Brother Wireless Document Scanner vs Brother ADS-3100 High-Speed Desktop Scanner (2026): Key Differences
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When you compare the brother wireless document scanner vs ads 3100 high speed desktop, you see two compact Brother scanners built for home or small office use. Both models handle single and double-sided documents efficiently. The main difference lies in their speed and connectivity options. The ADS-1700W offers wireless flexibility, while the ADS-3100 provides higher throughput. You should choose based on whether you prioritize network freedom or raw scanning volume.
Key differences
| Aspect | Brother Compact Wireless Document Scanner | Brother ADS-3100 Compact Desktop Scanner |
|---|---|---|
| Scan Speed | 25 ppm | Up to 40 ppm |
| ADF Capacity | 20 sheets | Up to 60 pages |
| Connectivity | Wireless, Micro USB 3.0 | Hi-Speed USB 3.0 |
| Touchscreen | 2.8-inch color touchscreen | not listed |
| Weight | 3.3 pounds | 6.1 pounds |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Brother Compact Wireless Document Scanner if
- You need wireless scanning to PCs, cloud apps, or mobile devices without cables.
- You prefer a lighter, more compact unit that fits easily on a small desk.
- You want a color touchscreen for one-touch scanning to preset destinations.
Choose Brother ADS-3100 Compact Desktop Scanner if
- You scan large batches of documents regularly and need faster throughput.
- You have stacks of up to 60 pages to process in a single feed.
- You connect primarily via USB and do not require wireless network features.
Verdict: The ADS-1700W is the better choice if you value wireless convenience and a portable form factor. The ADS-3100 suits users who prioritize speed and higher paper capacity over connectivity flexibility. Select the model that aligns with your specific workflow volume and connection preferences.
Brother ADS-1700W vs ADS-3100 Comparison
Scan speed
The Brother ADS-3100 offers a clear advantage in throughput. It scans at up to 40 pages per minute. This speed applies to both single and double-sided documents. The Brother ADS-1700W scans at 25 pages per minute. This is still fast for home office use. However, the ADS-3100 handles larger batches more efficiently. If you process stacks of papers daily, the higher rate saves time. The ADS-1700W is sufficient for lighter workloads. You get faster results with the ADS-3100 when volume increases.
ADF capacity
Paper handling capacity differs significantly between these models. The Brother ADS-3100 holds up to 60 pages in its auto document feeder. This allows you to scan longer documents without stopping. The Brother ADS-1700W has a 20-page capacity. You will need to reload paper more often with this model. The ADS-3100 is better for heavy-duty scanning tasks. The ADS-1700W suits occasional scanning needs. Consider how many pages you scan at once. The larger feeder on the ADS-3100 reduces interruptions during work.
Connectivity
Wireless capability is a major differentiator here. The Brother ADS-1700W supports wireless scanning to PCs, networks, and cloud services. It also includes Micro USB 3.0 for local connections. The Brother ADS-3100 relies on Hi-Speed USB 3.0 only. It lacks built-in wireless options. If you need to scan from multiple devices or locations, the ADS-1700W is superior. The ADS-3100 requires a direct cable connection. Wireless convenience gives the ADS-1700W the edge for flexible setups.
Display interface
User interaction varies with the built-in controls. The Brother ADS-1700W features a 2.8-inch color touchscreen. This display allows one-touch scanning to preset destinations. You can manage device settings directly on the unit. The Brother ADS-3100 does not list a display in its specifications. You must rely on software on your connected computer for control. The touchscreen on the ADS-1700W makes operation simpler. It provides immediate visual feedback. The ADS-3100 requires a computer for interface management.
Dimensions and weight
Physical size affects desk space requirements. The Brother ADS-1700W measures 3.3 x 11.8 x 4.1 inches and weighs 3.3 pounds. It is very compact and lightweight. The Brother ADS-3100 measures 8.5 x 11.7 x 7.5 inches and weighs 6.1 pounds. It is larger and heavier due to the bigger feeder. The ADS-1700W fits easily in tight spaces. The ADS-3100 needs more desk real estate. If portability or small desk space is key, the ADS-1700W is the better choice. The ADS-3100 is bulkier but handles more paper.
