What is the best 3D scanner?

Many different types of 3D scanners exist, from desktop 3D scanners to handheld 3D scanners and advanced metrology systems. 3D scanners serve an extremely wide range of applications, from reverse engineering to 3D body scanning or even forensic investigations.

However, given the low number of reliable 3D scanner reviews, it can be challenging to find the best 3D scanner. It can also be complex to know what kind of 3D scanner to get based on your application. A $2,000 3D scanner won’t be sufficient for part inspection, and a $60,000 3D scanner would be overkill if you don’t need the precision.

With that in mind, our goal is to offer an overview of the best 3D scanners in different categories. We broke down our best 3D scanner picks into actionable selections:

  • Professional: A mix of the best desktop and handheld options for professionals
  • Affordable: Entry-level 3D scanners for makers with prices starting at around $400
  • Metrology: High-precision 3D scanners for demanding use cases
  • Handheld: Portative devices that can access hard-to-reach places
  • SLAM and iMMS: Mobile laser 3D scanners for BIM and other large-scale applications
  • TLS: Terrestrial LiDAR scanners
  • Dental (desktop): Stationary 3D scanners for the dental labs
  • Jewelry: Closed, high-precision 3D scanners for jewelers
  • 3D body scanners: Booths and handheld color 3D scanners

Note that there can be some overlap between categories. For example, some handheld 3D scanners are precise enough for metrology or can capture colors and work for 3D body scanning.

Tip: Use the table of contents to the top left of your screen to easily navigate between our selections.

We also run through different 3D scanning applications (reverse engineering, 3D inspection, architecture, etc.) and provide concise explanations of the various 3D scanning technologies that exist.

Professional 3D scanner selection

This category groups some of the best professional 3D scanners. Our selection spans a wide price spectrum and includes both desktop scanners and handheld 3D scanners. These 3D scanners can cover most professional use cases.

BrandProductAccuracyCountryPrice
Approximate starting prices based on supplier-provided information and public data. Prices may vary by region, over time and do not include additional products or services (taxes, shipping, accessories, training, installation, …).
Shining 3D
This manufacturer is a Certified partner from our network.
EinScan H2 0.05 mmChina$ 5,299Quote
Shining 3D
This manufacturer is a Certified partner from our network.
EinScan HX
This product has been reviewed by our team.
0.04 mmChina$ 12,000Quote
CreaformHandySCAN BLACK Elite
This product has been reviewed by our team.
0.025 mmCanada$ 65,000Quote
GOMGOM Scan 1
This product has been reviewed by our team.
Germany upon requestQuote
GOMATOS Q
This product has been reviewed by our team.
Germany upon requestQuote

The products in the table are ranked by price (low to high).

TITRE:
BrandProductTechnologyCategoryCountryPrice
Approximate starting prices based on supplier-provided information and public data. Prices may vary by region, over time and do not include additional products or services (taxes, shipping, accessories, training, installation, …).
Shining 3D
This manufacturer is a Certified partner from our network.
EinScan H2HybridHandheldChina$ 5,299Get a quote
Shining 3D
This manufacturer is a Certified partner from our network.
EinScan HX
This product has been reviewed by our team.
Structured lightHandheldChina$ 12,000Get a quote
CreaformHandySCAN BLACK Elite
This product has been reviewed by our team.
Laser triangulationHandheldCanada$ 65,000Get a quote
GOMGOM Scan 1
This product has been reviewed by our team.
Structured lightDesktopGermany upon requestGet a quote
GOMATOS Q
This product has been reviewed by our team.
Structured lightIndustrialGermany upon requestGet a quote

Overview of the best professional 3D scanners

Selection This product is featured in a buyer’s guide.
By Shining 3D
This manufacturer is a Certified partner from our network.
CountryChina
CategoryHandheld
TechnologyHybrid
Max resolution0.2 mm
Price$ 5,299
From
Approximate starting prices based on supplier-provided information and public data. Prices may vary by region, over time and do not include additional products or services (taxes, shipping, accessories, training, installation, …).
$ 5,299

The EinScan H2 is an advanced handheld color 3D scanner for artists, medical physicians, designers, and engineers. It’s the next generation of the popular EinScan H, known for its wide FOV and convenient dual light sources.

