Flatbed scanners are the most common type of desktop scanner. They're also the most versatile and are ideal for multipurpose use. Unlike sheet-fed scanners, they have a top-opening lid with a scanbed that can host bulky objects that won't go through a document feeder. While they vary greatly in scanning features, accessories and included software, most can handle both documents and photo prints. Some support transparent material such as slides and negatives, though you'll have to pay a bit more one with these capabilities.