Which Brother Scanner Fits Your Needs
Users needing wireless mobility and touch control
The ADS-1700W includes a 2.8-inch color touchscreen for one-touch scanning and manages device settings directly. It supports wireless scanning to PC, cloud apps, and mobile devices. This connectivity allows you to scan from anywhere in the room without being tethered to a computer via cable.
High-volume office workers requiring speed
The ADS-3100 scans up to 40 pages per minute. This is significantly faster than the 25 ppm rate of the ADS-1700W. It also holds up to 60 pages in its auto document feeder. This higher capacity and speed help you process large batches of documents more efficiently during busy workdays.
Small desk users with limited space
The ADS-1700W measures 3.3 x 11.8 x 4.1 inches and weighs 3.3 pounds. This compact footprint fits easily on smaller desks or shelves. The ADS-3100 is larger at 11.7 x 8.5 x 7.5 inches and weighs 6.1 pounds, requiring more surface area and offering less portability for tight spaces.
The products compared
Brother Compact Wireless Document Scanner
Best for: Small offices and home users needing wireless scanning
- Scan Speed
- 25 ppm
- ADF Capacity
- 20 sheets
- Connectivity
- Wireless, Micro USB 3.0
- Portability
- Compact desktop
- Touchscreen
- 2.8-inch color touchscreen
- Driver Support
- TWAIN, WIA, ICA, SANE
View on Amazon: Brother Compact Wireless Document Scanner Affiliate link
The Brother ADS-1700W is a compact desktop scanner designed for home and office use. It scans up to 25 pages per minute with a 20-sheet auto document feeder. You get wireless connectivity and a 2.8-inch color touchscreen for easy setup. It supports scanning to cloud, email, and USB drives. This model suits users who need portable, fast document digitization without a large footprint.
Pros
- Scans up to 25 pages per minute
- 20-sheet auto document feeder capacity
- Wireless and Micro USB 3.0 connectivity
- 2.8-inch color touchscreen display
- Supports scanning to cloud and email
Cons
- 20-sheet ADF capacity is lower than high-speed desktop models
- No Ethernet port listed for wired network connections
- Smaller 2.8-inch touchscreen limits screen real estate
Good fit if
- You need a scanner that fits on a small desk
- You want to scan documents wirelessly to mobile devices or cloud
- You handle moderate volumes of single or double-sided pages
Skip if
- You require high-volume scanning with a large paper tray
- You need a wired Ethernet connection for stable network transfers
- You prefer a larger display for easier navigation
Verdict: The Brother ADS-1700W Wireless Document Scanner is a practical choice for small offices or home users who value portability and wireless convenience over high-speed throughput.
Brother ADS-3100 Compact Desktop Scanner
Best for: fixed desk scanning with USB
- Scan Speed
- Up to 40 ppm
- ADF Capacity
- Up to 60 pages
- Connectivity
- Hi-Speed USB 3.0
- Portability
- Desktop
- Supported Functions
- Scan
- Features
- Scanner
View on Amazon: Brother ADS-3100 Compact Desktop Scanner Affiliate link
The Brother ADS-3100 is a compact desktop scanner designed for small offices and home workspaces. It delivers single- and double-sided scanning speeds of up to 40 pages per minute. The automatic document feeder holds up to 60 sheets. It connects via Hi-Speed USB 3.0 to your computer or a USB drive. This model includes bundled software to help organize and enhance your documents efficiently.