It’s optimal for:


  • Capturing feature-rich, colored objects without markers

  • Effortless 3D body scanning

  • 3D scanning large objects thanks to its wide FOV and high accuracy


Selection This product is featured in a buyer’s guide.
Tested This product has been reviewed by our team.
By Shining 3D
This manufacturer is a Certified partner from our network.
CountryChina
CategoryHandheld
TechnologyStructured light
Max resolution0.05 mm
Price$ 12,000
From
Approximate starting prices based on supplier-provided information and public data. Prices may vary by region, over time and do not include additional products or services (taxes, shipping, accessories, training, installation, …).
$ 12,000

The EinScan HX features hybrid technology: it has both structured LED light and laser triangulation capabilities, an industry-first from Shining 3D. Each technology is accessible through a specific mode that the user chooses at the beginning of a 3D scanning process.

After reviewing the HX, we found that it is a powerful and versatile product, capable of 3D scanning parts of various properties (sizes, colors, textures). It has a nice and sturdy finish and is easy to manipulate. In addition, the little weight it has is very well distributed to offer an ergonomic balance.

In this price range and at this level of performance, the EinScan HX is unrivaled.

Read the full review: Shining 3D EinScan HX review

Selection This product is featured in a buyer’s guide.
Tested This product has been reviewed by our team.
CountryCanada
CategoryHandheld
TechnologyLaser triangulation
Max resolution0.1 mm
Price$ 65,000
From
Approximate starting prices based on supplier-provided information and public data. Prices may vary by region, over time and do not include additional products or services (taxes, shipping, accessories, training, installation, …).
$ 65,000

The BLACK Elite tops out Creaform’s flagship HandySCAN range, which we have reviewed several times over the years. It delivers a powerful performance that reminds us of the Metrascan 750, but without all the hurdles (complex setup, number of parts and accessories, and large footprint).

Creaform’s HandySCAN BLACK Elite boasts a clean, robust finish. Everything exudes quality and rigor, the attention to detail is similar to the feeling that Apple products give off. It’s no wonder this scanner received a Red Dot Design Award (2019).

Read the full review: HandySCAN BLACK Elite review

Selection This product is featured in a buyer’s guide.
Tested This product has been reviewed by our team.
By GOM
CountryGermany
CategoryDesktop
TechnologyStructured light
Max resolution0.037 mm
Price upon request
Price
Approximate starting prices based on supplier-provided information and public data. Prices may vary by region, over time and do not include additional products or services (taxes, shipping, accessories, training, installation, …).
upon request

With a starting price of around €20,000, the GOM Scan 1 is GOM’s most entry-level, metrology-grade solution. We visited GOM’s Benelux HQ to review the scanner in early 2022, and were not disappointed.

The offer? GOM quality and performance at an affordable price. It is on par with high-end metrology 3D scanners and is quite fast at 6,000,000 points per scan. The GOM Scan 1 also benefits from the same, powerful GOM Inspect software as its more premium counterparts.

It is a small, lightweight, and precise machine packed with very serious capabilities.

Read the full review: GOM Scan 1 review

Selection This product is featured in a buyer’s guide.
Tested This product has been reviewed by our team.
By GOM
CountryGermany
CategoryIndustrial
TechnologyStructured light
Max resolution0.03 mm
Price upon request
Price
Approximate starting prices based on supplier-provided information and public data. Prices may vary by region, over time and do not include additional products or services (taxes, shipping, accessories, training, installation, …).
upon request

The ATOS Q is part of GOM’s ATOS lineup, a range of industrial-grade optical metrology solutions. It is aimed at industrial users looking for a powerful and flexible metrology solution at a reasonable price.

One of the ATOS Q’s key selling points is the fact that it can be easily moved along an assembly line or from one site to another. It can’t be qualified as “portable”, but is without a doubt “transportable”.

The scanner also offers a lot of flexibility in part type and size thanks to its multiple lenses and is able to acquire difficult surfaces thanks to its blue light equalizer.

Read the full review: GOM ATOS Q review

Affordable 3D scanners for makers

This selection includes some of the best affordable 3D scanners for makers.

BrandProductAccuracyCountryPrice
Approximate starting prices based on supplier-provided information and public data. Prices may vary by region, over time and do not include additional products or services (taxes, shipping, accessories, training, installation, …).
RevopointPOP 2 0.1 mmChina$ 699Quote
Creality
Product data validated by the manufacturer.
CR-SCAN 1 0.1 mmChina$ 700Quote
Matter and Form
Product data validated by the manufacturer.
Scanner V2 0.1 mmUnited States$ 749Quote
Scan Dimension
Product data validated by the manufacturer.
SOL Denmark$ 799Quote
Shining 3D
This manufacturer is a Certified partner from our network.
Einstar
This product has been reviewed by our team.
China$ 959Quote
Shining 3D
This manufacturer is a Certified partner from our network.
EinScan-SE (Elite) 0.1 mmChina$ 1,199Quote

The products in the table are ranked by price (low to high).

