Because Epson scanners don't actually resolve the grain. Low resolution scans tend to exaggerate grain... which can make you think you're resolving the grain.

Because Epson scanners don't actually resolve the grain. Low resolution scans tend to exaggerate grain... which can make you think you're resolving the grain. Also, photos aren't only about resolution and sharpness. Colour and tone reproduction is also important. And consumer scanners are acceptable, but nowhere near as good as drum scanners. Even minilab scanners (Fuji Frontier, Noritsu) are no match for drum scanners.