Scanner apps are handy, but many ask you to install them, create an account or pay to remove limits. If you only need to scan a few pages now and then, you can skip the app. Here are the free options.
1. A browser scanner
A web scanner such as the WriteDroid Image Scanner works in any modern browser. You take or choose a photo, crop the page and save a PDF, JPG or PNG. There is no install, no sign-up and no watermark, and your photos are processed on your device.
2. The scanner built into your phone
- iPhone: open the Notes app, tap the camera icon and choose Scan Documents.
- Android: the Google Drive app has a Scan option that saves a PDF to your Drive. Some phones also have a scanner in the camera or Files app.
3. Your computer
If you already have a flatbed or all in one printer, its scanning software works well for large batches.
How to choose
| You need | Best option |
|---|---|
| One or two pages quickly | Browser scanner |
| Everything saved in the cloud | Phone built in scanner |
| Hundreds of pages | Printer or flatbed scanner |
Tips for a good scan with any tool
- Use a flat, plain surface and even light.
- Hold the camera straight above the page.
- Crop the edges so only the paper shows, and choose the Small file quality to keep the file small.
See the full steps in our guide on how to scan a document with your phone.