Canon CanoScan Lide 300 vs Canon CanoScan Lide 400: Overview of expert opinions

The Canon CanoScan Lide 400 is better for users who require high-quality scans with precise details. Its maximum resolution of 4800 x 4800 dpi captures even the smallest details, making it ideal for scanning high-quality photos, artwork, and tasks that require high levels of detail.

It is also faster in terms of scanning speed, especially for photos, and offers adjustable settings to customize the speed. The Lide 400 also has faster data transfer speeds and more versatile connectivity options, making it suitable for users who value these features. It is also better for scanning photos and text documents, with the ability to convert scanned text into editable text.

Additionally, it has a higher resolution, faster scanning speed for snapshot-size photos, and more advanced features and customization options compared to the Lide 300. However, it is only compatible with macOS versions 10. 13 - 10. 15.

On the other hand, the Canon CanoScan Lide 300 is more suitable for basic scanning needs. While its resolution of 2400 x 2400 dpi is still decent and can produce clear and readable scans of documents, it may not be as suitable for tasks that require high levels of detail.

It is more affordable and simpler in terms of connectivity, using a USB 2. 0 connection and allowing users to save scans to a computer folder for remote access. It is better for scanning larger documents up to 11. 7 inches in length and is compatible with Linux and macOS operating systems.

It is also a suitable option for those who mainly deal with A4 size photos and don't require the faster scanning speed or advanced features of the Lide 400.

In summary, the Canon CanoScan Lide 400 is better for users who prioritize high-resolution scans, faster scanning speeds, versatile connectivity options, and the ability to convert scanned text into editable text. It is also better for photo scanning in specific use cases where users primarily work with standard-sized photos, frequently scan smaller-sized photos, require more control over scanning results, prioritize capturing fine details and producing sharp, high-quality scans, and need to scan multiple photos in a single scan.

On the other hand, the Canon CanoScan Lide 300 is better for users who prioritize affordability, simplicity, scanning larger documents, and compatibility with Linux and macOS operating systems.

Table of contents (click on an item)

Resolution
The Canon CanoScan Lide 400 is ideal for users who need high-quality scans with precise details, while the Lide 300 is more suitable for basic scanning needs.
Click to jump to the Resolution comparison
Speed
The Canon CanoScan Lide 400 is generally faster in terms of scanning speed compared to the Canon CanoScan Lide 300, making it a better choice for users who prioritize faster scanning times, particularly for photos.
Click to jump to the Speed comparison
Connectivity
The Canon CanoScan Lide 300 is more affordable and simple in connectivity, while the Canon CanoScan Lide 400 offers faster data transfer speeds and more versatile connectivity options.
Click to jump to the Connectivity comparison
Document scanning
The Canon CanoScan Lide 300 is better for scanning larger documents, while the Canon CanoScan Lide 400 is better for scanning photos and text documents with the ability to convert scanned text into editable text.
Click to jump to the Document scanning comparison
Photo scanning
The Canon CanoScan Lide 400 is the better option for photo scanning in various use cases, offering advantages in maximum photo size, scanning speed, advanced features, customization options, color reproduction, resolution, and the ability to scan multiple photos in a single scan.
Click to jump to the Photo scanning comparison
Compatibility
The Canon CanoScan Lide 300 is recommended for Linux and macOS users, while the Lide 400 is better for macOS users within a specific version range, and both scanners offer compatibility with a range of software programs.
Click to jump to the Compatibility comparison
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Resolution
Speed
Connectivity
Document scanning
Photo scanning
Compatibility
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Resolution

The Canon CanoScan Lide 400 is better for users who require high-quality scans with precise details. With its maximum resolution of 4800 x 4800 dpi, it can capture even the smallest details, resulting in sharper and more vibrant scanned images. This makes it ideal for scanning high-quality photos, artwork, and other tasks that require high levels of detail.

On the other hand, the Canon CanoScan Lide 300 is more suitable for basic scanning needs. While its resolution of 2400 x 2400 dpi is still decent and can produce clear and readable scans of documents, it may not be as suitable for tasks that require high levels of detail, such as scanning high-quality photos or artwork.

In summary, the Canon CanoScan Lide 400 is better for users who prioritize high-resolution scans and want to ensure the best possible quality for their scanned images and documents. The Lide 300, on the other hand, is a more budget-friendly option that can still provide satisfactory results for everyday scanning needs.