TITRE:
BrandProductTechnologyCountryPrice
Approximate starting prices based on supplier-provided information and public data. Prices may vary by region, over time and do not include additional products or services (taxes, shipping, accessories, training, installation, …).
RevopointPOP 2Structured lightChina$ 699Get a quote
Creality
Product data validated by the manufacturer.
CR-SCAN 1Structured lightChina$ 700Get a quote
Matter and Form
Product data validated by the manufacturer.
Scanner V2Laser triangulationUnited States$ 749Get a quote
Scan Dimension
Product data validated by the manufacturer.
SOLLaser triangulationDenmark$ 799Get a quote
Shining 3D
This manufacturer is a Certified partner from our network.
Einstar
This product has been reviewed by our team.
Structured lightChina$ 959Get a quote
Shining 3D
This manufacturer is a Certified partner from our network.
EinScan-SE (Elite)Structured lightChina$ 1,199Get a quote

Overview of the best affordable 3D scanner options

Selection This product is featured in a buyer’s guide.
CountryChina
CategoryDesktop
TechnologyStructured light
Price$ 699
From
Approximate starting prices based on supplier-provided information and public data. Prices may vary by region, over time and do not include additional products or services (taxes, shipping, accessories, training, installation, …).
$ 699

Revopoint launched the POP 2 towards the end of 2021 after a successful Kickstarter campaign with the original POP. We reviewed the original POP shortly before this release, and it seems that some of the quacks (mainly software-related) we encountered have since been worked out. Their new software features a calibration process and a new “Wi-Fi host” mode.

The POP 2 is an interesting option for makers or beginners looking to learn more about 3D scanning. We wouldn’t particularly recommend it for professional use cases, though it can get the job done if you don’t need high resolution.

The Revopoint POP 2 can be used on a small tripod or as a handheld device, and is able to capture colors.

Selection This product is featured in a buyer’s guide.

SOL

By Scan Dimension
Product data validated by the manufacturer.
CountryDenmark
CategoryDesktop
TechnologyLaser triangulation
Price$ 799
From
Approximate starting prices based on supplier-provided information and public data. Prices may vary by region, over time and do not include additional products or services (taxes, shipping, accessories, training, installation, …).
$ 799

This affordable desktop 3D scanner is geared towards hobbyists and tech enthusiasts. The SOL 3D scanner is equipped with an automatic turntable to complement its hybrid 3D scanning technology (a combination of structured light and laser triangulation).

Scan Dimension notes that this 3D scanner is easy to use, thanks to a simplified app that lets users avoid complex calibration and software manipulation.

Selection This product is featured in a buyer’s guide.
By Creality
Product data validated by the manufacturer.
CountryChina
CategoryHandheld
TechnologyStructured light
Price$ 700
From
Approximate starting prices based on supplier-provided information and public data. Prices may vary by region, over time and do not include additional products or services (taxes, shipping, accessories, training, installation, …).
$ 700

The CR-SCAN 1 is another 3D scanner under $1,000. It can be used on a tripod as well as in handheld mode. According to Creality, the use of markers is unnecessary thanks to their AI-based alignment algorithm.

Selection This product is featured in a buyer’s guide.
By Matter and Form
Product data validated by the manufacturer.
CountryUnited States
CategoryDesktop
TechnologyLaser triangulation
Price$ 749
From
Approximate starting prices based on supplier-provided information and public data. Prices may vary by region, over time and do not include additional products or services (taxes, shipping, accessories, training, installation, …).
$ 749

Matter and Form has been producing affordable desktop 3D scanners since 2014. The 3D Scanner V2 (a.k.a. MFS1V2) is, as its naming suggests, the second version of their flagship product, the Matter and Form MFS1V1 3D scanner.

It boasts a great price-to-performance ratio and is able to quickly scan 3D objects while displaying results in real time. Matter and Form also manufactures the Bevel dongle for use with 3D scanning smartphone apps.

