★★★★☆

Brother DS-640 Portable Document Scanner

Category: Business and Professional Use

Published: March 24, 2025

Key Features

Compact size: 1.5"x2"x11.9 inches, weighs about 1.03 pounds
Fast scan speeds up to 16 ppm (color and monochrome at 300dpi)
On-the-go scanning through micro USB 3.0 cable
Bundled software with OCR, document management capabilities
Supports Windows, Mac® and Linux® environments
Versatile scan sizes up to 72 inches long and 72 lb. bond weight
Automated color detection/adjustment, image rotation (PC only), bleed through prevention
1-Year Limited Warranty

Overview and First Impressions

The Brother DS-640 Compact Mobile Document Scanner is a versatile and user-friendly option for those looking for a reliable document scanner that can handle both personal and professional needs. Its sleek design and compact size make it an ideal choice for individuals who need to stay mobile, while its fast scan speeds and bundled software offer powerful features for efficient document management.

Design and Build Quality

The DS-640 boasts a solid build quality with its durable plastic construction. Its dimensions of 1.5"x2"x11.9 inches and weight of about 1.03 pounds make it compact enough to fit in most pockets or bags, yet sturdy enough for daily use. The scanner's design is functional without sacrificing aesthetics, making it a great choice for both personal and professional settings.

Ease of Use

The ease of use of the Brother DS-640 cannot be overstated. Its intuitive interface and bundled software make the scanning process a breeze. The scanner's automatic color detection/adjustment feature is particularly user-friendly, ensuring that each scan comes out looking its best. The included software allows for easy document management, OCR capabilities, and even email or cloud storage options, making it accessible to users of all skill levels.

Performance Analysis

In terms of performance, the Brother DS-640 delivers excellent results. Its fast scan speeds up to 16 ppm make it ideal for quickly capturing documents on-the-go. The scanner's ability to handle a variety of document sizes up to 72 inches long and 72 lb. bond weight is also impressive, allowing users to capture large documents without any issues. Additionally, the automated color detection/adjustment feature enhances image quality significantly, making it a standout performer in its category.

Software Features

The bundled software suite offered with the Brother DS-640 includes advanced features that set it apart from other document scanners on the market. OCR capabilities allow for easy text extraction and conversion to editable Microsoft Word files, while the document management functions offer a convenient way to organize and save scanned documents. The inclusion of email and cloud storage options also makes it easy to share scans with others or store them in the cloud for secure access from anywhere.

Use Cases

The Brother DS-640 can be used in various scenarios, including personal use and professional settings. For individuals who need to capture documents on-the-go, its compact size and fast scan speeds make it an ideal choice. In a professional setting, its OCR capabilities and document management functions are particularly useful for businesses that require quick and efficient document processing. Whether you're capturing invoices, receipts, or business cards, the DS-640 has got you covered.

Connectivity and Accessories

The Brother DS-640 connects easily to a laptop or PC through its micro USB 3.0 cable, making it highly portable and convenient for on-the-go use. The scanner's support for Windows, Mac® and Linux® environments ensures compatibility across different devices. Additionally, the included software provides drivers and bundled software available via download at solutions.brother.com, making setup and usage a breeze.

Pros and Cons Summary

Pros:Compact size, fast scan speeds, intuitive interface, advanced OCR capabilities, versatile document management functions, easy connectivity to various devices.
Cons:Limited to Windows, Mac® and Linux® environments, may require additional software downloads for full functionality.

Final Verdict and Recommendation

The Brother DS-640 Compact Mobile Document Scanner is a highly recommended choice for individuals and businesses looking for a reliable and versatile document scanner. Its fast scan speeds, intuitive interface, and advanced OCR capabilities make it an excellent option for capturing documents on-the-go or in a professional setting. While its limited compatibility with Windows, Mac® and Linux® environments may be a drawback for some users, the overall performance and convenience of this scanner make it a worthwhile investment.