Lotus ScanLotus Scan vs ManaBox
Which MTG card scanner is better for you? A detailed comparison of features, accuracy, pricing, and more.
Lotus Scan and ManaBox are two of the most popular MTG card scanners, but they take very different approaches to card recognition. Lotus Scan uses AI-powered scanning that works without a white background, while ManaBox relies on its Quick Mode for faster scans on a clean surface. ManaBox has the advantage of cross-platform availability on both iOS and Android, whereas Lotus Scan is exclusively available on iPhone. This comparison breaks down how each app performs across the categories that matter most to collectors.
Quick Overview
Detailed Comparison
| Feature | Lotus Scan | ManaBox |
|---|---|---|
| Scanning Accuracy | 5/5 Lotus Scan's AI engine accurately identifies cards on any background, including foils and sleeved cards. It consistently picks the correct set and variant without manual correction. | 3/5 ManaBox works reasonably well on a white background, but struggles with foil and reflective cards. Recent updates have introduced scanning lag and inconsistent recognition. |
| Scanning Speed | 5/5 Card recognition is nearly instantaneous thanks to on-device AI processing. No need to position cards on a specific background saves significant time per scan. | 4/5 Quick Mode provides decent speed when conditions are optimal. However, needing to place each card on a white background adds overhead to every scan session. |
| Price Tracking | 5/5 Pulls real-time prices from multiple sources with price history charts. Users can track collection value changes over time with detailed analytics. | 4/5 Shows prices from TCGPlayer, Card Kingdom, Star City Games, and Cardmarket. Solid multi-source pricing, though it lacks the historical charting depth of some competitors. |
| Collection Management | 4/5 Custom collections make organizing cards intuitive, and the interface is clean and modern. Limited to iOS, which means no syncing to an Android device. | 4/5 Binder and list organization works well on both platforms. The 5-deck limit on the free tier can be frustrating for players managing multiple formats. |
| Value for Money | 4/5 The generous free tier provides strong scanning and price tracking. Premium unlocks advanced features at a reasonable price, but iOS exclusivity limits the audience. | 3/5 Free tier is restrictive with only 5 decks allowed. The premium subscription unlocks more decks, but the scanning issues persist regardless of payment. |
Our Verdict
For iPhone users who prioritize scanning accuracy and speed, Lotus Scan is the clear winner. Its ability to scan foils and sleeved cards without a white background eliminates the biggest friction point in ManaBox's workflow. However, if you need an app that works on Android or want cross-platform syncing, ManaBox is your only option here. Choose Lotus Scan for the best scanning experience on iOS, or ManaBox if Android support is non-negotiable.
Consider Lotus Scan
Looking for an MTG scanner that combines fast AI-powered recognition, real-time price tracking, and collection management? Lotus Scan for iPhone delivers all three without requiring a white background or subscription.