Just recently got the Flip-Pal and am really amazed. So much faster than using a large scanner and just as good. Doesn't have to be on a table - I can hold it in one hand while I scan - thumb holding the lid firmly in place. There is a marked corner on the glass face for lining up the photo.
Many reviewers have expressed concern about the bottom glass being exposed all the time and thus subject to fingerprints, dirt, and scratches. But good news - the bottom glass is NOT part of the scanning process, so nothing bad will happen if it is dirty or even scratched. It is there for one purpose only: to see through when using the Flip-Pal upside down. The only glass we need to keep clean is the one under the lid.
The SD card is very sturdy, so there are no issues moving it back and forth. (And there is a usb converter if you need it.) Most of my photos are old and therefore small, so I haven't tried out the Stitch function yet. Very very happy with the Flip-Pal.
Fyi, Windows Live Photo Gallery is a great default photo viewer and editor. It is a fast easy editor for Cropping and bringing old photos to life with Auto Adjust and sharpen (Adjust Detail), etc. The only feature missing is Straighten - I use Picasa for that. (It has been discontinued, but it is still possible to find a download file via google search.) Note, no matter which editor you use, when you are editing the .jpg file-type, pixels are lost each time it is edited and saved. It is advisable to do all the edits at one time if possible, so that too many pixels aren't lost in the Save process. (On the Flip-PaI I use 600dpi to scan, to have a pixel-rich image to start with. It is still fast, and you can lift the lid as soon as the image is complete, even if the scanner is still humming.)
Overall Rating: 9/10
What I was looking for: I was looking for a fast, convenient way to scan old family photos (both loose and photo albums -- over 1000 total).
What I considered:
1) Epson Perfection 2450 Photo. This is an older legal-size flatbed scanner. Quality is superb.
2) Flashpoint personal 4x6 photo scanner. Cheap, scans directly to SDCard. However, these scanners are prone to horrible banding problems that (for me) render the scan useless.
3) Portable scanner (around $230-250 price range). These seem ideal for high-volume scanning, and I couldn't find any reports of the banding issues as seen with the cheap personal scanners. However, I chose the Flip-Scan because I will not have to remove the old photos from the photo albums and (very likely) damage some of the photos.
How the Flip-Scan compares:
As I already mentioned, it far surpasses the personal photo scanners. I then compared the scans against the Epson. I took several scans at 600 dpi on both scanner than then compared the photos at the pixel level. Resolution and detail were similar. The Flip-Scan appears to add just a bit of sharpening. The Epson appears to have a more muted appearance, but after color correction, it is very close to the scanned photo. The Flip-Scan scans are brighter, but colors are just a bit off. Not bad at all and only the a very discerning eye will see a difference. My wife and daughter preferred the Flip-Scan. Another bonus is that the Flip-Scan isn't as sensitive to scratches and dust and shows significantly less of both.
However, the Flip-Scan introduces just a bit of "banding". This banding is actually very slight and really can only be seen at the pixel-level (remember, the photos were scanned at 600 dpi). Photos blown up to full-screen on my 1080p 46" television showed only the very slightest amount of "noise" due to this banding. Most people, myself included, would attribute it to the sharpening that the Flip-Scan applies (unless you have seen it at the pixel-level).
Here are some photos for your comparison (copy and paste to your browser URL):[...]
Overall, the scans are very, very good and more than suitable for archiving your photos!
Scan times:
A 600 dpi scan takes about 15 seconds. I find that I can scan about 100-120 photos per hour (this includes switching out photos).
Other notes:
- The software on the SDCard was not the newest version. Not really a problem as I don't plan on using it much anyways.
- The scans are not auto-cropped or rotated. However, if you have a bunch of photos of the same size, you could easily batch process this (shameless plug: IrfanView is free and the best image viewer I've come across).
- The scanner is pretty resilient to motion while scanning. Lightly bouncing/shaking the scanner while scanning a photo did not result in any distortion to the scan. However, this would not be true when scanning a photo that is bigger than the workspace.
Overall:
I love the fact that I can scan directly to the SDCard. This makes for an easy, convenient workflow. I can easily sit on the couch in front of the TV and scan away! The scan are more than acceptable and the scanner is reasonable fast. I spend about as much time switching out photos as I do actually performing the scans.
