Guide to Finding the Right 3D Scanner


Today 3D scanners are becoming more popular every month. Some experts believe that sales of 3D scanners will be more than $10 billion by the year 2024. Most believe the technology will completely transform the design-to-manufacturing process. 

They’re being used now in a wide variety of industries, including construction, architecture, design, advertising, film, manufacturing, and medicine.

If you’re looking to buy one for business or personal use, you’re probably wondering which is the best 3D scanner for your needs. There is no shortage of brands and types of top 3D scanning technology.

We offer these 3D scanner reviews so you can decide where to invest your money.


Types of 3D Scanners

You can find three different types of 3D scanners. Understanding how they work will help you decide which kind to buy.

1. Desktop Scanners

As the name implies, these scanners sit on top of a desk or large surface. They’re used mainly for small to medium-sized jobs. There are two kinds of desktop scanners.

Closed-Frame – These scanners connect directly to a computer and offer better control of the light source inside the scanner. 

Open-Frame – If you need more flexibility around the 3D scanning area, this machine might be a better choice. You will need a bright room with a consistent light source in order for the machine to work right.

2. Handheld / Portable / Wireless Scanners

Handheld scanners offer the greatest flexibility, as they are better able to capture angles and details. If you need to visualize difficult-to-reach surfaces, this is probably your best choice. 

Portable scanners can be used for almost any size or type of object, from small machine parts to cars and even the human body.

Some handheld scanners are also wireless, but not all.

3. Professional or Industrial Scanners

For precision measurements and details, professional scanners are the way to go. Industrial scanners are designed to capture the shape and size of objects. However, they aren’t capable of capturing things like color and texture.

These scanners offer multiple technologies so they can work for almost any object or manufacturing need.

As you might imagine, professional scanners are the most expensive. Prices range from a few thousand dollars to tens of thousands for the most advanced systems.

4. Body Scanners

There is a fourth category called 3D body scanners. These are used exclusively to map individual body parts or even the entire body. The best ones are capable of producing a color scan in only a few seconds.

They are most often used for medical purposes, such as designing prosthetic limbs. However, the fitness and fashion industry also uses them for different applications. 


3D Scanner Reviews

Now that you understand the categories, we can break down the best bets in each of them. 


Best Desktop Scanners

1. Matter and Form V2 Scanner

If you’re looking for an affordable 3D scanner, this is one of your best bets. The Canadian-based company has been making quality machines since 2014 so the brand is well respected in the industry. This machine is easy to use, even for beginners, with intuitive software and a Quickscan feature that does the job in under a minute.

The program gives you the ability to see what the scanner is doing in real-time, which a bonus.

2. EinScan-SP (Platinum)

This is a cost-effective 3D scanner that is also suitable for professional use. The functionality and performance have greatly improved since the first model was introduced in 2017, with additional professional applications.

You can use it to capture small to medium-sized objects.

3. NextEngine 3D Scanner Ultra HD

This professional desktop scanner uses laser triangulation to capture object details. It’s capable of capturing multiple views and then patching them together, so it’s suitable for larger objects. It’s also ideal for doing full-color 3D printing. 


Best Handheld/Wireless Scanners 

1. Shining 3D EinScan Pro 3X Plus

This high-quality scanner is suitable for a variety of professional applications, including reverse engineering, generative design, and simulation. You can buy different packs, including color, industrial, and HD Prime.

It’s suitable for medium to large objects and can capture up to 1,500,000 points per second.

2. Artec Eva

If you’re looking for a quality, entry-level, handheld scanner, this is a good option. It’s lightweight, portable, fast, and easy to use. You can scan almost any size object, from small to large.

The machine uses structured light technology to scan objects, including texture and colors. It’s suitable for things like mechanical parts, vehicles, and environments. It’s also capable of reverse engineering and body scanning.

3. CreaForm Go!SCAN SPARK

The company that makes this scanner specializes in industrial-grade scanners for product development and quality control applications. It’s used in a variety of industries, including CAD design, prototyping, engineering, and tooling.

For all of that capability, it is still easy to use, highly portable, fast, and incredibly accurate. You won’t be disappointed in the quality.

4. XYZ Wireless 3D Printer/Scanner

This scanner has dual laser 3D scanning technology, enabling you to create distortion-free objects. The software gives you the ability to edit, scale, and reposition in post-production. It’s a larger machine, however, with a footprint of 18.4” x 20” x 22”.


Best Professional Grade/Industrial 3D Scanners

1. Shining 3D EinScan 2X Plus

As you may have noticed EinScan creates an entire lineup of quality 3D scanners. This one is a professional-grade machine that offers great quality and speed. You can use it for a number of applications, from reverse engineering to complicated geometrics.

2. David SLS-3

The versatile design and software of this machine makes it suitable for many different industries, from gaming and animation to full body scanning and archeology. It comes with a rail-slide mechanism that you can adjust after each frame


Now Is the Time to Invest in 3D Scanning

If you’re interested in buying one of the best 3D scanner products, there has never been a better time. Whether you want to make jewelry, auto parts, medical devices, or industrial machines, there is a 3D scanner machine for you. Study these top 3D scanner reviews to find the right type and model for your needs.

Be sure to check out our site to stay informed about the latest tech tools, marketing trends, and business resources from real estate to retail sales. Visit the Tech section of our business blog for more 3D scanner reviews and other top company technology.

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