10 best 3d scanners for beginners For 2021

Thanks to 3D printing technology, anyone can print anything nowadays even in the comfort of their home. As if that wasn’t enough, you can make your 3D printer more potent by introducing best 3D scanner. This device can analyze a real-world object and collect data on its overall appearance, shape, and form. In other words, a 3D scanner can take a detailed scan of virtually any object and create a computer model that your 3D printer can then recreate with speed and ease.

3D scanners come in all shapes, sizes, prices, and even capabilities. While this guarantees every buyer something that will suit their needs, it can make the selection process a bit daunting. We have reviewed some of the best 3D scanners available in the market today that cater to different needs and fit different budgets. The list is not exhaustive but it is a great place to get started with your shopping.

1. HE3D Ciclop DIY 3D Systems Scanner Kit for 3D Printer Advanced Laser Scanner.

If you’re looking to get into 3D scanning, open-source hardware and software is the perfect way to get started as it allows for new updates in the future. The HE3D Ciclop is a fully open-source laser scanner so users can freely download and use the software; plus, all of the code information on mechanical design, electronics, and software are freely available to modify in a way that suits you best.

The HE3D Ciclop 3D scanner also features a rotative platform and will scan nearly anything that can fit on the rotating platform. With two-line lasers on each end of the platform, you will be able to scan objects with great precision while being able to manipulate any details like resizing and repositioning. However, note that several factors, including the scanned object, light, and environment, will affect the scan result.

This is a full kit for the 3D scanner, including an integrated motherboard, frame, motor and more for quick and easy assembly, making it a great option for any DIY enthusiast. Other key features include a turntable, a webcam, the ability to connect with USB 2.0, and injection molding red plastics parts that makes it more beautiful.

Seeing as the price is usually a huge determinant when making any purchase, we have started this list with the best cheap 3D scanner for you to consider. At around $140, this DIY high-resolution 3D scanner doesn’t cost as much as you would for professional equipment while not compromising on quality.

2. XYZprinting Full Color Handheld 3D Scanner 1.0 Pro.

One of the best portable scanners in the market that is worth checking is the XYZprinting handheld 3D scanner. It is powered by Intel RealSense that uses advanced scanning technology, similar to structured light, to offer the most detailed and accurate 3D scans. Thanks to its compact and lightweight design, using the XYZprinting is as simple as gliding it over the desired object.

This device allows you to scan in 4 different modes so you get the best possible results. The mask mode, for starters, is ideal for scanning faces while the head mode is for full heads, object mode is for scanning static objects, and body mode for 3D scanning bodies.

The scanning distance is wide, accurate, and reliable; not to mention, the device provides full-color capture. You can connect the device into any USB device (computers, tablets, etc) and easily transfer scanned files for editing and 3D printing.

With real-time scanning, you will be able to check the full-color image simultaneously on your computer/laptop as you scan, to ensure every detail is captured correctly.

The scanner uses the exclusive XYZscan software that has an institutive UI design and automatically detects speed and distance, thus allowing users to scan easily and faster. Additionally, XYZprinting handheld 3D scanner features XYZScan Handy; this is a scanning and post-editing software that allows users to edit files after scanning.

3. SIMAX3D Desktop-Scale Light Color Array Block Education 3D Scanner with Turntable.

This device by SIMAX3D is another 3D scanner for home use that will doubtlessly satisfy you. It is useful for a number of applications in art and design, higher education institutions, animation, data technology, 3D printing, and so on.

The SIMAX3D desktop 3D scanner supports two scanning modes: auto scan and free scan. The former will allow you to scan objects that measure up to 220 mm³ using the rotating turntable while free 3D scan models allow you to scan larger objects of up to 740 mm³. All this is achieved efficiently and fast with the scanning speed of a single frame being 6s when using the free scan mode and 2 minutes when using the automatic scanning mode of the turntable.

This device is one of the viable and easy to understand 3D scanners in the market. It provides simple automatic calibration without the need for complicated prep work.

This is thanks to its software, which is capable of performing automatic data alignment and fusion without needing third-party software. Mesh editing features are added to help smoothen and sharpen digital models.

Users can expect high-quality 3D scanning services as the device scans three-dimensional data in high definition and with high precision.

