Are you looking for free apps to digitize notes or scan documents? You are in the right place ! What is complicated is choosing between all the existing ones. So, we have compiled a list for you of the 8 best free note scanning applications available on IOS & Android.
#1 Genius Scan
Genius Scan rises to the top of this ranking for its effectiveness. It allows you to scan your notes simply, but above all efficiently. This free application offers you 2 possibilities: scanning your document and editing it directly of course (nothing new under the sun) but also multiple scanning or multi-page scanning which allows you to scan dozens of pages in a few seconds. This free application is intelligent and practical, automatic cropping, image quality improvement...
Ultra-efficient PDF export in multi-page (several PDFs) or not to note-taking software like Evernote, Notion...
In Premium version : advanced options (contact creation, etc.)
Here is a YouTube video to learn the basics of free scanning with Genius Scan:
#2 Adobe Scan
#3 CamScanner
CamScanner has over 750 million users. Scan receipts, contracts, and ID cards simply.
In its free version, CamScanner already offers a great experience. Even if some advanced functions require a fee, it remains great for your daily needs. Scan everything, even with special modes for ID cards and QR codes.
The PDF converter allows you to create PDFs from websites or convert other files. Easily share your scans on WhatsApp or email. The PDF scanner recognizes text, and you can even sign electronically.
#4 Scannable Evernote (on IOS only)
How to scan for free on iPhone?
Scannable, designed by the team behind Evernote, makes scanning a quick and easy experience on iPhone. Scannable automates the process by instantly capturing documents when you point your camera. Save time with automatically adjusted scans and easily share your files as PDF or JPG.
#5 Scanbot
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If you are looking for a 100% free scanning application that is both simple and powerful, Scanbot is your ally. This application allows you to scan your documents for free and convert them into high-quality digital files. Thanks to its automatic function, it identifies and captures your documents.
Strong points :
→ Intuitive Interface: The well-designed interface makes scanning and editing simple.
→ Advanced Annotation Tools: Personalize your documents with annotations, signatures, and more.
→ Cloud Compatibility: Store your scans on popular services such as Dropbox, Google Drive, or Evernote.
Points to Consider:
- Some advanced features available through in-app purchases.
Scanbot stands out for its ease of use and advanced annotation features, making it a solid choice for those looking for a versatile scanning application.
#6 Microsoft Lens, the best free app for scanning on Android
Microsoft Lens stands out for its simplicity and usefulness in scanning. With a user-friendly interface, the application offers valuable features for different media such as business cards, whiteboards, photos and documents.
Microsoft Office Lens is highly recommended for those who own an Android phone and are familiar with Microsoft Office .
Business card mode uses optical character recognition to integrate data into your address book and OneNote. For whiteboards, Lens removes reflections, corrects perspective and provides optimal readability. The most practical document mode straightens, crops and enhances images.
Native integration with Microsoft tools, like Word and PowerPoint, adds to its appeal, but it also becomes overly dependent on Microsoft office tools. Optical character recognition makes it easier to find and edit text. All these features are free, making it an effective choice for Microsoft users.
#7 The Notes application on iPhone
The "Notes" application integrated into the iPhone offers scanning functionalities, although less advanced than dedicated applications. It allows you to capture documents, receipts or notes using the camera.
However, it is essential to note that compared to the specialized applications mentioned above, the "Notes" application offers limited capabilities.
Here is a non-exhaustive list of some practical uses of this free app on iPhone:
→ Extract text from an image
→ Scan & export directly to PDF
→ Lock the app with a code
#8 Google Photo Scan
Google PhotoScan is the ideal tool for scanning your printed photos, effectively eliminating reflections and light halos that can affect the quality of your scans. Thanks to its unique method, the application captures the image from multiple angles, automatically corrects defects, and saves the photos directly to your smartphone gallery. However, while good for photographs, it might not be the best option for reproducing textual documents. Despite everything, we found it interesting to notify you of its existence, because it is a nugget for scanning printed photos.
A little final word? 😁
Scanning apps are redefining the way we take notes.
They provide a seamless transition from traditional handwriting to modern digitization, allowing users to easily capture, organize and share their ideas. By using an erasable & reusable notebook and then scanning our notes and starting again, we save a considerable amount of paper, but not only... 💡
Note-taking thus becomes more flexible, ecological and accessible. This innovative combination provides users with an efficient way to digitize their handwritten notes while preserving the natural look of the writing and nature itself.
