What To Know
- If you’re looking for a high-quality flatbed scanner for professional use or serious hobbyists, the Epson Perfection V850 Pro and V800 are two popular contenders.
- The V800 also handles a wide range of media, but it lacks the dedicated transparency unit found in the V850 Pro.
- The V850 Pro delivers speeds of up to 14 seconds for a 4×6 photo at 300 dpi, while the **V800** takes approximately 16 seconds for the same scan.
Choosing the right scanner can be a daunting task, especially when you’re faced with a plethora of options. If you’re looking for a high-quality flatbed scanner for professional use or serious hobbyists, the Epson Perfection V850 Pro and V800 are two popular contenders. Both scanners offer exceptional features and capabilities, but they also have distinct differences that might make one a better fit for your needs than the other.
This comprehensive guide will delve into the key features, pros, and cons of each scanner, helping you make an informed decision. We’ll explore their image quality, resolution, scanning capabilities, software, and price to determine which one ultimately reigns supreme.
A Quick Overview: Epson Perfection V850 Pro vs V800
Before diving into the details, let’s get a quick overview of the two scanners:
Epson Perfection V850 Pro:
- High-resolution scanner: 6400 x 9600 dpi optical resolution
- Professional-grade features: Includes a transparency unit for scanning slides and negatives, high-speed scanning, and advanced software
- Focus on detail and precision: Ideal for photographers, artists, and archivists
Epson Perfection V800:
- Versatile scanner: Offers high-quality scans for photos, documents, and artwork
- Affordable option: More budget-friendly than the V850 Pro
- Solid performance: Provides excellent image quality and speed for everyday scanning needs
Image Quality: A Tale of Two Resolutions
Both the Epson Perfection V850 Pro and V800 deliver impressive image quality, but the V850 Pro takes the lead with its higher optical resolution.
The V850 Pro boasts a 6400 x 9600 dpi optical resolution, allowing for incredibly detailed scans. This higher resolution is particularly beneficial for capturing intricate details in photographs, artwork, and documents. You can zoom in on your scans without losing sharpness, making it ideal for professional-grade applications or archiving.
The V800 features a 4800 x 9600 dpi optical resolution, which still produces excellent image quality for most scanning needs. The difference in resolution might not be noticeable for everyday scans, but for professional work or high-resolution printing, the V850 Pro’s added detail could be crucial.
Scanning Capabilities: Beyond the Basics
Both scanners offer a wide range of scanning capabilities, but the V850 Pro includes some advanced features that cater to professionals.
The V850 Pro excels in versatility, allowing you to scan a diverse array of media:
- Photographs: Prints, negatives, and slides
- Documents: Paper, business cards, and books
- Artwork: Paintings, drawings, and three-dimensional objects
The V800 also handles a wide range of media, but it lacks the dedicated transparency unit found in the V850 Pro. This means you’ll need a separate adapter for scanning slides and negatives.
Software: Powerful Tools for Image Enhancement
Both scanners come bundled with powerful software that enhances your scanning experience. The V850 Pro features Epson Scan 2, a comprehensive software suite that offers advanced features like:
- Automatic document skew correction: Straightens skewed documents for professional-looking scans
- Dust and scratch removal: Cleans up imperfections in your scans
- Color restoration: Enhances faded colors in old photographs
- Batch scanning: Allows you to scan multiple documents or photos at once
The V800 comes with Epson Scan, a streamlined version of the software that provides essential features for basic scanning needs. It includes:
- Automatic photo correction: Improves image quality with one-click adjustments
- Document scan mode: Optimizes settings for scanning documents
- Multi-page scanning: Scans multiple pages of documents quickly
Speed: Time Is of the Essence
While both scanners offer fast scanning speeds, the V850 Pro edges out the **V800** with its slightly quicker performance. This difference is more noticeable when scanning high-resolution images or documents.
The V850 Pro delivers speeds of up to 14 seconds for a 4×6 photo at 300 dpi, while the **V800** takes approximately 16 seconds for the same scan. The difference in speed becomes more pronounced for larger scans or higher resolutions.
Price: Finding the Right Balance
The V850 Pro is the more expensive option, reflecting its advanced features and professional-grade capabilities. The **V800** offers a more budget-friendly solution, providing excellent image quality and performance at a lower price point.
The price difference is significant, so it’s important to consider your budget and scanning needs when making your decision.
The Verdict: Choosing the Ideal Scanner
So, which scanner is right for you? The answer depends on your individual needs and budget.
Choose the Epson Perfection V850 Pro if:
- You’re a professional photographer, artist, or archivist.
- You need the highest possible resolution for detailed scans.
- You frequently scan slides, negatives, and documents.
- You’re willing to invest in a high-quality scanner with advanced features.
Choose the Epson Perfection V800 if:
- You’re a casual user who needs a versatile scanner for everyday tasks.
- You prioritize affordability without compromising image quality.
- You primarily scan documents, photos, and artwork.
Final Note: Finding the Perfect Scan
Ultimately, the best scanner for you will depend on your individual needs and budget. The Epson Perfection V850 Pro offers exceptional image quality, advanced features, and professional-grade performance, while the V800 provides a more affordable solution with excellent capabilities for everyday users. By carefully considering your requirements, you can choose the scanner that best fits your needs and delivers the perfect scan every time.
What You Need to Learn
Q: Can I scan 3D objects with either scanner?
A: Both scanners can scan 3D objects, but they require a separate adapter for this purpose. The V850 Pro has a built-in feature for scanning 3D objects, but it’s still recommended to use a dedicated adapter for optimal results.
Q: What is the difference between optical resolution and interpolated resolution?
A: Optical resolution refers to the physical resolution of the scanner’s sensor. Interpolated resolution is a software-based enhancement that creates a higher resolution image by adding pixels. While interpolated resolution can improve image quality, it doesn’t capture as much detail as optical resolution.
Q: Can I use these scanners for scanning documents for archival purposes?
A: Yes, both scanners are suitable for scanning documents for archival purposes. The V850 Pro’s higher resolution and advanced features make it ideal for preserving delicate documents, but the V800 can also produce high-quality scans for archival use.
Q: Do these scanners come with any warranties?
A: Both scanners come with a one-year limited warranty. You can also purchase extended warranties for additional coverage.
Q: Is there a significant difference in size and weight between the two scanners?
A: The V850 Pro is slightly larger and heavier than the V800, but the difference is minimal. Both scanners are relatively compact and easy to transport.