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Speed

Based on the expert reviews, the Canon CanoScan Lide 400 is generally better in terms of scanning speed compared to the Canon CanoScan Lide 300. The Lide 400 offers faster scanning times for both photos and documents. It takes around 4 seconds per snapshot-size photo and 8 seconds per letter-size page at 300dpi, while the Lide 300 takes approximately 5 seconds per 4-by-6-inch photo and 10 seconds per 8.

5-by-11-inch page.

For users who frequently scan photos, the Lide 400 would be a better choice as it is slightly faster when scanning photos. On the other hand, for users who primarily scan documents, the Lide 400 is also faster, but the difference may not be as significant.

Additionally, the Lide 400 offers adjustable settings that can be tweaked to increase or decrease the scanning speed, allowing users to customize the speed based on their needs. The Lide 300, on the other hand, does not have any adjustable settings or features that can affect the scanning speed.

Both scanners have minimal warm-up times and are ready to scan almost immediately after turning them on. They also do not have an automatic document feeder (ADF), so the scanning speed will be the same whether scanning one document at a time or multiple documents.

Overall, the Canon CanoScan Lide 400 is better for users who prioritize faster scanning speeds, especially for photos. However, it's important to consider other factors such as resolution, image quality, and additional features before making a final decision.

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Connectivity

Based on the expert reviews, the Canon CanoScan Lide 300 is better for users who prioritize affordability and simplicity in connectivity. It uses a USB 2. 0 connection, which is an older standard but still reliable for data transfer. It does not have any advanced connectivity options such as Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, but it allows users to save scans to a computer folder that can be synced with a cloud storage service for remote access.

This makes it suitable for users who primarily need to scan and store documents on their computer.

On the other hand, the Canon CanoScan Lide 400 is better for users who value faster data transfer speeds and more versatile connectivity options. It uses a USB Type-C connection, which is a newer and faster standard compared to USB 2. 0. Additionally, the USB Type-C cable not only enables data transfer but also serves as a power supply for the scanner, eliminating the need for an additional power source.

While it also lacks Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity, it offers the same ability to save scans to a computer folder that can be synced with a cloud storage service. The CanoScan Lide 400 is ideal for users who require faster data transfer speeds and the convenience of a single cable for both power and data transfer.

In summary, the Canon CanoScan Lide 300 is better for users who prioritize affordability and simplicity, while the Canon CanoScan Lide 400 is better for users who value faster data transfer speeds and more versatile connectivity options. Both scanners allow for easy access and sharing of scanned documents through cloud storage services.

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Document scanning

Based on the expert reviews, the Canon CanoScan Lide 300 is better for scanning larger documents up to 11. 7 inches in length, making it suitable for legal documents and oversized receipts. It can also handle business cards and standard letter-sized documents. However, it may not have advanced features for scanning and converting text documents.

On the other hand, the Canon CanoScan Lide 400 is better for scanning photos and text documents. It has the capability to convert scanned text into editable text, making it ideal for scanning letters and contracts. It can also handle photos, including color and black and white images.

It can handle documents up to 8. 5 x 11. 7 inches in size, similar to the Lide 300.

Both scanners lack an automatic document feeder (ADF), requiring manual scanning of each page. This may be time-consuming and inconvenient for large volumes of documents. However, both scanners offer high-resolution scanning capabilities, compact designs, and compatibility with various operating systems.

In summary, the Canon CanoScan Lide 300 is better for scanning larger documents, while the Canon CanoScan Lide 400 is better for scanning photos and text documents, with the ability to convert scanned text into editable text. The choice between the two scanners depends on the specific needs and preferences of the user.

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Photo scanning

Based on the expert reviews, the Canon CanoScan Lide 400 is better for photo scanning in several specific use cases. It has a slight advantage in terms of maximum photo size, as it can scan up to letter-size, accommodating standard-sized photos as well as smaller sizes like 4x6 inches or 5x7 inches.

Additionally, the Lide 400 has a faster scanning speed for snapshot-size photos, making it beneficial for users who frequently scan smaller-sized photos.

