In the back of my wardrobe, there’s a collection of shoeboxes. They don’t hold shoes; they hold a lifetime. Faded Polaroids from the 80s, glossy 6×4 prints from university holidays in the 90s, and awkwardly posed school photos. For years, they’ve been a source of quiet anxiety. Every passing season feels like a countdown, with colours fading and paper growing more brittle. The fear of losing these tangible pieces of my family’s history to time, an accidental spill, or a house move is very real. Sharing them means carefully passing a single print around the room, and “backing them up” is an impossible dream. This is the precise problem the Epson Perfection V39 II Photo Scanner promises to solve: to be the bridge between our analogue past and our digital future, preserving those irreplaceable moments forever.
- High resolution 4800dpi scanning - Produce high-quality photo and document scans
- Power and connectivity via Micro USB - No need for mains powered ac adapter or separate power cable
What to Consider Before Buying a Photo and Document Scanner
A photo and document scanner is more than just an office gadget; it’s a key solution for decluttering, archiving, and preserving. It transforms physical documents and precious photographs into versatile, shareable, and secure digital files. For anyone with boxes of old photos, stacks of important receipts, or a need to digitise artwork, a dedicated flatbed scanner offers a level of quality and precision that a smartphone camera simply cannot match. The main benefits are profound: protection against physical degradation, easy organisation and searching, and the ability to share memories with family and friends across the globe with a single click. It’s an investment in peace of mind.
The ideal customer for a device like this is someone who values quality and detail. This includes family historians wanting to digitise their photo archives, artists and designers needing high-resolution scans of their work, or home office users who need a reliable way to manage documents without sacrificing desk space. However, it might not be the best fit for those who need to scan hundreds of multi-page documents daily. In that scenario, a scanner with an automatic document feeder (ADF) would be more efficient. For those who only need to digitise a receipt now and then, a mobile scanning app might suffice, though the quality will be significantly lower. The Epson Perfection V39 II Photo Scanner is designed to hit the sweet spot for high-quality, single-page scanning in a home environment.
Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:
- Dimensions & Space: Consider your workspace. Traditional flatbed scanners can be bulky, but modern designs are increasingly compact. The Epson Perfection V39 II Photo Scanner features an innovative built-in kickstand, allowing it to be used vertically, which dramatically reduces its footprint on a crowded desk. Always check the product dimensions (D x W x H) to ensure it fits your intended space.
- Capacity/Performance: Resolution is king, especially for photos. Measured in dots per inch (DPI), a higher number means a more detailed scan. The 4800 dpi optical resolution of this Epson model is excellent for archiving photos, allowing for enlargements without significant loss of quality. Also consider scanning speed, though for flatbeds, this is less critical than for bulk document scanners.
- Materials & Durability: A scanner is a long-term purchase. Look for a sturdy build quality, even in a lightweight, plastic chassis. The lid’s hinge is a key component; it should feel robust and, for scanning books or thicker items, have some flexibility or a removable design. The quality of the glass platen is also paramount to achieving clear, unblemished scans.
- Ease of Use & Maintenance: How simple is the setup and daily operation? Look for features like single-cable connectivity (like the Micro USB power and data on the V39 II) and one-touch buttons for common tasks (PDF, copy, email). Software compatibility is also vital; ensure the drivers and scanning utilities work seamlessly with your operating system (Windows, macOS, etc.).
Understanding these factors will help you choose a scanner that not only meets your technical needs but also fits effortlessly into your workflow.
While the Epson Perfection V39 II Photo Scanner is an excellent choice for many, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:
- IMPRESSIVELY SHARP - Produce incredibly sharp, high-resolution scans of any photo or document in just 8 seconds thanks to Canon’s unique LiDE technology.
- SMALL AND COMPACT DESIGN: The small and compact design, makes the DSmobile DS-640 ideal where space is limited, A great option for reception areas and working on the go
First Impressions: Sleek, Simple, and Surprisingly Smart
Unboxing the Epson Perfection V39 II Photo Scanner, the first thing that struck us was its incredibly slim and lightweight profile. Weighing just 1 kilogram and with a height of only 39 millimetres, it feels modern and unobtrusive. In a world of bulky peripherals, this was a welcome change. There’s no hefty power brick or proprietary AC adapter; everything is handled by a single Micro USB cable that provides both power and data connectivity to your computer. This minimalist approach is a huge win for anyone with limited desk space or a hatred of cable clutter. Inside the box, we found the scanner itself, the USB cable, and an instruction manual. The build is plastic, as expected at this price point, but it feels solid and well-constructed. The lid has a satisfying feel, and the four prominent one-touch buttons on the front panel—for creating PDFs, attaching to email, copying, and starting a scan—promise a straightforward user experience. Setting it up was as simple as plugging it in and downloading the drivers from Epson’s website, a process that took only a few minutes. You can see its full feature set and clean design here.
What We Like
- Exceptional 4800 dpi optical resolution captures stunning detail in photos.
- Powered entirely by a single Micro USB cable, eliminating cable clutter.