Pros
- Scans up to 40 pages per minute
- Holds 60-page document stack
- Compact desktop footprint
- Hi-Speed USB 3.0 connectivity
Cons
- No wireless or network connectivity
- Limited to USB connection only
- Not portable for travel
Good fit if
- You need fast scanning at a fixed desk
- You prefer direct USB connection to a computer
- You have limited counter space
Skip if
- You require wireless scanning capabilities
- You need to scan from multiple locations
- You want network connectivity for shared use
Verdict: Brother ADS-3100 Desktop Scanner is a solid choice for users who prioritize speed and compactness over wireless features. It fits best in fixed workspaces where USB connectivity is sufficient for daily document management.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Brother Compact Wireless Document Scanner | Brother ADS-3100 Compact Desktop Scanner |
|---|---|---|
| Scan Speed | 25 ppm | Up to 40 ppm |
| ADF Capacity | 20 sheets | Up to 60 pages |
| Connectivity | Wireless, Micro USB 3.0 | Hi-Speed USB 3.0 |
| Portability | Compact desktop | Desktop |
| Touchscreen | 2.8-inch color touchscreen | not stated |
| Driver Support | TWAIN, WIA, ICA, SANE | not stated |
| Supported Functions | Scan | Scan |
| Features | Scanner | Scanner |
| Ideal For | Documents | not stated |
| Use Case | Office, Home | not stated |
| Scanner Type | not stated | Desktop |
| Scanning | Wireless Scanning | not stated |
| Dimensions | 4.1 × 11.8 × 3.3 inches | 11.7 × 8.5 × 7.5 inches |
| Weight | 3.3 pounds | 6.1 pounds |
| Size | 3.3" x 11.8" x 4.1" | A4 - 8.27" x 11.69",A5 - 5.83" x 8.27" |
| Color | white | White |
| Model | ADS1700W | ADS3100 |
Frequently asked questions
Which Brother scanner is better for a small home office?
The Brother ADS-1700W is the better choice for small home offices. It offers wireless connectivity, allowing you to scan from anywhere in the room. Its compact size measures 3.3 inches by 11.8 inches by 4.1 inches. This makes it easy to place on a small desk or shelf without taking up much space.
Does the ADS-3100 support wireless scanning?
No, the Brother ADS-3100 does not support wireless scanning. It is designed for fixed desk use with USB connectivity. This model prioritizes speed and stability over mobility. If you need to scan from a laptop or mobile device without cables, you should choose the ADS-1700W instead, which features built-in wireless capabilities.
How much space does each scanner take up?
The Brother ADS-1700W is more compact, measuring 3.3 inches in height, 11.8 inches in width, and 4.1 inches in length. The ADS-3100 is larger, with dimensions of 7.5 inches in height, 8.5 inches in width, and 11.7 inches in length. You should measure your available desk space before deciding which model fits your workspace.
Can I carry the ADS-1700W easily?
Yes, the Brother ADS-1700W is lightweight and portable. It weighs only 3.3 pounds, making it easy to move between rooms or take on the go. The ADS-3100 weighs 6.1 pounds, which is nearly double the weight. If you need a scanner that is easy to transport, the lighter ADS-1700W is the practical option.
What is the main difference in connectivity between these two models?
The primary difference is wireless capability. The Brother ADS-1700W supports wireless scanning, allowing you to connect to your network without cables. The ADS-3100 relies on USB connectivity for a direct connection to your computer. Choose the ADS-1700W if you want flexibility, or the ADS-3100 if you prefer a stable wired connection.
Which scanner is heavier?
The Brother ADS-3100 is heavier, weighing 6.1 pounds. The Brother ADS-1700W weighs 3.3 pounds. The difference in weight reflects their different designs. The ADS-3100 is built for a permanent spot on a desk, while the ADS-1700W is designed for portability and ease of movement around the office or home.
Is the ADS-3100 suitable for mobile work?
No, the ADS-3100 is not suitable for mobile work. It is a desktop scanner designed for fixed locations. It lacks wireless features and requires a USB connection. If you need to scan documents while traveling or moving between desks, the wireless ADS-1700W is the appropriate choice due to its mobility and wireless functionality.