The Lide 400 also offers more advanced features and customization options compared to the Lide 300. It utilizes the ScanGear software, allowing users to make adjustments before scanning and giving them control over the final results. The Lide 400's 24-bit color range can capture almost 17 million colors, ensuring vibrant and accurate color reproduction for color photos.

It can also maintain the subtle shades and details of black and white photos. Furthermore, the Lide 400's ability to scan directly into software like Photoshop can yield high-quality results for glossy photos, especially when using ICC profiles for accurate color representation.

In terms of resolution, the Lide 400 has a higher resolution of 4800 x 4800 dpi compared to the Lide 300's resolution of 2400 x 2400 dpi. This higher resolution allows for better image reproduction, the ability to enlarge and crop images without losing quality, and sharper overall images.

Both the Lide 300 and Lide 400 have similar scanning speeds for 4-by-6-inch photos, with the Lide 300 rated at 5 seconds per photo and the Lide 400 consistently scanning photos at 4 to 5 seconds each. However, the actual scanning speed may vary depending on factors such as photo size, resolution, and settings chosen.

Both scanners also have the ability to automatically detect and separate multiple photos in a single scan, making them convenient options for organizing and digitizing photo collections.

In summary, the Canon CanoScan Lide 400 is better for photo scanning in use cases where users primarily work with standard-sized photos, frequently scan smaller-sized photos, require more control over scanning results, prioritize capturing fine details and producing sharp, high-quality scans, and need to scan multiple photos in a single scan.

However, the Canon CanoScan Lide 300 is still a suitable option for those who mainly deal with A4 size photos and don't require the faster scanning speed or advanced features of the Lide 400.

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Compatibility

Based on the expert reviews, the Canon CanoScan Lide 300 is better for compatibility with Linux and macOS operating systems. If you are a Linux or macOS user, this scanner would be the better option for you. On the other hand, the Canon CanoScan Lide 400 is only compatible with macOS versions 10.

13 - 10. 15. Therefore, if you are a macOS user within this specific range, the Lide 400 would be the better option for you.

In terms of software compatibility, both scanners are compatible with a range of software programs. The CanoScan Lide 300 comes with the ScanGear software, which is TWAIN-compliant and can be used with many other TWAIN-ready third-party programs, including Microsoft Word and PowerPoint, Adobe Acrobat, Adobe Photoshop, and other image-editing and -enhancing applications.

Additionally, the scanner includes Auto Scan and IJ Scan utilities, which are compatible with Linux, macOS, and Windows operating systems.

The CanoScan Lide 400 also comes bundled with Canon's IJ Scan Utility, which allows users to configure and initiate scanning operations. In addition to this utility, the Lide 400 is compatible with popular scanning software such as Adobe Acrobat, VueScan, and SilverFast, offering additional features and functionalities for scanning and editing documents and photos.

Overall, both scanners offer compatibility with a range of software programs, including TWAIN-compliant applications, Adobe Acrobat, and other popular scanning software. However, the specific software compatibility may vary, so it's important to check the manufacturer's website or the software's documentation for the most accurate information.

In summary, the Canon CanoScan Lide 300 is better for Linux and macOS users, while the Lide 400 is better for macOS users within the specific version range. Both scanners are compatible with a range of software programs, but it's important to check the manufacturer's information for specific compatibility details.

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Experts recommend Canon CanoScan Lide 400 more than Canon CanoScan Lide 300

As of 1 Nov 2024, experts prefer Canon CanoScan Lide 400 over Canon CanoScan Lide 300, but both Photo Scanners have solid expert endorsements.

As per this month's meta ranking, Canon CanoScan Lide 400 received 4 recommendations: from PCMag (5 Oct 2024), Lifewire (27 Feb 2024) PCreview (5 Jan 2023) and 1 other. By contrast, Canon CanoScan Lide 300 received only 2 recommendations from PCMag (5 Oct 2024) and PC Guide (12 Jun 2024).