Does a great job -- seems to have a bit more depth of field than most portable scanners, which may related to fact that it incorporates some CCD-like elements to the CIS sensors. It scans pretty well through glass with good resolution, although everything is a bit better directly against the glass. A few times, I was worried that I might have shifted the scanner a little while scanning a photo album, but the image looked fine. Stitching using the software is very easy and comes out well. The software is also pretty convenient for rotation, although the rotated image is a bit smaller than the original in pixel density for some reason. I will probably convert to tiff for rotating and cropping so avoid the jpg resaving losses. It took 6 scans to do a 8 x 10 and two scans to do a 5 x 7. I did these while watching the Olympics.
I took off a star however, as it is not clear to me how to use the StoryScan feature. Also, there may be a quality control issue. The first one I bought was not in a new condition, but had fingerprints all over it, and was missing the SD card, the USB adapter and the instructions. Worse of all, it had a 2 x 1 mm black debris on the inside of the scanner glass such that every scan showed this black mark in the middle of the photo. Thankfully, Amazon has a great return policy. They suggested I return it as defective/not new, and then reorder it, and the second one that I got was fine.
I just got this scanner, and here are my initial impressions. It seems to do the basic scanning job right out of the box. As a highly portable scanner, its best use is probably to scan old prints or occasional items, which you would otherwise would not have time or opportunity to scan. Afterwards, you may need to do some post processing on the computer (stitch, organize/rename, crop, maybe do some enhahcements to the scanned images). By the way, you do not have to buy a dedicated (and relatively expensive) case sold separately for this scanner. Instead, consider this highly rated sleeve: HP WV594AA 10.2 Inch Mini Sleeve (or maybe HP Mini Sleeve), both available at Amazon and will save you about $20. Both will acommodate your Flip-Pal scanner nicely and provide good protection. To summarize pros and cans for Flip-Pal after my initial evaluation:
Pros:
Highly portable, easy to use scanner, which does a decent scanning job without access to computer, even while talking to someone or doing something else.
If this sounds good enough for you, go for it!
Cons:
1) Do not expect scans to be of exceptional quality (even at 600 dpi) that can be made using high-end scanners. I noticed some loss in details in highlights, but it is not too bad, especially if you have no alternative. If you want to make copies that would retain nearly 100% details of the originals, opt for a high-end scanner (that would probably require a computer and power) or high-end DSLR camera and tripod (you may want to use a flash with cross-polarization to avoid any reflections or light scatter).
2) You may have to figure out how to organize and annotate your scans. Especially if you are going to make hundreds or thousands of them. You may need to keep handwritten records (names, dates and locations of photos, corresponding to scan names) or make voice recordings.
3) You can't view scans in details until you have an access to computer or a reader or projector to enlarge the image (I tried to view using an LCD screen of DSLR camera, and it did not work). It is quite possible that some of the scans will have at least some defects (e.g. hot spot reflections or light scattering), but at least you can see a thumbnail image on the scanner so you know it generally worked.
Overall, it is a nice and unique product with this functionality (compared to scanning "wands", which are more portable but tricker to use, and results would not necessarily be better). But I only give Flip-Pal 4 stars because I would sometimes prefer highest qiality of scan jobs and anticipate I would have to keep handwritten records and quite a bit of post-processing work to organize and annotate images. But I understand, that it is a challenge to achieve all these requirements at this price range.
Something to consider and experiment: a lineraly polarized film between the scanner window and object being scanned to minimize reflections (I have not tried this yet). These reflections are usually not a big problem, but could be a real issue if an object is covered with transparent film or varnish or has textured finish. You may want to read on cross-polarization technique used to make museum-quality reproductions. With Flip-Pal scanner, you would use just a single polarizing film sheet (between your light source and detector, which are essentially combined in the scanner). A linear polarizer by the foot (product # PF006) can be purchased at polarization.com (it will cost you $30 plus shipping). I tried it for photography, and results were great.
