Humble accessibility and steadfast functions have contributed to making scanning technology burgeon for over a decade. It enables the option to scan PDFs, documents, and images in an electronic format that promises better storage, security, and – No paper. There are different top free scanning software available in the market, complementing different documents, formats, and multiple other functions that you may enjoy. These top scanner apps for Mac allow you to scan any form of document as you want with ease. You will find both open-source and other tools with advanced features of scanning. We have collected the best free scanning software for Mac that leads a smooth way out to get the scanning done and offers ample features.
Why Use Scanning Software?
The simplest of reasons have made scanning technology be counted on by many. Scanning programs are easily available, provide quick access, save time and avoid the hassle. Here are some of the attractive perks of using the scanner programs for Mac:
These free scanning software for Mac allow you to scan the documents and images into electronic documents.You can store the scanned documents without too much hassle.Almost every scanner software for Mac enables easy sharing.Allows editing the texts and images with ease.These tools are free to use and save your time.
Now, without beating the bushes, let’s straight away move on to our top best scanning software for Mac 2023 below and then have a look at the rest. Read Also: Best Free Mac Cleaning Apps
Top Best Scanner App for Mac (2023)
Here are the top 5 free Mac scanner software that offers competitive and helpful features to scan any form of a document very easily:
What Are the Best Free Scanning Software for Mac in 2023?
In case you haven’t already installed one on your Mac, here is the list of 12 best free scanner software for Mac that are sure to ask you to keep calm and get the flow moving. Each features an offer that may be everything you want.
1. TWAIN SANE
In this list of top free scanning software for Mac, TWAIN SANE has to be one of the first ones to count on and the credit goes to its easy-to-understand functionality and its compatibility with other image-centric applications. Features to look for:
TWAIN SANE has a user-friendly interface.It is compatible with several other applications such as MS Word, Image Capture, and Graphic Converter.You can scan the documents through SANE backend libraries that offer a terrific range of scanners.Not to mention, it features easy installation and is free to use making it one of the best free scanner software for Mac to be available.
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The scanning process requires minimum effortThe dashboard can be easily understoodOffers a range of incredible scannersVariety of available updates
Issues of software crash reported by users
2. PDF Scanner
Another best free scanner software for Mac is PDF Scanner which is a favorite of many users. When it comes to scanning images and documents, you may want to end your hunt for scanning software here, given its cool-headed features that make your access easy on the hand. Features to look for:
PDF Scanner features a user-friendly interface that makes the usual errands related to scanning hassle-free.It allows you to enjoy the scanned documents and images without ‘too much’ compression and keep the clarity in check.It features integration with OCR, making control over the data quicker.You have the freedom to edit your scanned documents with this free scanning software for Mac.
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User-friendly and clean interfaceAllows Quick scans for files and documentsEdit or crop scanned documents
Can have occasional lags
3. ExactScan
ExactScan is one of the best scanning software for Mac that has the capacity to scan about 200 documents and is compatible with other scanners. Besides, this software, launched by ExactCode, is free and easy to function. Features to look for:
ExactScan allows you to store and scan over 200 documents.It supports almost every scanner out there.It allows you and whoever scans the documents to create an individual profile.This free scanning software for Mac features an easy installation and friendly interface.
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Can save multiple profiles for quick scansDoes not require a lot of storage spaceSimple and user-friendly interfaceSuggestions to align and crop the scanned files
Does not support old scannersPerformance issues
4. VueScan
Counting on another best free scanner software for Mac to be at your fingertips, VueScan had to make it to this list. It supports over 2800 scanners that function on Windows, OS X, and Linux. It offers you to view the scanned documents in multiple formats. Read Also: Best Free Image Converter Software Features to look for:
VueScan is a free scanning software for Mac and does not cost you a heavy time.It works well with over 2800 types of scanners that are functioned on Windows, OS X, and Linux.This scanner program for Mac allows you to view the scanned documents in multiple formats like JPG, PDF, or TIFF.
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5. SilverFast
SilverFast counts as one the best free scanning software for Mac that you may wish to install for it is also a neat scanner software for Mac and can deliver the best outputs. Want to scan the images with striking clarity and avoid the uninvited shabbiness? Perhaps, this photo scanner software for Mac is the answer. Features to look for:
It allows you to scan the images in colored and black & white modes.This scanning software for Mac is able to work well with over 340 scanners.The neat outputs it puts forth are what may make you consider this software.
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6. DocScanner
If you are still not done hunting for the free scanning software for Mac, then DocScanner is probably the solution you may want to get your hands on. It is quick, easy, and offers qualitative outputs. Below are some of the notable features of DocScanner that make it a great addition to the list of best scanning software for Mac. Features to look for:
One interesting feature about this best scanner DocScanner is that it is available in about 15 languages.It allows you to scan documents and images effectively.This scanner program for Mac allows you to edit PDF documents easily.It allows you to share the documents.
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7. PDF Studio
Yet another best scanning software for Mac that is sure to make your to-dos be easy on you. This amazing scanning software, with its extensive features, allows you to create and scan PDFs. You can use the scanning program for Mac with a free trial and continue with its Standard or Pro version. Read Also: Best Document Scanning Software for Windows 10 Features to look for:
PDF Studio allows you to create and scan PDF documents.The documents can be shared and secured in this software.It allows you to zoom in and create additional changes in the documents.
