Hump Day Hardware: Slide Scanners

Last week I gave my recommendation for a good desktop scanner. There is no question that every user needs a desktop scanner. You might also need to add a slide scanner to your arsenal if you often need to scan slides or negatives. I'm going to provide you with a couple of different options for good slide scanners.

Two of my favorites are available from CostCo. For less than $130, you can get the PrimeFilm 3600u Film and Slide Scanner. If you want a larger feature list and faster speed, the PrimeFilm 35mm Film and Slide Scanner 3650U is less than $250 at CostCo. One of the best features you get in the latter is the Digital Ice3 technology for removing defects from scanned images. Of course either of those options will require a CostCo membership to take advantage of those prices.

Those two scanners work well for someone who needs to scan film and slides, but wants to keep the price under control. The next two options are in a completely different price range. Of course they also supply a significantly different level of features and quality. The Nikon Super CoolScan 5000 ED Film Scanner sells for just under $1100. I told you it was in a different price range.

For an even more powerful scanner, check out the Nikon Super CoolScan 9000 ED Film Scanner. Not only can it handle 35mm film and slides, it can also handle larger transparent media. Of course this top-notch scanner comes in at just under $2200.

I think most users can find a use for one of the PrimeFilm models, especially at their bargain prices. Only those with the need for the utmost in power who scan large quantities of film/slides will want to look at the expensive Nikon models.