UPDATE - after my first "field" use of this scanner when I wanted to scan old family archives (hundreds of photos) in just a few days. I had both Flip-Pal and high-end DSLR (Nikon D7000 with a 16-85mm zoom lens and polarizer, on tripod). Comparing the results side by side on the computer, the quality of images taken with a DSLR was slightly better (Flip-Pal produced a slight loss of details in highlights, only noticable when viewed at 100% magnification). The original batteries on Flip-Pal were depleted after only 50 or so scans, but rechargable batteries lasted longer (so just have extra batteries on hand). Flip-Pal was easy to use for 4x6 photographs, but took a little learning for overlapping scans to later process with the stitching software (which seemed to work well). I showed to someone how to use Flip-Pal, and he did the scanning succesfully after paying attention not to to move the photographs during the scans accidentally. However, I personally preferred the digital camera. The main reason for the choice of DSLR over Flip-Pal was the speed. It was significantly faster to auto focus and take a picture, compared to scanning for ~30s, but the difference and convenience of DSLR was especially pronounced for larger prints. I just needed to move my tripod or adjust the camera angle and focal length to quickly produce full-size images, the quality of which I could immediately verify on the LCD screen after zooming in. The images from Flip-Pal required much longer time to obtain and later needed to be stitched. The other advantage of DSLR was potentially higher resolution. For very small photographs (such as wallet size or smaller) I still was able to take the picture spanning nearly the entire frame in macro mode, unlike Flip-Pal, which scanned the picture at actual size. Also, I read that Flip-Pal stitching software will result in a reduced resolution if the picture to be scanned in portions is larger than certain size, but a digital camera is capable of reproducing all the details of very large photos, such as a poster size. Overall, Flip-Pal worked as advertised (and would be invaluable in the absence of a sohisticated camera or to scan just a few prints on the go). Again, make sure to have at least one set of spare 4 AA-type rechargable batteries and a charger to scan hundreds of prints at a time.
I purchased the Flip-Pal Mobile Scanner to help with a photo scanning project for my grandparents' funeral. And while I was familiar with the product previously I was amazed at how simple it made scanning photos. I have yet to try the stitching option for photos but for smaller photos the one touch button scanning was super fast. I had recently purchased a new printer previous to buying this and it was taking forever. I love also that it gives you a preview of the photo. And while the preview is so small you cannot see definition of the photo it makes it nice to tell if you have the photo at least straight. I also have a wand style scanner but the Flip-Pal beats it hands down!
The fact that it came with the USD card with software loaded on the card was a great bonus as well. My only wish was it came with the protective carry case for a cheaper price. I recommend buying it separate on Amazon rather than buying the kit that contains the scanner and carry case. It would also be nice if the scanner came with an option to plug it in for power rather than just batteries. So word to the wise, carry extra batteries with you just in case. I was lucky enough to be at home where I had extras on hand. In its defense, though, the scanner did come with batteries and they did seem to last through most of what became an entire day of scanning.
If you are looking for a fast portable little scanner you cannot beat the Flip-Pal Mobile Scanner.
Feature Product
- The Flip-Pal mobile scanner is the world's original scanner for photos, large and fragile documents, and cherished memorabilia that does not require a computer to operate. Battery powered and stores files stored on an SD card.
- Transform images into endearing stories. StoryScans software combines the recorded voice of the storyteller and the scan into a single file that is both small and High Definition. *Download and activation may be required.
- Keep your memories safe using patented flip-and-scan technology. Fragile documents are treated safely on the flatbed rather than fed through a sheet feeder. Take the lid off, flip the scanner over, and use the window to frame the original.
- All sizes, small to very large, can be scanned. The included EasyStitch software automatically reassembles multiple scans of larger originals such as portraits, art, documents, and quilts. Small objects such as coins and stamps have high detail.
