18 Best Free Scanning Software For Mac in 2024

What are the advantages of using the best free scanner software for Mac? Here is everything you need to know about it.

Humble accessibility and steadfast functions have contributed to making scanning technology burgeon for over a decade. It enables the option to scan PDFs, documents, and images in an electronic format that promises better storage, security, and – No paper.

There are different top free scanning software available in the market, complementing different documents, formats, and multiple other functions that you may enjoy. These top scanner apps for Mac allow you to scan any form of document as you want with ease. You will find both open-source and other tools with advanced features of scanning. We have collected the best free scanning software for Mac that leads a smooth way out to get the scanning done and offers ample features.

Why Use Scanning Software?

The simplest of reasons have made scanning technology be counted on by many. Scanning programs are easily available, provide quick access, save time, and avoid the hassle.

Here are some of the attractive perks of using the scanner programs for Mac:

• This free scanning software for Mac allows you to scan documents and images into electronic documents.
• You can store the scanned documents without too much hassle.
• Almost every scanner software for Mac enables easy sharing.
• Allows editing of the texts and images with ease.
• These tools are free to use and save you time.

Now, without beating the bushes, let’s move on to our top best scanning software for Mac 2024 below and then have a look at the rest.

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Top Best Scanner App for Mac (2024)

Here are the top 5 free Mac scanner software that offers competitive and helpful features to scan any form of a document very easily:

What Are the Best Free Scanning Software for Mac in 2024?

In case you haven’t already installed one on your Mac, here is the list of 18 best free scanner software for Mac that are sure to ask you to keep calm and get the flow moving. Each features an offer that may be everything you want.

1. TWAIN SANE

In this list of top free scanning software for Mac, TWAIN SANE has to be one of the first ones to count on and the credit goes to its easy-to-understand functionality and its compatibility with other image-centric applications.

Features to look for:

• TWAIN SANE has a user-friendly interface.
• It is compatible with several other applications such as MS Word, Image Capture, and Graphic Converter.
• You can scan the documents through SANE backend libraries that offer a terrific range of scanners.
• Not to mention, it features easy installation and is free to use making it one of the best free scanner software for Mac to be available.

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2. PDF Scanner

Another best free scanner software for Mac is PDF Scanner which is a favorite of many users. When it comes to scanning images and documents, you may want to end your hunt for scanning software here, given its cool-headed features that make your access easy on the hand.

Features to look for:

• PDF Scanner features a user-friendly interface that makes the usual errands related to scanning hassle-free.
• It allows you to enjoy the scanned documents and images without ‘too much’ compression and keep the clarity in check.
• It features integration with OCR, making control over the data quicker.
• You have the freedom to edit your scanned documents with this free scanning software for Mac.

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3. ExactScan

ExactScan is one of the best scanning software for Mac that has the capacity to scan about 200 documents and is compatible with other scanners. Besides, this software, launched by ExactCode, is free and easy to function.

Features to look for:

• ExactScan allows you to store and scan over 200 documents.
• It supports almost every scanner out there.
• It allows you and whoever scans the documents to create an individual profile.
• This free scanning software for Mac features an easy installation and friendly interface.

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4. VueScan

Counting on another best free scanner software for Mac to be at your fingertips, VueScan had to make it to this list. It supports over 2800 scanners that function on Windows, OS X, and Linux. It offers you to view the scanned documents in multiple formats.

Read Also: Best Free Image Converter Software

Features to look for:

• VueScan is a free scanning software for Mac and does not cost you a lot of time.
• It works well with over 2800 types of scanners that are functioned on Windows, OS X, and Linux.
• This scanner program for Mac allows you to view scanned documents in multiple formats like JPG, PDF, or TIFF.

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5. SilverFast

SilverFast counts as one the best free scanning software for Mac that you may wish to install for it is also a neat scanner software for Mac and can deliver the best outputs. Want to scan the images with striking clarity and avoid the uninvited shabbiness? Perhaps, this photo scanner software for Mac is the answer.

Features to look for:

• VueScan is a free scanning software for Mac and does not cost you a lot of time.
• It works well with over 2800 types of scanners that are functioned on Windows, OS X, and Linux.
• This scanner program for Mac allows you to view scanned documents in multiple formats like JPG, PDF, or TIFF.

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6. Nitro PDF Pro

The next one here on our list of best free scanning software for Mac is Nitro PDF Pro. The user friendly interface and versatile nature of the software make it a decent choice for both beginners and professional Mac users. It enables quick and easy editing and converting PDF files. Moreover, you can add a customized signature and make these docs password protected. It is one of the most flexible yet affordable options for scanning software for Mac.

