Epson Perfection V39 vs V39II: Which Scanner Delivers Exceptional Results?

The Epson Perfection V39 and V39ii are two highly acclaimed flatbed scanners that have earned a reputation for delivering exceptional scanning capabilities. However, with their similar names and features, it can be challenging to determine which scanner is the better choice for your specific needs. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key differences between the Epson Perfection V39 and V39ii, providing you with the insights you need to make an informed decision.

Resolution and Image Quality

The Epson Perfection V39 boasts a resolution of 4800 x 9600 dpi, while the V39ii offers a slightly higher resolution of 4800 x 12800 dpi. In practical terms, this means that the V39ii can capture finer details and produce sharper images, especially when scanning high-resolution photographs or documents.

Scanning Speed

The Epson Perfection V39 offers a scanning speed of approximately 15 seconds for a 4 x 6-inch photo at 300 dpi. The V39ii, on the other hand, boasts a faster scanning speed of around 10 seconds for the same photo size and resolution. This difference in speed can be significant if you frequently scan large volumes of documents or photos.

Optical Density Range

The optical density range, measured in Dmax, indicates the scanner’s ability to capture a wide range of tones from dark shadows to bright highlights. The Epson Perfection V39 has a Dmax of 3.4, while the V39ii has a slightly higher Dmax of 3.8. This means that the V39ii is better equipped to reproduce subtle gradations and prevent unwanted shadows or highlights.

Software and Features

Both the Epson Perfection V39 and V39ii come bundled with Epson’s proprietary scanning software, which offers a range of features to enhance your scanning experience. These features include:

• Automatic document feeder (ADF): For convenient scanning of multiple pages
• Image correction tools: To adjust brightness, contrast, and color balance
• OCR (Optical Character Recognition): For converting scanned documents into editable text

Connectivity

The Epson Perfection V39 and V39ii both offer USB connectivity, allowing you to connect them directly to your computer. However, the V39ii also includes Wi-Fi connectivity, which provides the convenience of wireless scanning from your mobile devices or tablets.

Price and Value

The Epson Perfection V39 is typically priced slightly lower than the V39ii. However, the V39ii offers several notable upgrades, including a higher resolution, faster scanning speed, and Wi-Fi connectivity. Therefore, the V39ii represents a better value for those who prioritize image quality, speed, and wireless capabilities.

The Verdict: Which Scanner is Right for You?

The Epson Perfection V39 and V39ii are both excellent scanners, but they cater to slightly different needs. If you prioritize image quality and fast scanning speeds, the V39ii is the clear choice. However, if you’re on a budget or don’t require the most advanced features, the V39 offers a solid balance of performance and affordability.

Top Questions Asked

Q1: What is the maximum scanning size for both scanners?
A: Both the Epson Perfection V39 and V39ii can scan documents and photos up to 8.5 x 11.7 inches.

Q2: Do these scanners support double-sided scanning?
A: No, neither the Epson Perfection V39 nor the V39ii supports double-sided scanning.

Q3: Can I use these scanners to scan film negatives and slides?
A: No, both scanners are designed for scanning flat documents and photos only.

Q4: What is the difference between Dmax and resolution?
A: Resolution refers to the number of pixels per inch, while Dmax measures the scanner’s ability to capture a range of tones. A higher Dmax results in more accurate and detailed images.

Q5: Can I use third-party scanning software with these scanners?
A: Yes, both scanners are compatible with a variety of third-party scanning software, including VueScan and SilverFast.