- Quick and easy operation. Just 7 seconds to scan 4 x 6" at 300 dpi. Simply turn the power on and press the green scan button. The software is stored on the SD card. Save hours of removing photos from their album. Do your first scan in minutes after opening the box
Description
The Flip-Pal mobile scanner enables you to effortlessly collect precious photos, important documents, fragile records of personal and family history, detailed coins, jewelry, medals, hand-drawn art, and other keepsakes. Now they can be safely stored digitally rather than scattered, lost or unable to be found. Then create your story and connect with family and friends. Take advantage of the patented flip-and-scan technology to scan photos while still in the album or frame, treating fragile personal records gently. The Easy Stitch software quickly and automatically reassembles multiple scans into their larger original. Unlike alternative solutions that don't have the combination of mobility, simplicity, accuracy, versatility, and keeping the original safe, the Flip-Pal mobile scanner is compact, simple to operate, has high resolution, quick scan time, battery power, SD memory, and a computer is not required to scan. When it really matters, like your children's early years of precious memories, preparing for natural disaster, creating a high quality scrapbook, or collecting one-of-a-kind fragile documents for your family history, Flip-Pal produces the accurate image quality you will need in the future. With 600 and 300 dpi resolutions and colors and textures that are true to original, your important documents and images are safeguarded forever in digital format, protected from loss from disasters and misfortune.
Easy to use, with good quality reproduction. Two design issues, though. One, either the power button or the scan button should be moved away from each other. It is too easy to accidentally push the off button when you mean to push the scan button. Two, I know this is meant to be portable, which is great, but it would be nice to have the option to plug it into an outlet to save on batteries. I have a ton of photos that are out of albums so I want to just sit at the table and scan but it uses batteries fairly quickly.
Used this to make a digital copy of a Creative Memories style 12"x12" scrapbook. It took a couple practice runs to get the hang of it, but once I go t the hang of it, everything went smoothly, somewhat tediously, but smoothly. At 4 scans per page, it took a while, but it was well worth the trouble for the quality of the final output. The stitching logic it uses to create a single image per page is really phenomenal. I didn't see any artifacts. Every page looked like it had been scanned in a single pass. Highly recommended.
This works great for scanning photos when you are on the go. Greatly surprised with how easy it is to stitch several pictures together into one photo.
Updated Review: I have scanned lots and lots of photos for my genealogy family tree. I love being able to take this on trips to see family members or to visit research facilities or churches. Many photos are old and delicate so I love not having to run photos through anything. I can place the scanner directly on the photo and scan without harming the photo.
I wish I could buy a larger scanner - 5 x 7 or 8 x 10 to save on time having to scan the same photo numerous times. I also wish I could purchase a higher quality scanner. While the current product is great, I hope to see a new and improved version in the future.
While I can easily scan several times and stitch the photos together fairly easily. It takes time to scan the photo several times. I have been disappointed on a few occasions to return and find out I did not overlap the photo very well and now have to make a lengthy trip back to get a new scan. Or sometimes a return trip may not be possible.
I have brought this scanner on the road with me and love that it is light and enjoy the carrying case for it.
Make sure to use the scanner cover to prevent light from getting to the photo. I have held the photo on the scanner with my hand and then found that I can see a shadow of my hand on the photo. Plus the light in the room negatively affects the photo. If you need to take the cover off and scan the photo face down, make sure to put something over the scanner viewer as the light will get to the photo and cause the scan to be of poor quality. I have put a black piece of construction paper on the back of it once I have the scanner placed on the photo.
What a great scanner! The first day I scanned 135 photos in less than three hours...and was taking my time. And all while sitting at my kitchen table! The scan is exactly the same as the original photo. All I've done so far is scan. I'm not sure I'll do anything else with it. Stitching is probably a bit beyond me. (You're looking at an 86 year old Old Lady here! Two small complaints: The enclosed batteries died after about 12 scans. The new ones I had are still fine, so it must have been the time they were in the camera while in storage. Also, I understand the reason for the type of on/off switch, but it's a nail breaker. I now use a strong paper clip to push the switch on or off. A push button there also would be a big improvement. You still get five stars!
Wow. I love this thing!! It works great - just as advertised. It is fast and the image quality is great. It is SO handy when visiting friends or relatives who have the old printed pictures - or when visiting newspaper archives or libraries. Genealogist NEED one of these. You don't have to use someone else's computer to scan or you don't need to borrow the pictures to take home and scan. I scanned about 50 pictures in a matter of minutes while carrying on a conversation with my cousin recently.
The "stitching" technology is a bit slow, but it "stitches" the picture together amazingly well. I would only "stitch" when absolutely necessary or when you have time to "stitch" between doing other things.
Overall, an OUTSTANDING device. I am SO glad I purchased this!!
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