Features to look for:

• Create PDF and combine multiple files into a single PDF file.
• Easy to apply or request for electronic signatures
• Simple IT deployment
• Easily compatible with other PDF viewer applications

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7. DocScanner

If you are still not done hunting for the free scanning software for Mac, then DocScanner is probably the solution you may want to get your hands on. It is quick, easy, and offers qualitative outputs. Below are some of the notable features of DocScanner that make it a great addition to the list of best scanning software for Mac.

Features to look for:

• One interesting feature of this best scanner DocScanner is that it is available in about 15 languages.
• It allows you to scan documents and images effectively.
• This scanner program for Mac allows you to edit PDF documents easily.
• It allows you to share the documents.

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8. PDF Studio

Yet another best scanning software for Mac that is sure to make your to-dos be easy on you. This amazing scanning software, with its extensive features, allows you to create and scan PDFs. You can use the scanning program for Mac with a free trial and continue with its Standard or Pro version.

Read Also: Best Document Scanning Software for Windows 10

Features to look for:

• PDF Studio allows you to create and scan PDF documents.
• The documents can be shared and secured in this software.
• It allows you to zoom in and create additional changes in the documents.

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9. PDF pen

PDF pen is one of the best free scanning software as it allows the user to scan, highlight, scribble, and correct text easily. The software scans the text from images and converts them into words in just a few seconds.

The user can just select the text and click on the correct text option to edit. Moreover, for any other changes, you can also export the document in Word format to edit.

Features to look for:

• The user can easily proofread the document with the inbuilt Optical Character Recognition (OCR)
• Cloud storage for the PDFs
• Drag and drop easily to add and remove pages
• One-click edit text feature

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10. Presto! PageManager 9.5

One of the easiest and most simple software to have for scanning on Mac. Presto! PageManager 9.5 offers great inbuilt tools like editing, file recognition, secured storage, and many more. The software helps you in managing everything with ease. 

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Features to look for:

• The software can easily merge files and can also separate them
• It offers cloud sync for data backup
• A simple user interface to work on
• Filters files for quick viewing

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11. Abby FineReader

The next best Free Scanning software Mac in 2024 is Abby FineReader. With the help of this tool you can easily create, edit, convert, scan, and protect documents of different formats such as Word, PDF, HTML, spreadsheets, etc. Moreover, you can add comments on PDF files to perform various tasks in a single place.

An advanced Optional Character Recognition mechanism ensures that the file is converted and scanned accurately. For official purposes, users can try the Hot Folder feature of the software to scan documents on large scale.

Features to Look For:

• Organize your PDF files and create or edit them.
• Compare documents that are available even in different file formats.
• Optimize conversion routines and digitization.
• Make PDF files from images or paper with an easy-to-use user interface
• Make PDF files that are searchable.

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12. Adobe Acrobat Pro DC

Another one on our list of Best free Scanning software for Mac in 2024 is Adobe Acrobat Pro DC. It was one of the first software to convert PDF files to searchable or editable on Mac devices. View files online with complete surety of security and safety.

Mark important data in your files, add bookmarks to mark important links or information and add comments for updates. Moreover, you can search, add, or edit text or images on your PDF files.

Features:

• It has a user-friendly user interface.
• The customization possible in PDF files is excellent.
• It is integrated with other Adobe Creative Cloud Suite
• The latest versions are available for macOS Big Sur & Monterey.

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13. ReadIRIS

The last name on this list of the best free scanning software for Mac is ReadIRIS. With the help of this tool, you can do a lot more than just scan using Mac. The software also allows you to edit PDFs and generate text using the smart OCR reader. You will get to know more about the software from the features below.

Features:

• The user interface of the software is best for beginners.
• You get a plethora of options to edit and modify the document.
• The tool can be easily integrated with other software.

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14. Online Photo Scanner

The last name on this list of the best free scanning software for Mac is Online Photo Scanner. If you don’t want to put your efforts into downloading and installing a standalone tool for your Mac, then you can try this online solution.

Features:

• The online tool works on multiple devices with ease.
• The simple interface of the tool allows you to drag and drop the file or add as necessary.
• Online Photo Scanner offers multiple options for you to download the content.

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15. macOS Sonoma Scanner Software

Taking this list of the best free scanning software for Mac further is the next tool named macOS Sonoma Scanner Software. This is a smart alternative for you. You can easily use the tool to get the desired jobs done within a couple of clicks.

Features:

• The software offers multiple scanning options for your convenience.
• You can even capture images from your document with this tool.
• The tool is quite beginner-friendly.

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16. NAPS2 – Not Another PDF Scanner

NAPS2 – Not Another PDF Scanner is the next name on this list of the best free scanning software for Mac. This is a free scanning software that comes with an open-source build.