Rank Change Price Photo Scanner
PCMag
Lifewire
PCreview
Spy
Creative Bloq
10Beasts
Popular Mechanics
PC Guide
TechRadar
Digital Camera World
5
- $78
Canon CanoScan Lide 400
The Canon CanoScan Lide 400 is a high-resolution scanner with fast scanning speeds and versatile capabilities, making it ideal for users who need detailed and sharp scans of photos, documents, and film.
1
3
6
-
-
-
2
-
-
-
10
- $67
Canon CanoScan Lide 300
The Canon CanoScan Lide 300 is a versatile and affordable scanner suitable for personal use, small businesses, and individuals who need to scan photos, documents, and film at a high resolution, with a maximum resolution of 2400 x 2400 dpi and a scanning speed of 10 seconds per 8.5-by-11-inch page and 5 seconds per 4-by-6-inch photo.
3
-
-
-
-
-
-
2
-
-

Curious to see this month's entire Flatbed & Photo Scanners ranking? It's here

About our ranking methodology

Endorsement summary:

  • On 5 Oct 2024 PCMag ranked Canon CanoScan Lide 400 as #1 and Canon CanoScan Lide 300 as #3
    Rank Photo Scanner Comment
    #1 out of 7 Canon CanoScan Lide 400
    Best Overall Flatbed Photo and Document Scanner / Editors' Choice
    ... ... ...
    #3 out of 7 Canon CanoScan Lide 300
    Best Flatbed Photo Scanner for the Very Tightest Budgets
    ... ... ...
  • On 12 Jun 2024 PC Guide ranked Canon CanoScan Lide 300 as #2
    Rank Photo Scanner Comment
    ... ... ...
    #2 out of 5 Canon CanoScan Lide 300
    Best Budget Photo Scanner
    ... ... ...
  • On 27 Feb 2024 Lifewire ranked Canon CanoScan Lide 400 as #3
    Rank Photo Scanner Comment
    ... ... ...
    #3 out of 5 Canon CanoScan Lide 400
    Best Budget
    ... ... ...
  • On 5 Jan 2023 PCreview ranked Canon CanoScan Lide 400 as #6
    Rank Photo Scanner Comment
    ... ... ...
    #6 out of 9 Canon CanoScan Lide 400
    Elegant, Powerful, and Slim High-End Scanner
    ... ... ...
  • On 2 Dec 2023 Popular Mechanics ranked Canon CanoScan Lide 400 as #2
    Rank Photo Scanner Comment
    ... ... ...
    #2 out of 7 Canon CanoScan Lide 400
    Best Value
    ... ... ...

After counting and adding up the 70 expert endorsements of the November rankings, Canon CanoScan Lide 400 outranks Canon CanoScan Lide 300. This is not to say that Canon CanoScan Lide 300 is a bad option. Like Canon CanoScan Lide 400, it is recommended by experts, but less.

MetaRanking Common points from expert reviews summarized.
As can be seen below, Canon CanoScan Lide 400 outranks Canon CanoScan Lide 300 by 5 positions. This indicates that, as of 1 Nov 2024, Canon CanoScan Lide 400 is more critically acclaimed than Canon CanoScan Lide 300.
Rank Change Price Photo Scanner
PCMag
Lifewire
PCreview
Spy
Creative Bloq
10Beasts
Popular Mechanics
PC Guide
TechRadar
Digital Camera World
1
- $500
Epson FastFoto FF-680W
The Epson FastFoto FF-680W is a high-quality scanner that can quickly and efficiently digitize old photos and documents with a resolution of up to 1200 dpi and a speed of up to 45 pages per minute.
4
-
1
1
3
3
1
-
1
3
2
- $186
Plustek ePhoto Z300
The Plustek ePhoto Z300 is a fast and efficient scanner ideal for individuals or small businesses that need to scan a variety of documents and photos, with a maximum optical resolution of 600 dpi and compatibility with both Mac and PC operating systems.
7
-
3
4
2
2
6
3
-
6
3
- $1299
Epson Perfection V850 Pro
The Epson Perfection V850 Pro is a high-end scanner designed for professional photographers and graphic designers who require high-quality scans and color accuracy, with a maximum optical resolution of 6400 dpi and a range of software options.
-
-
8
7
4
-
4
1
5
7
4
- $313
Epson Perfection V600
The Epson Perfection V600 is a high-quality scanner that is ideal for photographers, artists, and anyone who needs high-quality scans of photos, documents, and film.
-
-
9
2
1
-
3
-
3
4
Show all rows
Expert Reviews There are people on the Internet whose job is to review products. Below are their opinions.