4. Shining 3D EinScan White Light Desktop 3D Scanner, Lowest Cost Professional Level 3D Scanner.

Shining 3D is known for making high-quality medium-range 3D scanners with their cheaper option being the EinScan-SE. This device offers a well-rounded package for beginners looking to get acquainted with 3D scanning and produce quality scans with minimal hassle. It’s characterized by its user-friendliness and short scanning time, and automates most of the process, thus allowing any user to quickly 3D scan and produce a CAD model.

The EinScan-SE is designed to scan small to medium-sized objects using structured light technology. It also offers two scan modes:  auto scan and free scan. The former will allow you to scan objects that measure up to 200 mm³ using the rotating turntable while free 3D scan models allow you to scan larger objects of up to 700 mm³.

The EinScan-SE takes about 8 seconds to complete a single scan and about 2 minutes to complete a 360° scan when using the automatic scan mode. It comes with a 1.3 megapixel 3d scanning camera that’s able to detect and capture a range of colors and textures of the object being scanned. This 3D scanner is also capable of capturing small and intricate details of an object in high resolution with an accuracy level of 0.1mm. You can mount this 3D scanner on a camera tripod to produce the most accurate and steady scans.

5. 2021 Shining3D [EinScan Pro 2X Plus] + [HD Prime 2X Plus] Handheld 3D Scanner with Solid Edge CAD Software for Reverse Engineering.

If you’re looking for 3D scanners for professional use with suitable workflows and powerful software to go along with, consider the EinScan Pro 2X Plus. This device is designed for versatile applications in industrial design and manufacturing, engineering, auto, healthcare & custom, art and design, and even human form acquisition.

Another great thing about this 3D scanner is the new and improved scanning software that offers a new UI and simplified workflow, thus allowing for a faster scanning experience with intuitive navigation. Users are also able to set the resolution during data processing, which in turn, improves scanning efficiency.

Once the 3D scan is complete, the Solid Edge SHINING 3D Edition” software is also meant to offer re-meshing and design tools, including convergent modeling, synchronous modeling, reverse engineering, generative design, simulation, and additive manufacturing.

The EinScan Pro 2X Plus allows for four scan modes: Handheld HD Scan, Handheld Rapid Scan, Fixed Scan with Turntable, and Fixed Scan without Turntable. Each mode is best suited for a particular application; therefore, it’s important to choose the right scan mode to produce high-quality results in terms of efficiency, data resolution, and accuracy.

The different scan modes enable users to capture 3D models of small to large size objects with high efficiency while displaying the exact color, details, size, and even texture.

6. Matter & Form Mfs1V2 3D Scanner V2 +Quickscan, 65 Second Scans, Black.

Another popular 3D scanner that boasts outstanding price to performance ratio is the Mfs1V2 3D Scanner by Matter and Form. It comes with a range of great features that will quickly turn beginners to professionals. It is the perfect 3D printing companion as it integrates seamlessly into your workflow, allowing you to scan, mesh, and export your creation.

For starters, it uses laser triangulation technology to produce high-resolution 3D scans in full-color. It is also powered by Matter and Form’s MFStudio software that allows users to go through their 3D projects with ease and provides up to 0.1 mm accuracy.

It additionally gives you total control over your scanning setup, thus achieving great results. You can give your Mfs1V2 3D Scanner a boost with the included +Quickscan upgrade. This software lets you complete geometry in as little as 65 seconds.

The Mfs1V2 3D Scanner comes in a modern, foldable design that lets you collapse it down when not in use to avoid a messy workplace, as well as for easy portability. It also has an integrated case that will protect the turntable and the camera.

You can easily connect this device to your computer through USB to transfer your scans over. It supports both Windows and Mac and has multiple export capability for 3D printing.

7. Shining3D [ EinScan-SP ] White Light Desktop 3D Scanner with Solid Edge SHINING3D Edition CAD Software.

Another great 3D scanner for home use by Shining3D is the EinScan-SP.  This device makes it to this list for its cost-effectiveness given the premium features it comes with.

It utilizes structured light technology and Solid Edge SHINING3D Edition CAD software to make accurate scans of small, medium, and large objects. It also offers two scan modes:  auto scan and fixed scan. The former will allow you to scan objects that measure up to 200 mm³ using the rotating turntable while the latter allows you to scan larger objects of up to 1200 mm³. The EinScan-SP takes about 4 seconds to complete a single scan and about a minute to complete a 360° scan under auto-scan mode.

This 3D scanner is capable of detecting and capturing a range of colors and textures of the object being scanned, as well as captures intricate details of an object in high resolution with an accuracy level of 0.05mm.

