Plustek OpticSlim 1680: High-Speed Flatbed Scanner
Category: Personal and Home Use
Key Features
- High-speed scanning: 3 seconds for tabloid size documents at 300 dpi grayscale, 5 seconds in color mode
- One-key operation with 4 programmable buttons
- Intuitive dual-view interface with image adjustment options
- TWAIN & ICA compliant for wide software compatibility
- Supports Windows 7/8/10/11 and macOS X 10.12 to 15.x
Overview and First Impressions
The Plustek 1680 Image Express is a document scanner designed for users who need fast, efficient scanning of tabloid-sized documents. Its compact size and intuitive interface make it an appealing option for both home and office use.
Design and Build Quality
The Plustek 1680 boasts a sleek, modern design with a sturdy build. Measuring 16"D x 23"W x 3"H and weighing 9.5 pounds, it's compact enough to fit on most desks while still feeling substantial. The buttons are tactile and responsive, adding to the user-friendly experience.
Ease of Use
The scanner excels in ease of use. Its intuitive dual-view interface allows users to quickly check image adjustments and make changes as needed. The four programmable buttons simplify common tasks, allowing for one-touch scanning with pre-configured settings. The included TWAIN & ICA drivers ensure seamless compatibility with a wide range of software applications.
Performance Analysis
The Plustek 1680 delivers impressive performance, especially when considering its price point. It scans tabloid-sized documents in just 3 seconds at 300 dpi grayscale and 5 seconds in color mode. This speed makes it ideal for users who frequently scan large quantities of documents.
Software Features
While the scanner's primary strength lies in its hardware, the included software provides basic editing and file management tools. Users can adjust image settings like brightness, contrast, and resolution, as well as save scans in various formats (PDF, JPEG, etc.).
Use Cases
The Plustek 1680 is well-suited for a variety of use cases, including:
- Home users who need to scan documents, photos, and artwork.
- Small businesses that require efficient document scanning for daily operations.
- Students and educators who need to digitize notes, assignments, or research materials.
Connectivity and Accessories
The scanner connects via USB, ensuring compatibility with most computers. It comes bundled with the necessary drivers and software for Windows and macOS. While it doesn't include additional accessories like a document feeder, its compact size and manual feed mechanism are sufficient for basic scanning needs.
Pros and Cons Summary
- Pros:
- High-speed scanning
- Intuitive and user-friendly interface
- One-key operation with programmable buttons
- Good build quality and compact design
- Wide software compatibility
- Cons:
- Lacks a document feeder for automatic feeding
- Basic software features, may require additional software for advanced editing
Final Verdict and Recommendation
The Plustek 1680 Image Express is a solid choice for users who prioritize speed, ease of use, and affordability. Its impressive scanning performance, intuitive interface, and wide compatibility make it a valuable tool for both home and small business use. While the absence of a document feeder may be a drawback for some users, its compact design and manual feed mechanism are sufficient for basic scanning needs. Overall, the Plustek 1680 Image Express delivers excellent value for its price.
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