Expert reviews [3]

82
Total expert reviews: 3
  • with a score: 2
  • without a score: 1
Highest score by Gadget Review
85
Average score based on 3 reviews
82
Lowest score by PCMag
80

Score distribution:

80-100
60-80
40-60
20-40
0-20
80
Canon CanoScan LiDE 300 Review
The Canon CanoScan LiDE 300 is an entry-level flatbed scanner designed for light document scanning and digitizing photographs in homes, home offices, and small offices. It is a capable machine for light-duty scanning tasks, but for an extra $20, the Canon CanoScan LiDE 400 offers higher resolution, faster scans, and the ability to stand upright to save desk space.
+ pros
  • Small and lightweight design.
  • Comes with software that allows for customization of scans.
  • Lid can be adjusted to hold thicker items.
  • Good value for occasional use.
- cons
  • Half the resolution of other models in its price range.
  • No automatic document feeder, making it slow for bulk scanning.
  • OCR accuracy could be improved.
  • No networking or mobile connectivity options.
85
Canon CanoScan Lide 300 Review
The Canon CanoScan Lide 300 is a simple and budget-friendly flatbed scanner that provides good image quality for occasional document and photo scanning needs. It is easy to use with only four buttons and comes bundled with useful software.
+ pros
  • Good image quality for the price, with a high DPI resolution of 2400x2400.
  • Braindead easy to use, with only four buttons and a USB 2.0.
  • Nice selection of bundled software, including Auto Scan utility and IJ Scan utility.
- cons
  • Lack of mobile connectivity, meaning it cannot be used with mobile devices.
  • No automatic feeder, requiring users to manually slide in each sheet to be scanned.
Show all 3 reviews

Expert reviews [3]

82
Total expert reviews: 3
  • with a score: 2
  • without a score: 1
Highest score by fakespot.com
84
Average score based on 3 reviews
82
Lowest score by PCMag
80

Score distribution:

80-100
60-80
40-60
20-40
0-20
80
The Canon CanoScan LiDE 400 is a flatbed photo scanner that excels at scanning text documents and converting them into editable text. With its improved software and features, it surpasses its predecessor, the CanoScan LiDE 220, and is a top choice for an entry-level flatbed photo scanner.
+ pros
  • The Canon CanoScan LiDE 400 has a space-saving design and is lightweight, making it easy to fit on a desk.
  • The LiDE 400 has improved software that is faster and more accurate, making it better at converting scanned text to editable text.
  • The scanner comes with a software bundle that includes a variety of utilities for different scanning scenarios, providing versatility and control.
  • The LiDE 400 offers good photo scanning quality, with accurate colors and impressive detail.
  • The scanner has a kickstand feature that allows it to be held upright, saving desk space.
- cons
  • The LiDE 400 does not have wireless or wired networking capabilities, limiting its mobile and remote scanning features.
  • The scanner lacks an automatic document feeder (ADF), making it less suitable for scanning multipage text documents.
  • The OCR accuracy of the LiDE 400 is not stellar, although it is adequate for most home and office settings.
84
From the author's perspective, the new scanner operates well with excellent picture quality and superior Canon software. However, there are some drawbacks such as poor user interface and compatibility issues with certain operating systems.
+ pros
  • The new scanner operates well and scans quickly with excellent picture quality.
  • The Canon software is superior to the competition and scans quietly.
  • The scanner is compact and highly recommended.
  • The package labeling is clear and instructive.
  • The scanner is compatible with Mac laptops and is plug and play.
- cons
  • The hardware is of poor quality and cannot be fixed.
  • The user interface is poor and clumsy to use.
  • The color scans are of low quality.
  • Canon does not make scanners for Windows 10 and older models are not supported.
  • The drivers for this scanner are not compatible with Windows 10 Home.
Show all 3 reviews
From Seller:
  • Scanner type: Document
  • Connectivity technology: USB
  • With Auto Scan Mode, the scanner automatically detects what you're scanning
  • Digitize documents and images
  • Read more
From Seller:
  • Enjoy high speed scanning in as fast as 8 seconds, with the included USB Type-C cable. With USB Type-C the Cano scan lied 400 has one cable for data and power.
  • Preserve detailed photos and images thanks to 4800 x 4800 dpi resolution, and with image enhancements, such as color restore and dust removal, Your photos will continue to look great.
  • Read more

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