Selection This product is featured in a buyer’s guide.
Tested This product has been reviewed by our team.
By Shining 3D
This manufacturer is a Certified partner from our network.
CountryChina
CategoryHandheld
TechnologyStructured light
Price$ 959
From
Approximate starting prices based on supplier-provided information and public data. Prices may vary by region, over time and do not include additional products or services (taxes, shipping, accessories, training, installation, …).
$ 959

The Einstar is an easy-to-use, affordable and handheld 3D scanner from the Chinese manufacturer Shining 3D. It brings professional-grade performance at an attractive price point under $1,000.

Selection This product is featured in a buyer’s guide.
By Shining 3D
This manufacturer is a Certified partner from our network.
CountryChina
CategoryDesktop
TechnologyStructured light
Price$ 1,199
From
Approximate starting prices based on supplier-provided information and public data. Prices may vary by region, over time and do not include additional products or services (taxes, shipping, accessories, training, installation, …).
$ 1,199

The EinScan-SE is a powerful entry-level desktop 3D scanner designed to capture small- to medium-sized objects in 3D. Launched back in 2017, it’s still relevant today as an affordable, professional-grade option.

It is based on white structured light technology and offers two 3D capture modes: Fixed Scan and Auto Scan (with a rotating table). The Shining 3D EinScan-SE is a versatile and fast 3D scanner, suitable for a wide range of applications and designed with 3D printing applications in mind.

Metrology 3D scanner selection

3D metrology is the process of acquiring highly accurate physical 3D measurements of an object. The result is a digital 3D model that users can analyze or retro-engineer.

Take quality inspection, for example. Professionals can compare the 3D scan to a reference CAD model to make sure the object respects established norms and standards. 3D metrology helps ensure product quality while saving time and, thus, lowering costs.

Handheld 3D scanner selection

Handheld 3D scanners have been gaining a lot of popularity over the past few years. They offer various benefits over other types of 3D scanners:

  • Ability to access hard-to-reach places
  • Relative ease of use
  • Portability

Their versatility makes them suitable for a wide range of industries, including automobile, aerospace, engineering, and design, and some can even be used for 3D body scanning.

SLAM 3D scanner selection

SLAM (Simultaneous Localization and Mapping) technology allows a device to position itself and navigate through a given space based on its surroundings. Sometimes called CML (Concurrent Mapping and Localization), it was initially developed for robots and autonomous appliances.

In 3D scanning (mobile mapping), SLAM algorithms combine and use the sets of data collected from one or more sources to track the scanner’s position, all while building up an accurate, complete 3D point cloud of the surrounding environment.

SLAM-based 3D scanners can work in extremely remote locations where GPS or GNSS signals are unavailable, and make it easy to quickly 3D scan large areas like building sites and underground caves.

TLS (Terrestrial Laser Scanner) selection

Terrestrial laser scanning (TLS) is a form of 3D scanning in which tripod-mounted laser scanners are used to capture large objects and environments. The technique is widely used in construction, surveying, forestry, and other disciplines.

Also known as long-range laser scanning, TLS involves deploying a scanner in a static location, whereas other laser scanners may be handheld or mounted to vehicles to capture data from a greater number of vantage points. TLS produces more accurate scans than mobile scanning — at the expense of speed and simplicity.

These 3D scanners are often generically called LiDAR scanners, though terrestrial scanners aren’t the only type of scanner to use the technology.

Desktop dental 3D scanner selection

Bit by bit, dentists are beginning to replace traditional methods with digital dentistry. This involves the use of digital capture, digital design, and digital production technologies to improve the speed, accuracy, and profitability of dental practice.

A key part of digital dentistry is the use of 3D scanners, which capture 3D shapes using a combination of cameras and light projection before transferring the result to a computer.

Desktop dental 3D scanners capture dental models or impressions (negative imprints of a patient’s teeth and gums) and are usually used in a laboratory setting.

Jewelry 3D scanner selection

A popular use of 3D scanning technology is jewelry 3D scanning. This is the process of 3D scanning jewelry, precious metals, and gemstones with the goal of creating a digital copy of the original object. The digital twin can be used for many purposes, such as repairing or duplicating a valuable item.

3D scanners have been adopted as a supplementary tool by traditional jewelers, but the technology has also allowed newcomers to enter the field, many of which have combined 3D scanning with jewelry 3D printing.

Most jewelry 3D scanners are enclosed or partly enclosed desktop machines that offer ideal lighting conditions. Desktop jewelry 3D scanners almost always feature an automatic turntable, or auto-rotating table, on which the piece of jewelry is placed to be scanned.

