A tip for scanner shoppers: Think cheap. Whether you're getting your first flatbed or looking to replace your old one, entry-level scanners should be at the top of your list. They don't have the commercial scanning prowess of top-of-the-line gizmos, of course, but they're definitely up to handling your family history tasks. You can get a surprisingly powerful scanner for less than $100: Introductory models now boast 600 to 1,200 dpi optical resolution — more than adequate for producing photo-quality images — and at least 42-bit color (the higher the bit-depth, or bits per pixel, the richer the colors). They come with all the software you need to create, edit and share digital copies of your family photos and documents.

We tested budget models from three top scanner manufacturers, holding them up to both genealogy and graphic-design standards. The verdict: Whatever your skill level or scanning tasks, you can find a cheap flatbed that fits the bill.

HP Scanjet 2200c