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8. PDF pen
PDF pen is one of the best free scanning software as it offers the user to scan, highlight, scribble and correct text easily. The software scans the text from images and converts them into words in just a few seconds. The user can just select the text and click on the correct text option to edit. Moreover, for any other changes, you can also export the document in Word format to edit. Features to look for:
The user can easily proofread the document with the inbuilt Optical character Recognition (OCR)Cloud storage for the PDFsDrag and drop easily to add and remove pagesOne-click edit text feature
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9. Presto! PageManager 9.5
One of the easiest and most simple software to have for scanning on Mac. Presto! PageManager 9.5 offers great inbuilt tools like editing, file recognition, secured storage, and many more. The software helps you in managing everything with ease. Read Also: 11 Best File Shredder Software For Mac Features to look for:
The software can easily merge files and can also separate themIt offers cloud sync for data backupA simple user interface to work onFilters files for quick viewing
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10. Doc Scanner
Doc Scanner is one of the best free scanning software for Mac that you can use. This software offers a variety of features like scan paper documents, business cards, and other document scanning. The best part about this scanner is that it is very fast and easy to operate. You can simply scan all the and get high-quality output in no time. Besides this, there are many other features which might interest you. We have listed some of them below. Scroll down to the feature list for more information. Features to look for:
The software automatically identifies edges for perfect scan resultsIt offers editing features like crop, rotates, edit, and signatureYou get the support of more than 15 languagesThe final scanned copy can be shared through various cloud platforms easilyThe software also supports voice commands
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11. Abby FineReader
The next best Free Scanning software Mac in 2023 is Abby FineReader. With the help of this tool you can easily create, edit, convert, scan, and protect documents of different formats such as Word, PDF, HTML, spreadsheets, etc. Moreover, you can add comments on PDF files to perform various tasks in a single place. An advanced Optional Character Recognition mechanism ensures that the file is converted and scanned accurately. For official purposes, users can try the Hot Folder feature of the software to scan documents on large scale. Features to Look For:
Organize your PDF files and create or edit them.Compare documents that are available even in different file formats.Optimize conversion routines and digitization.Make PDF files from images or paper with an easy-to-use user interfaceMake PDF files that are searchable.
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Over 192 Language support attract different usersOne-time plan for licensing.
Lacks full-text indexing.
12. Adobe Acrobat Pro DC
Another one on our list of Best free Scanning software for Mac in 2023 is Adobe Acrobat Pro DC. It was one of the first software to convert PDF files to searchable or editable on Mac devices. View files online with complete surety of security and safety. Mark important data in your files, add bookmarks to mark important links or information and add comments for updates. Moreover, you can search, add, or edit text or images on your PDF files. Features:
It has a user-friendly user interface.The customization possible in PDF files is excellent.It is integrated with other Adobe Creative Cloud SuiteThe latest versions are available for macOS Big Sur & Monterey.
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Text indexing to make searches quicker and more effectiveComplete editing even in mobile applications.Commenting and Sharing is possible through cloud baseConvert images to PDF by using the desktop application
Some of the high-powered OCR tools for proofreading are missing
If you still have any doubts related to the best document scanner for Mac, below we answer some of the most frequently asked questions related to the same for you: Q1. How Do I Scan To PDF On Mac? The process to scan PDFs on a Mac is quite easy. Just one the file you want to scan, click on the File menu, then move your cursor to New, and select the option named PDF from Scanner. Now all you need to do is select the scanner device. Alternatively, you can also take the help of the PDF scanner Mac listed above for this task. Q2. How Do I Install Scanning Software On Mac? You can easily install any best scanner for Macs by simply visiting the official website, from the website, you will find a direct link to either download the .zip or .dmg file. You can unzip and then install the file by double-clicking the same. Alternatively, the website may also redirect you to the official Apple Store to download and install the product. Q3. How Can I Make a Scanned Document Look Clearer? Different Mac scanning software comes with an option to make a scanned document look clearer on the device. You can use this feature and edit the document as you want for better quality and clarity. Q4. Is there a scanner app on Mac? Yes, the internet is filled with different open-source scanning software Mac and others like VueScan, TwainSane, etc. You can download and use any of these, as you want. Additionally, to help you even further, there is a list of the best Mac scanning software that can help you do the same. Q.5 How to connect a scanner to a Mac? The process to connect a scanner to the Mac is very easy. Firstly, download and install the latest best free scanning software for Mac as suited from the list above. Open the Apple Menu and run Printers and Scanners in the System Preferences settings. Click the plus (+) button and add the device you want. Once the scanner is added and connected, you can use the tool as required with ease. Q.6 How do I use a scanner with a Mac? To use the scanner with Mac, firstly, make sure that the scanner is connected to the Mac. Open the Apple Menu and run Printers and Scanners in the System Preferences settings. Near the scanner, click on the Open Scanner option and use the scanner to scan the image. Q.7 Why can’t I scan on my Mac? The issue in scanning can be due to improper settings on your Mac device. To enable scanning on Mac here are the steps that can be followed
Open the Apple menu and click on System Preferences.Expand the section for Printers and Scanners.From the list choose your scanner and click on the option Open Scanner present next to it.
If the updated settings couldn’t fix the scanner, download any of the above best-listed free scanning software. Use the top scanner application for Mac to scan documents at the ease of a single click. Q.8 Which scanner is best for Mac? There are a lot of scanners available for Mac, however, tools like TWAIN SANE, PDF Scanner, and ExactScan are amongst the best ones available. These apps make it quite easy for you to scan any kind of document or image on your Mac. Also Read: Best Free Auto Clicker For Mac
Wrap-Up
Scanning software has bagged an increasing number of installations and has proved to make the head spin less. Besides, who does not want to keep the fear of losing documents under their feet? These best free scanning software for Mac, with their key specs, provide qualitative results that you are in search of. Which scanning software is best? Share your experience with us in the comment section.