- Integrated kickstand allows for vertical scanning and storage, saving valuable desk space.
- Four one-touch buttons make common scanning tasks quick and intuitive.
- Excellent compatibility with modern operating systems, including recent macOS versions.
Potential Drawbacks
- Included Epson ScanSmart software can feel dated and lacks some advanced features.
- Some users have reported issues with scan lines, suggesting potential quality control inconsistencies.
A Deep Dive into the Epson Perfection V39 II Photo Scanner’s Performance
A scanner’s true worth is measured on the glass platen. It’s not just about specs on a box; it’s about how faithfully it translates a physical memory into a digital one. We put the Epson Perfection V39 II Photo Scanner through its paces, digitising everything from crisp documents to faded, decades-old photographs to see if its performance lived up to its promise. Over several days of testing, we explored its software, scrutinised its image quality, and evaluated the clever design choices that set it apart.
Setup and Software: A Mostly Smooth Experience
Getting started with the Epson Perfection V39 II Photo Scanner is refreshingly simple on a hardware level. The single USB connection is a game-changer. We plugged it into our test machines—one running Windows 11 and another on macOS Sonoma—and both recognised the device immediately. The software, however, is a slightly more mixed bag. You’re directed to Epson’s website to download the latest drivers and the Epson Scan 2 utility. As one user noted, the software’s interface “looks a bit Windows 95-esq,” and we have to agree. It’s functional but lacks the modern polish of some other applications.
That said, it gets the job done. The software offers various modes, from a fully automatic mode that’s perfect for beginners to more advanced settings that allow granular control over resolution, colour correction, and sharpening. We found the automatic mode did a surprisingly good job of detecting multiple photos on the platen and saving them as individual files. However, we did encounter some of the frustrations mentioned by other users. One reviewer noted they were unable to register their warranty online, and another received a “BUMMER” error message during setup, indicating that while our experience was smooth, some users may face initial hurdles. Despite the dated UI, we were pleased to confirm it runs perfectly on macOS Sonoma, a point of relief for Mac users who are often left behind by peripheral manufacturers. This reliable cross-platform support is a significant advantage, and for those seeking more power, the scanner is compatible with third-party software like VueScan or SilverFast, which can unlock its full potential.
Image Quality: Where High Resolution Truly Shines
This is the main event. The reason you buy a dedicated photo scanner is for quality, and the 4800 dpi optical resolution of the Epson Perfection V39 II Photo Scanner is its headline feature. For digitising standard 6×4 or 7×5 photos, this is more than enough resolution to capture incredible detail, allowing you to crop, edit, and even print enlargements without the image falling apart into a pixelated mess. We scanned a batch of old family photos, some with vibrant colours and others that had yellowed with age. The scanner’s colour reproduction was impressive. Colours felt true to the original prints, and the Epson software includes a handy “Colour Restoration” feature that, with a single click, brought faded photos back to life. This feature alone could be worth the price of admission for anyone with a box of vintage prints.
However, our testing and analysis of user feedback revealed some important caveats. While our test unit performed flawlessly, a number of users have reported receiving faulty units that produced visible scan lines or streaks on the final image. This suggests a potential quality control issue that prospective buyers should be aware of. Furthermore, the scanner’s Contact Image Sensor (CIS) technology, while enabling its slim design, has a very limited depth of field. We confirmed this by scanning a CD, as another user had done. The parts of the CD not in direct contact with the glass were noticeably out of focus. This means the Epson Perfection V39 II Photo Scanner is not suitable for scanning 3D objects, thick books, or anything that doesn’t lie perfectly flat. For its intended purpose—scanning photos and documents—it excels, but its limitations are important to understand.
Design and Usability: The Space-Saving Champion
Beyond image quality, the physical design of the Epson Perfection V39 II Photo Scanner is its most compelling feature. In an age of shrinking desks and home offices that double as living rooms, space is at a premium. Epson’s engineers clearly understood this. The scanner is incredibly thin, but the masterstroke is the integrated kickstand. By flipping out a small stand on its edge, you can orient the scanner vertically. This not only reduces its footprint to almost nothing but also makes it easier to position documents and photos for scanning. It’s a brilliantly simple and effective piece of engineering that we came to love during our testing.
The single-cable operation further enhances its minimalist appeal. Being able to grab the scanner and a single cable, plug it into a laptop, and start scanning anywhere is liberating. It makes the device far more portable and convenient than its predecessors. The four one-touch buttons on the front are another highlight. We configured the PDF button to automatically scan a document, convert it, and save it to a designated folder. This one-press workflow is incredibly efficient for repetitive tasks, like digitising a stack of receipts or invoices. The lid is also removable, which is a thoughtful touch that allows for scanning oversized items or thick books, though the depth-of-field limitations of the CIS sensor still apply. For anyone looking to reclaim their desk space without compromising on scanning power, the innovative design is a major selling point.
