Manage updates with the Download AppCNET Editors' review
For those who want a scanning program that adds features over those of native Mac applications, VueScan for Mac does just that--and it performed well in our tests.
VueScan for Mac comes with a free trial version that limits the scanners available for use. The full version costs $39.95 to unlock. The download completed as quickly as expected via a high-speed connection. A user guide was available as a link to the developer's Web site, which was a helpful feature. Support for updates also appeared to be available. The main menu had a dated design, but was functional. Main buttons were clearly labeled for primary functions like input and output, among others. The output can be changed in many ways, including printed size or file type. The right side of the window contains the image preview from the scanner and the scanned image, itself. In addition to basic scanning features, the application also allows minor editing, like color changes and cropping. These functions, along with the scanning, performed well without any glitches or programming bugs.
VueScan for Mac performs well, albeit with a dated interface. It is suitable for any Mac user who wants to add a few simple but useful tools to the scanning process.
Editors' note: This is a review of the trial version of VueScan for Mac 9.2.18.
Publisher's Description
From Hamrick Software:
VueScan is a powerful scanning program that works with most scanners to produce high-quality scans that have excellent color fidelity. It takes advantage of the advanced hardware capabilities of most scanners on the market today, and helps you do batch scanning while at the same time producing color-balanced and cropped images.
What's new in this version: Added support for 52 Brother scanners
- ADS-2500N
- ADS-2600N
- DCP-128C
- DCP-129C
- DCP-131C
- DCP-173C
- DCP-175C
- DCP-177C
- DCP-190C
- DCP-191C
- DCP-239C
- DCP-329C
- DCP-331C
- DCP-391CN
- DCP-593CW
- DCP-595CW
- DCP-597CW
- DCP-9015CN
- DCP-9020CDN
- DCP-9020CDW
- FAX-1815C
- FAX-1820C
- FAX-1835C
- FAX-1840C
- FAX-1860C
- FAX-1920CN... See all new features
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All versions:
4.3 starsout of 925 votes
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Current version:
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My rating:
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"It works OK"
Version: VueScan 9.2.17
Pros
supports lots of different scanners but I only own two
Cons
To expensive
the upgraded version for $80 has all the features which is w2hat I need but I don't need to upgrade every other day either.
As far as my limited view can see is that the upgrades are just for new scanners.
It would be nice if it would actually scan right into Photoshop 5, 6, etc.Summary
I really liked the Epson scanner software that came with my scanner however the new version of OSX does not support that and I am forced to use "Print & Scan" in Mountain Lion.
It is very limited.
VueScan does have all the features and I do not dislike it but I would like it a lot more if I could afford the full version.....does it ever go on sale....? -
"the best one"
Version: VueScan 9.2.11
Pros
nearly perfect
Cons
none that I can see
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"Continues to be the best scanner app I have ever used"
Version: VueScan 9.1.21
Pros
Unprecedented, proactive support for all the scanners on the market
Cons
What is not to like?
Summary
A really industrial strength scanner software package that a first time user has no problem understanding how to use it.
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"since many years every time a pleasure to use it"
Version: VueScan 9.1.19
Pros
quick and easy handling
Cons
updates not always necessary, i think
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"Good software at an acceptable price."
Version: VueScan 9.1.14
Pros
Solid software with many features including OCR. Works well with my old HP All-in-One (PSC 2110).
Cons
User interface not very intuitive. Frequent updates with small changes. Manual updating instead of the common "Install and Relaunch".
Summary
Probably the best Scan Software that I am glad to have and use frequently.
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"Compatability good. Pricing system bad."
Version: VueScan 9.1.06
Pros
Works with every scanner I've ever had.
Cons
Standard $40 edition "expires" after a year, forcing you to upgrade or get watermarked images. Odd model for buying software. Lots (and lots) of settings and clicks to do even basic scanning.
Summary
This is the only piece of software I've ever bought that "expires," which is a frustrating and odd model. You buy software and it works until you need to upgrade (OS, hardware, etc.). That's the time-tested model we've used for years. Hamrick insists on this other thing, which is a frustrating reality for garden-variety scanners like me who only occasionally need/use it.
Usability is a little clunky. For even a basic scan, you have to fiddle a lot of settings, and it's easy to overwrite a scan if you don't. Technically, it does what it should. It's just not terribly graceful and user friendly on its way to doing so. -
"64-bit only here"
Version: VueScan 9.1.02
Pros
Works like a charm! The best there is!!
Cons
CNET doesn't tell you this version is 64-bit only. You can get the 32-bit from Ed Hamrick's website.
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"Eight years of exceptional utility and counting!"
Version: VueScan 9.0.95
Pros
Bought the professional iteration in 2004: Exceptional results, versatile, easy-to-use... Wish there was a similar program for printers!
Cons
auto-update feature would be appreciated!
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"The best keeps getting better"
Version: VueScan 9.0.92
Pros
Works on HP AIOs much better than HP or App,e solutions.
Works for a huge variety of scanners.
CONSTANT improvement and updates by developer (I have been using it since the1990s).Cons
Difficult to figure how to scan to multi page PDFs from the flat glass plate of an AIO scanner.
LACK OF AN (AUTOMATIC) IN-APP UPDATE CAPABILITY. No "Check for Updates" menu choice.Summary
As noted, I have been using VueScan on my Macs since the days of OS9, or maybe even earlier. It beats anything on the market. I really can't comment on any specific update, because updates come along at a rapid pace. I only wish tat I could update from WITHIN the VueScan app.
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"What all software should be."
Version: VueScan 9.0.89
Pros
The best scanning software available.
Supports almost every scanner , flatbed and slide, you can think of.
The best support of any software I've owned and I've owned it for years.
Keeps getting better and better.Cons
None I can think of.
