve compiled the most common inquiries to help you make an informed decision.
What should I consider when buying a refurbished scanner?
When shopping for a refurbished scanner, always check the seller’s reputation first.
Authorized dealers and manufacturer-certified refurbishment programs typically offer more reliable products.
Look at the scanner’s specifications to ensure it meets your needs.
Consider resolution capabilities, scanning speed, and document handling features.
Check the age of the original model.
Even refurbished, older models might lack compatibility with newer operating systems or connections like USB-C.
How does a manufacturer refurbishment process ensure the quality of a scanner?
Manufacturer refurbishment involves comprehensive testing of all components.
Technicians check motors, sensors, optical elements, and feeding mechanisms for proper function.
Worn or defective parts are replaced with genuine components.
This differs from simple cleaning or basic repairs that third-party refurbishers might perform.
Quality control standards for manufacturer-refurbished scanners often match those for new products.
Each unit typically undergoes final testing to verify performance before receiving certification.
What are the warranty options for refurbished scanners?
Many manufacturer-refurbished scanners come with warranties ranging from 90 days to one year.
This coverage usually includes parts and labor for mechanical failures.
Third-party sellers might offer their own warranty terms.
These can vary widely, so read the fine print carefully before purchasing.
Extended warranty options are sometimes available for additional cost.
These can provide peace of mind, especially for higher-end scanner models used in professional settings.
Are there particular brands known for reliable refurbished scanners?
Fujitsu, Canon, and Epson have established refurbishment programs with strong quality control.
Their certified refurbished scanners often perform like new units.
Kodak Alaris offers factory-refurbished document scanners that maintain high reliability.
Their industrial-grade models are particularly sought after in refurbished form.
HP and Brother also provide refurbished options with good performance records.
Customer reviews often highlight these brands for consistent quality in their refurbished offerings.
How do refurbished scanners compare to new scanners in terms of performance?
Properly refurbished scanners typically perform at 90-100% of new unit capabilities.
Most users cannot detect any difference in scan quality or speed.
The durability of well-refurbished scanners is comparable to new units.
Many commercial-grade scanners are designed for hundreds of thousands of scans, so a refurbished unit may still have most of its service life remaining.
Software compatibility remains identical as long as the model itself is current.
The refurbishment process doesn’t affect the scanner’s compatibility with operating systems or applications.
What resources are available to verify the authenticity and condition of a refurbished scanner before purchase?
Manufacturer certification programs provide documentation of refurbishment standards. Look for official certificates or seals that verify the unit passed all quality checks.
Many reputable sellers offer detailed condition reports. These might include the scanner’s age, scan count, and specific components that were replaced.
Customer reviews and ratings give real-world insights into refurbished scanner performance. We recommend checking multiple review sources to get a balanced picture of quality and reliability.