3D body scanner selection

3D body scanners are designed to capture your full body in 3D. The result is a 3D model (or 3D avatar) of your exact body shape with accurate data such as body measurements, posture analysis, textures, …

Originally developed for the fashion industry as fast and accurate 3D measurement solutions, 3D body scanners are now used in various other fields such as healthcare, 3D figurines and 3D photos, fitness, and entertainment.

To obtain a full-body 3D scan, the customer or patient holds a pose for a few seconds, which is the time it takes for the 3D scanner to capture images from all angles. The 3D software then reconstructs the final 3D model of the body by “stitching” all of the images together, generating a highly detailed 3D model. Models can have colors and textures depending on the type of body scanner.

Which 3D scanner is the best for me?

3D scanning can be used in a large variety of fields. For every application, the features necessary to generate a great 3D model are different. The 3D scanner must be chosen according to your desired use and results.

What the best 3D scanner is for you will depend on many factors, detailed below.

3D scanning field of application

The first thing to take into consideration is the field in which the 3D scanner will be used. It could be for example:

Professional use

  • Small objects: dentists, jewelers, and other professionals can use 3D scanning to capture small pieces.
  • Big objects: professionals such as architects and archeologists might need to 3D scan large objects such as statues, archeological fields, or buildings.
  • 3D body scanning is increasingly used in various professional fields such as healthcare and 3D figurines.

Personal use

  • Occasional scanning: A person might need to use 3D scanning on rare occasions or maybe just one time.
  • 3D scanning on a regular basis: You can use 3D scanning for various things from making personalized objects to making a replica of yourself, friends, or family members.

Type of 3D scanned object

Dimensions and distance of the object (scan area and scanning range)

The “best 3D scanner” will depend on the dimensions and the distance of the objects you wish to 3D scan. A desktop 3D scanner can’t 3D scan a 2-meter-tall statue, and a handheld 3D scanner might not be the best option to 3D scan a very small and precise piece.

Surface of the object

Not every 3D scanner is able to capture colors. For color capture, you need a scanner with photogrammetry.

It can also be challenging to capture objects with black, shiny, or reflective surfaces. However, as 3D scanning OEMs fine-tune their technology and hardware, such surfaces are becoming less and less of a challenge. For cases where it is a challenge, it is always possible to use a white mattifying spray.

Desired resolution

Not all 3D scanners offer the same level of resolution. Therefore, depending on the quality you need, some 3D scanner models are more adapted than others. Reverse engineering requires high resolution and precision, for example.

3D scanner recommendations

Desktop 3D scanners

Desktop 3D scanners can be ideal for both professionals and hobbyists that need to scan small parts. They tend to be more accurate since you aren’t holding and moving the 3D scanner around yourself.

Also, many desktop 3D scanners come with (or at least optionally) an automatic turntable, which makes it much easier to get clean 3D scans.

Handheld 3D scanners

Handheld 3D scanners, a.k.a. portable 3D scanners, are versatile and can 3D scan small to very large objects. They also enable users to 3D scan hard-to-reach places. The precision and the ability to capture color and texture will depend on the 3D scanner model.

3D body scanners

3D body scanners have applications in numerous fields.

  • Professionals: professionals might want to 3D scan a person to make a 3D figurine, prepare for a surgical intervention, follow-up on a pregnancy or skin conditions, etc.
  • Individuals: 3D body scanners can help with fitness goals and personal shape. These 3D scanners usually can’t capture color and texture but offer a high resolution.

3D scanning mobile apps

3D scanning mobile apps are ideal for occasional users that are not willing to or are unable to invest in a 3D scanner. They are not as precise as most 3D scanners, but mobile apps are a great way to get familiar with 3D scanning.

3D scanner price

3D scanner prices can range from just several hundred dollars to over $100,000.

Desktop 3D scanner price

Desktop 3D scanner prices vary a lot from one model to another. It can start at a few hundred dollars and can top out at around $50,000 for the more advanced 3D scanners. More industrial-grade, robot-mountable scanners can cost double.

Handheld 3D scanner price

The handheld 3D scanner price range is very wide. A professional handheld 3D scanner can start at around $5,000 and can reach up to over $70,000 for very high-end and advanced 3D scanners.

There are plenty of great entry-level options for a couple of thousand dollars. Mid-range handheld 3D scanners tend to cost between $10,000 and $30,000.

Industrial 3D scanner price

Industrial 3D scanners generally offer more cutting-edge features and higher precision. Hence, their prices can be pretty high, ranging from $10,000 for the simplest ones to more than $100,000 for the most evolved ones.