No rigid set-up is required when using this scanner as there are multiple ways of alignment thanks to the automatic turntable that’s covered with markers. The calibration panel also bears markers on one side while the other side is totally white, which makes it suitable for the calibration of the 3D scanner and for performing white balance adjustments.

The package includes a camera tripod so you can mount the 3D camera on and produce the most accurate and steady scans.

8. [EinScan Pro 2X ] + [ Industrial Pack -Tripod and Turntable ] Shining3D Multi-Functional Handheld 3D Scanner. Brand: Shining 3D EinScan

The EinScan Pro 2X is a new and improved version of the EinScan Pro model, making it one of the best 3D scanners for professional use. It is designed for both individual and business applications, including in craftsmanship, testing, assembling, building, and even scanning humans.

The EinScan Pro 2X is capable of scanning small to medium-sized objects at an incredibly high speed and with high efficiency while displaying the exact color, details, size, and even texture. It also boasts a higher single scan range, working distance, point distance, and accuracy levels depending on scanning mode.

It features new and improved software that offers a new UI and simplified workflow, thus allowing for a faster scanning experience with intuitive navigation. Users are also able to set the resolution during data processing, which in turn, improves scanning efficiency.

This device offers four different scanning modes (Handheld HD Scan, Handheld Rapid Scan, Fixed Scan with Turntable, and Fixed Scan without Turntable) with various optional accessories. Each mode is best suited for a particular application; therefore, it’s important to choose the right scan mode to produce high-quality results in terms of efficiency, data resolution, and accuracy.

Once the 3D scan is complete, the Solid Edge SHINING 3D Edition” software is also meant to offer re-meshing and design tools, including convergent modeling, synchronous modeling, reverse engineering, generative design, simulation, and additive manufacturing.

9. Wiiboox Multifunctional White Light Desktop 3D Scanner, 0.1mm Accuracy, Automatic Turntable Scanning.

Wiiboox is one of the best-selling white light 3D scanners and with good reasons. It uses structured light to scan virtually every object, regardless of color, texture, and the influence from the surrounding environment, thus offering the most detailed and accurate 3D scans. It’s best suited for 3D scanning small parts measuring from 30mm x 30mm x 30mm to 200mm x 150mm x 150mm.

This device has intuitive software that offers automatic turntable calibration & scanning, as well as alignment and meshing. The single-shot accuracy on this device can reach 0.05mm, which is pretty impressive given its price. The scan speed is, however, not the best as it takes about 3 min for the turntable to scan one circle.

It allows you to perform simple settings beforehand to get the best possible outcome for your needs. For starters, you will be able to choose a suitable degree of details and brightness before you start scanning and even scan the object from multiple positions. It also supports 24-bit color scanning for capturing different texture details.

The Wiiboox Multifunctional desktop 3D scanner is compatible with 3D printers. All you have to do is export your 3D scans for 3D printing trends using a suitable output format (STL, ASC, OBJ, PLY, VTK, OFF).

This device has a foldable design for portability and storage, which is a huge plus considering it’s a large 3D scanner.

10. Thunk3D: Dental 3D Scanner 15μm Impression-Die-Occlusion-Free Software.

Dental 3D scans can be useful in the production of prostheses and aligners, as well as surgical planning among other things. One of the best dental 3D scanners is the Thunk3D T300 as it focuses on providing accurate and efficient solutions in restorations, orthodontics, and implant cases. This device can be applied at different levels of dental clinics, dental laboratories, dental vocational colleges, and so on.

It utilizes the latest structured light technology to capture dental models or impressions, which are then turned into digital 3D files called meshes. These meshes can then be 3D printed after adjustment with the in-built software (compatible with CAD/CAM software). It also has an intuitive design that allows for automatic work-flow, thus bringing incredible benefits in the dental market.

The Thunk3D T300 has different scanning modes, including bite scan, die scan, impression scan, and item scan. The bite mode can meet different needs while the impression scan allows for three types of functions (triple tray, wax bite, and registered jaw). The scan speed is 1 F/P while frame accuracy is 15μm.

Conclusion

Having known the usefulness of 3D scanners in design, gaming, 3D printing, digital dentistry, and more applications, it only makes sense to get one for your needs. The above list is not exhaustive as there are many more great options that you can choose from. Be sure to check all the necessary specifications and features before you make a purchase so you get what you really need. Let us know in the comment section what your experience is with these or other 3D scanners. Good luck shopping!

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