I have been using the ScanSnaps for quite a few years and they have been great little machines. I replaced an older S500 with the current model S1500 a few months ago and everything is running nicely. I paid a little over $400 for it.
Costco has a Brother ADS-2000 for $269.99 (including delivery) right now. The specs look comparable, the reviews look pretty good AND it's TWAIN compliant. I have another S500 that needs replacing and I'm wondering if anyone else has used a Brother for a ScanSnap replacement. Any other cost effective models out there?
I am of the mind that the scanner use is waning, given all of the PDF files that are now out there. For only $269, I'd try the Brother unit and toss it in a couple of years if you need to. I have several $600 Canon DR 2080 scanners that are still going strong after 10 years or so. I'm ashamed to say it, but only 2 of the 5 scanners have ever had a roller kit, much less any other parts put into them and they work fine.