Scanning speed matters most when you are processing a large collection, cataloging a new booster box, or preparing cards for sale. The fastest MTG scanners can process 30 to 50 cards per minute under good conditions, but real-world speed depends on several factors beyond the app itself.

Lotus Scan achieves recognition in roughly one to two seconds per card. In a steady rhythm where you are placing cards in front of the camera one after another, most users find they can sustain 30 to 40 cards per minute. The app provides instant visual and audio feedback when a card is recognized, so you know immediately when to move to the next card without waiting or guessing.

Delver Lens is often cited as the fastest scanner and can match or slightly exceed this speed for standard cards. However, Delver Lens users report that accuracy degrades after scanning very large batches, which means time spent correcting errors offsets the raw scanning speed advantage. The fastest scan means nothing if you have to go back and fix 10% of your results.

The biggest factor affecting real-world scanning speed is not the app but your workflow. Sorting cards face-up in a row before scanning, using consistent lighting, and having a clear scanning surface will do more for your speed than switching between apps. Sleeved cards scan slightly slower because the sleeve adds a reflection layer, and foil cards may require a brief pause to find the right angle.

For large collection projects like scanning thousands of cards, take breaks every 100-200 cards to review scan results and catch any errors early. It is much faster to correct a handful of errors in a batch of 200 than to discover hundreds of errors after scanning 2000 cards.

Lotus Scan also supports continuous scanning where the app is always looking for the next card as soon as the previous one is recognized. This eliminates the need to tap a scan button between cards and helps maintain a consistent rhythm throughout a long scanning session.