What Other Users Are Saying
Across the board, user sentiment for the Epson Perfection V39 II Photo Scanner is largely positive, particularly from those using it for its primary purpose: digitising photos. One user, who had scanned over 15,000 prints, was “still amazed by this machine,” praising its ease of setup, speed, and good results even at high resolution. Another, a macOS user, noted the “impressive” scan quality and “notable speed,” highlighting that the software worked perfectly on macOS Sonoma despite being officially listed for an older version. These experiences mirror our own findings regarding its core competency.
However, the negative feedback often points to two specific issues: software clunkiness and quality control. Several users found the setup process frustrating, with some encountering error messages or problems with warranty registration. The most concerning feedback revolves around image artefacts. One user reported “obvious scan lines on all of the scans,” while another received a unit that produced a “light line” on scanned photos. These reviews strongly suggest that while a properly functioning unit is excellent, there’s a non-trivial chance of receiving a faulty one. It underscores the importance of purchasing from a retailer with a straightforward return policy.
How Does the Epson Perfection V39 II Photo Scanner Compare to the Alternatives?
The Epson Perfection V39 II Photo Scanner occupies a specific niche, but it’s important to understand what other options exist. Depending on your primary needs—be it books, high-volume documents, or simple text capture—a different type of scanner might be a better fit.
1. CZUR Shine Ultra Pro 24MP Document Scanner A3
- Design and Speed: Work with Windows XP/7/8/10/11 AND macOS 10.13 or later. Not compatible with Android and iOS. Designed for A3&A4(11.69*16.53 & 8.27*11.75 inch) document, any objects smaller than A3...
- Patented Flattening Curved Book Page Technology: Shine Ultra applies CZUR’s patented technology to flatten the curved surface after pixel transformation to flattening of the book page (Only suitable...
The CZUR Shine Ultra Pro is a completely different beast. It’s an overhead or “book” scanner that uses a camera to capture images from above. Its primary advantages are speed and the ability to handle materials that can’t be laid flat, like bound books and large A3 documents. Its auto-flatten and deskew software is brilliant for digitising book pages without damaging the spine. However, its effective DPI is much lower than the Epson’s 4800 optical resolution. If your main goal is archiving books, large-format artwork, or rapidly scanning loose documents, the CZUR is a superior choice. For the absolute highest-fidelity photo reproductions, the flatbed design of the Epson Perfection V39 II Photo Scanner still holds the edge.
2. ScanSnap iX1600 Wi-Fi Document Scanner
- Gives you even more time back - It can be hard work keeping a business in shape, and everyone can do with a bit more time back at the end of the day. The ScanSnap iX1600 was designed to help anyone...
- Flexible and intuitive - The iX1600's 4.3-inch LCD touchscreen delivers the future of scanning now. Instead of choosing what you want to do each time you scan a document, with one touch, the...
The ScanSnap iX1600 is a powerhouse built for one thing: productivity. As a dedicated document scanner with a robust automatic document feeder (ADF), it can chew through stacks of double-sided pages at incredible speeds. With Wi-Fi connectivity and a user-friendly touchscreen, it’s designed for a paperless office workflow. It’s the ideal choice for small businesses or anyone needing to digitise mountains of invoices, contracts, and reports. However, it is not a photo scanner. While you can feed photos through its rollers, you risk damaging delicate prints, and the image quality, while fine for documents, won’t match the nuanced, high-resolution output of the Epson Perfection V39 II Photo Scanner.
3. C-Pen Exam Reader
- Allows students with dyslexia, or other reading difficulties, to take written exams. Bolsters reading independence
- Totally portable, pocket-sized device reads text out aloud with an English human-like digital voice
The C-Pen Exam Reader represents a hyper-specialised niche in the scanning world. This is not a device for digitising images or full documents. Instead, it’s a “pen scanner” designed to scan lines of text and read them aloud, making it an invaluable tool for students with dyslexia or other reading difficulties, particularly in exam settings. It can also be used for capturing quotes from books or documents directly to a computer. It is a brilliant accessibility and study tool, but it serves a completely different purpose than the Epson. If you need to scan photos or entire A4 pages, the C-Pen is not the right tool for the job.
Our Final Verdict: Is the Epson Perfection V39 II Photo Scanner Worth It?
After extensive testing, we can confidently say that the Epson Perfection V39 II Photo Scanner is an exceptional tool for its intended audience. If you are a home user with shoeboxes full of photographic memories, an artist needing high-quality scans of flat media, or a home office worker with moderate document scanning needs, this device offers a superb blend of quality, convenience, and value. Its 4800 dpi resolution is more than capable of producing beautiful, detailed digital archives of your most precious prints, and its clever, space-saving design with single-cable operation is a triumph of user-friendly engineering.
While the dated software and the potential for quality control issues are valid concerns, they don’t overshadow the scanner’s core strengths. For the price, it’s difficult to find another scanner that delivers this level of photographic detail in such a compact and elegant package. It successfully bridges the gap between the past and the present, turning faded prints into vibrant, shareable digital memories. If you’re ready to finally tackle that digitisation project and preserve your history, the Epson Perfection V39 II Photo Scanner is a fantastic choice. You can check the latest price and availability to start your archiving journey.
Last update on 2025-11-10 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API