Features:

• The tool is compatible with multiple printers and scanners for your ease.
• NAPS2 – Not Another PDF Scanner supports various image extensions and formats.
• The tool allows you to edit images as well.

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17. Doc Scanner from Zoho Corporation

Doc Scanner from Zoho Corporation is the next name on this list of the best free scanning software for Mac. With the help of this tool, you can scan and generate a digital copy of any kind of document. The tool is very easy to use and allows smooth digitization of documents.

Features:

• The tool can convert documents to OCR.
• You can filter images and use them as necessary,
• Both premium and free versions to Doc Scanner from Zoho Corporation are available.

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18. ScanTango

ScanTango is the next name that we are suggesting in this list of the best free scanning software for Mac. This is an old but effective tool that will help you scan all kinds of documents with ease.

Features:

• Suitable for outdated and older macOS
• Allows editing of documents, annotations, and more.
• Supports PDF encryption
• Offers Information about resolutions, fonts, and more.

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Frequently Asked Questions about Best Scanner for Mac

If you still have any doubts related to the best document scanner for Mac, below we answer some of the most frequently asked questions related to the same for you:

Q1. How Do I Scan To PDF On Mac?

The process to scan PDFs on a Mac is quite easy. Just one the file you want to scan, click on the File menu, then move your cursor to New, and select the option named PDF from Scanner. Now all you need to do is select the scanner device. Alternatively, you can also take the help of the PDF scanner Mac listed above for this task.

Q2. How Do I Install Scanning Software On Mac?

You can easily install any best scanner for Macs by simply visiting the official website, from the website, you will find a direct link to either download the .zip or .dmg file. You can unzip and then install the file by double-clicking the same. Alternatively, the website may also redirect you to the official Apple Store to download and install the product.

Q3. How Can I Make a Scanned Document Look Clearer?

Different Mac scanning software comes with an option to make a scanned document look clearer on the device. You can use this feature and edit the document as you want for better quality and clarity.

Q4. Is there a scanner app on Mac?

Yes, the internet is filled with different open-source scanning software Mac and others like VueScan, TwainSane, etc. You can download and use any of these, as you want. Additionally, to help you even further, there is a list of the best Mac scanning software that can help you do the same.

Q.5 How to connect a scanner to a Mac?

The process to connect a scanner to the Mac is very easy. Firstly, download and install the latest best free scanning software for Mac as suited from the list above. Open the Apple Menu and run Printers and Scanners in the System Preferences settings. Click the plus (+) button and add the device you want. Once the scanner is added and connected, you can use the tool as required with ease.

Q.6 How do I use a scanner with a Mac?

To use the scanner with Mac, firstly, make sure that the scanner is connected to the Mac. Open the Apple Menu and run Printers and Scanners in the System Preferences settings. Near the scanner, click on the Open Scanner option and use the scanner to scan the image.

Q.7 Why can’t I scan on my Mac?

The issue in scanning can be due to improper settings on your Mac device. To enable scanning on Mac here are the steps that can be followed

• Open the Apple menu and click on System Preferences.
• Expand the section for Printers and Scanners.
• From the list choose your scanner and click on the option Open Scanner present next to it.

If the updated settings couldn’t fix the scanner, download any of the above best-listed free scanning software. Use the top scanner application for Mac to scan documents at the ease of a single click.

Q.8 Which scanner is best for Mac?

There are a lot of scanners available for Mac, however, tools like TWAIN SANE, PDF Scanner, and ExactScan are amongst the best ones available. These apps make it quite easy for you to scan any kind of document or image on your Mac.

Q.9 Is there a free app for scanning?

Luckily enough, there are many apps available to scan your Mac for free. We listed the best ones in this article. You can go through the applications shared in the previous section to choose the one suitable for you.

Q.10 Can you scan documents on a Mac without a scanner?

If there is no scanner available at your disposal, you can still scan your documents on Mac. You can do it using an OCR/scanning software, scanner application, or your phone’s camera.

Q11. Is it safe to use Scanning Software For Mac?

Yes, it is quite safe to use scanning software on a Mac. However, the thing to remember is that you always download the scanning software from a trusted platform and a trusted developer. Some scammers may also try to rip you off or get your data. Hence, choose one of the best free scanning software for Mac provided above as all of these tools are offered to you after extensive research.

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Wrap-Up

Scanning software has bagged an increasing number of installations and has proved to make the head spin less. Besides, who does not want to keep the fear of losing documents under their feet? These best free scanning software for Mac, with their key specs, provide qualitative results that you are in search of.

Which scanning software is best? Share your experience with us in the comment section.