3D scanning applications

There are many reasons to buy a 3D scanner, for various industries and applications.

Reverse engineering

Reverse engineering, also known as retro-engineering, is the process of extracting information from an object or process and studying it. 3D scanners can be used to capture all the parts of a disassembled object to create a 3D model. The user will then be able to digitally study it in 3D afterward.

Jewelry

Jewelers are starting to use 3D printing and 3D scanning to build casts in order to create amazing jewels. Read more on our 3D printing and 3D scanning for jewelry page.

Dental

Dentists and dental labs are using 3D printing to build and create various dental appliances. Find more information on our 3D printing and 3D scanning for the dental industry.

Medical

3D scanners are very versatile and are used in many different ways in healthcare, from making prosthetics to studying a person’s posture. Find more information in our guide to 3D scanning and 3D printing for the medical industry.

Dental scan
A dental 3D scan by Pierre-Antoine.

Metrology/inspection

Industries need to make sure their factories are producing perfect products that are perfectly in line with the products’ reference dimensions. 3D scanners enable professionals to efficiently measure potential discrepancies.

Figurines and 3D selfies

3D portraits or mini-me’s are increasingly popular. To make one, you scan yourself in 3D and 3D print your mini lookalike. To learn more about the subject, you can visit our 3D printed figurines, 3D selfies, and 3D portraits page.

Architecture

Architects can use 3D scanning to capture an area, building, or habitation and present it in a more efficient way to their clients. Find more information on our 3D scanning and 3D printing for architects page.

Archeology and museums

Archaeologists, museum curators, and researchers are starting to use 3D scanning to get a better view and capture ancient pieces. To read more about this topic, you can visit our 3D printing and 3D scanning in archeology and cultural preservation page.

3D scan of Notre Dame 3d scanning for architecture
A dot cloud of Notre Dame. Source: engadget

Overview of 3D scanning technologies

Photogrammetry

Photogrammetry consists of taking measurements from photographs to recover the exact positions of surface points.

The principle of photogrammetry is to analyze several photographs of a static subject, taken from different viewpoints, and to automatically detect pixels corresponding to the same physical point.

Photogrammetry enables scanners to capture an object’s color (a.k.a. texture). This technology also often serves to detect positioning markers (sticky targets placed on or around the object to help the scanner precisely align scans together).

Structured light

3D scanners using structured light project a series of linear light patterns onto an object.

The system is then able to examine the deformations of each line and to calculate the distance between the 3D scanner and the object’s surface. With this data, the software is able to build an accurate 3D model of the object.

Structured Light infographique. One of the most used 3D scanning technologies.
Structured light 3D scanning technology. Source: Depth Biomecanics

Triangulation

A 3D scanner using triangulation technology will project a laser beam on the object’s surface and measure the deformation of the laser ray (similar to structured light, but with one or more lasers).

3D scanning laser triangulation is a very used 3D scanning technology.
3D scanning laser triangulation technology. Source: NeoMetrix

Contact

Contact 3D scanners probe the subject via physical touch. A touch probe moves along an object’s surface to record 3D information.

For more precise and detailed explanations, you can visit our 3D scanning technologies page.

FAQ

What is the most accurate 3D scanner?

The most accurate 3D scanners are metrology 3D scanners, which generally offer an accuracy of around 20 microns.

Is a 3D scanner worth it?

This is entirely up to how much you will be using your 3D scanner. We can however say that 3D scanning is an impressive technology that does help save a lot of time for product design, reverse engineering, part inspection, and many other use cases.

How much does a good 3D scanner cost?

Again, the definition of “good” is quite subjective in 3D scanning. Some of the best 3D scanners we have reviewed cost between $10,000 and $30,000. But a $5,000 3D scanner can do “good” if its specs meet your requirements.

Is 3D scanning expensive?

Not only is 3D scanning hardware generally expensive, but so are the necessary, professional software solutions. Sometimes, it’s a one-time fee for a permanent license; other times, a monthly or yearly subscription is the only way to access a software suite. And to run such software, you will likely require a powerful, monster of a PC with a lot of RAM and a high-end graphics card. You may also need to buy a tripod or turntable if they aren’t included in your 3D scanner package. All of this can quickly amount to several thousand dollars.

Day-to-day 3D scanning expenses can include cans of mattifying spray and rolls of adhesive markers if you need them. Other than that, aside from potential software subscriptions, there are no extra hidden costs.