★★★★☆

Brother DS-740D: Portable Duplex Document Scanner

Category: Business and Professional Use

Published: March 24, 2025

Key Features

Fast Speed and Duplex Scanning
Ultra Compact Design
Battery-Powered Operation
User-Friendly Software Suite
Optimized Image and Text Enhancement

Overview and First Impressions

The Brother DS-740D Duplex Compact Mobile Document Scanner is a versatile device designed for both personal and professional use. With its high-speed duplex scanning capabilities, you can scan single and double-sided documents in a single pass at up to 16 ppm. The scanner’s small footprint makes it easy to store and transport, fitting anywhere from a bag to a purse or pocket. Its DSD (Desk Saving Design) feature reduces the amount of space needed to use the device by saving you 11 inches of desk space.

Design and Build Quality

The DS-740D boasts an ultra-compact design that measures only 11.9 x 2.5 x 1.8 inches, making it incredibly portable. The scanner’s build quality is solid, with a sturdy frame and a durable finish. It comes with a micro USB 3.0 cable for power, allowing you to use it even in areas without an outlet. The included batteries are a convenient feature, ensuring that the scanner remains powered throughout your scanning sessions.

Ease of Use

The ease of use of the DS-740D is one of its standout features. The user interface is intuitive, and you can quickly navigate through different settings using the large buttons on the front panel. The Brother free iPrint&Scan desktop app makes it easy to scan documents to multiple destinations such as your PC, network cloud services, email, and even perform OCR (Optical Character Recognition). This flexibility allows you to tailor the scanning process to your specific needs.

Performance Analysis

In terms of performance, the DS-740D delivers impressive results. Its high scan speed of up to 16 ppm ensures that even large documents can be processed quickly and efficiently. The duplex scanning feature is a game-changer, as it allows you to scan both sides of a document in one pass, saving time and effort. The scanner also supports automatic color detection/adjustment, image rotation, and bleed-through prevention, ensuring high-quality scans every time.

Software Features

The software suite that comes with the DS-740D is comprehensive and user-friendly. It includes features such as text enhancement, color drop to enhance scans, and automatic background removal. The iPrint&Scan app supports multiple operating systems (Windows, Mac, Linux) and protocols (TWAIN/WIA for PC, ICA for Mac, SANE drivers), making it accessible to a wide range of users. The software also includes document management features, allowing you to organize your scanned documents efficiently.

Use Cases

The DS-740D is ideal for various use cases, including office work, personal use, and professional tasks. Whether you need to scan receipts, ID cards, or business documents, this scanner handles the job with ease. Its compact size makes it perfect for on-the-go scenarios, such as scanning documents while traveling or during meetings at a coffee shop. The software’s OCR feature is particularly useful for extracting text from scanned images, making it an excellent tool for data entry and record-keeping.

Connectivity and Accessories

The DS-740D is straightforward to connect to your devices. It supports USB 3.0 and can be powered via the included micro USB cable. Additionally, the scanner comes with a carrying case to protect it during transport. The software app (iPrint&Scan) is available for download on Windows, Mac, and Linux, ensuring compatibility across different platforms.

Pros and Cons Summary

Pros:

High scan speed (up to 16 ppm)
Compact design with DSD feature
User-friendly software suite
Battery-powered operation
Excellent image and text enhancement features

Cons:

Higher price point than some budget options
Limited support for large format documents (not ideal for large scans)

Final Verdict and Recommendation.

The Brother DS-740D Duplex Compact Mobile Document Scanner is a top choice for those in need of a reliable, high-performance scanner that offers convenience and versatility. Its fast scanning speed, compact design, and intuitive software make it an excellent option for both personal and professional use. While its higher price point may be a drawback for budget-conscious users, the scanner’s performance and features justify the investment. If you prioritize productivity, ease of use, and built-in functionalities, the DS-740D is definitely worth considering.