Epson Scan 2 vs XSane

Epson Scan 2 is scanning software for Epson scanners and multifunction printers, with a graphical interface for scanner settings and saving scans in different file types. It supports USB connections and network scanning for compatible scanners. On Linux, network scanning requires installation of a plug-in package. Scans can also be started from the command line using a settings file, without opening the main window. Available image adjustments include background removal, text enhancement, color adjustment, descreening, color restoration, backlight correction, and skew correction. The Linux manual documents JPEG, PDF, TIFF, and Multi-TIFF output options. For OCR workflows, Auto Area Segmentation separates text from graphics, while Threshold can help OCR programs recognize text. Epson lists versions for Windows, macOS, and Linux, but supported operating systems and settings depend on the scanner model. Epson's Linux manual says the software has no official support and is distributed without warranty. Epson Scan 2 is free, but requires an Epson scanner or multifunction printer.

XSane is a graphical program for accessing scanners and other image acquisition devices through SANE. It can preview images and scan from devices such as flatbed scanners, with available hardware depending on the installed device and configuration. Its viewer, save, copy, fax, and mail modes cover several ways to handle an acquired image. Used on its own, XSane saves scans as PNM or converts them to JPEG, PNG, PS, or TIFF. It can also send an image to a printer or serve as a frontend to a fax program. XSane can be invoked through The GIMP to pass images there for further processing. SANE also includes a network protocol for accessing image acquisition devices over a network. The listed features include color management, gamma enhancement, and a histogram. XSane is free, requires a SANE-compatible scanner, and is listed for Linux and Windows. Its source description also names OS/2 and various Unix systems; package dependencies include SANE and GTK 2.