A Review of 7 Best High Resolution 3D Scanners For Small Objects in 2021

It can be quite challenging to find a 3D scanner that suits your needs. Do not sweat it because we are here to give you the guidance you need on best high resolution 3D scanners. After conducting extensive research, we can confidently tell you that the 3D scanners highlighted below are worthy of your consideration.

All featured 3D scanners have their distinguishing characteristics such as price point, technology or a mixture of other factors. There are 3 types of 3D scanners.

Desktop Type: they are the best when it comes to scanning small and medium-sized objects. They have a footprint mount that enables you to fit them on a desktop.

Handheld Scanners: they are portable and lightweight. They are the ideal option for both body and object scans due to their adaptability. You use your hands when operating them because of their size.

Industrial Scanners: they are used by professionals due to their high quality. They feature designs, shapes and high precision for quality output.

Handheld 3D Scanners are becoming more and more popular in this fast-growing market. These devices offer various advantages compared to other kinds of 3D scanners–their relative ease of use, portability, and their ability to access the hard-to-reach places.

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Today, the market is full of different 3D scanners that come in all sizes, prices, shapes, and capabilities. While this is a great thing, it can make getting the right product a daunting task.

We have done the homework for you and come up with a list of some of the best 3D scanners to get you started. Each product comes with its own distinguishing features, price point, technology, or a combination of factors. We may not have covered all 3D scanners but you can also check this list of 92 3D scanning items.

1. [EinScan Pro 2X Plus] and [HD Prime 2X Plus] – Scanner with Lifetime Solid Edge CAD Software.

The EinScan Pro 2X Plus is an improvement of the EinScan-Pro+. This structured 3D scanner comes with a solid edge shining 3D design software and is suitable for a variety of professional applications including simulation, reverse engineering, and generative design. Use this gadget to scan medium to large-sized 3D objects or gadgets that you may need to model. For much smaller objects, Shinning 3D recommends the EinScan Pro 2X.

This compact and lightweight device supports 4 scanning styles with various extra accessories; single scan radius of between 208 x 136 and 312 x 204 mm; 1.5M points per second/30fps; single-shot scan extending from 0.04mm to 0.1mm based on scanning style; a working distance of 5.1m

Enhanced software coupled with new UI and operation technique can position the resolution preference after scanning, and during data conversion to allow faster scanning. Also available are mesh editing features like smoothing, sharpening, and hole filling.

Optional add-ons (Not included) that make the 3D scanner adaptable to different user needs include HD Prime 2X Plus (for rapid HD scanning mode), Color Pack 2X Plus (for full-color 3D scanning), and Industrial Pack 2X Series (with an automatic turntable).

Pros

•    4 scanning modes

•    Compact and lightweight

•    Mesh editing features like sharpening, hole filling, and smoothing added

•    Multi-functional

•    Improved software

Cons

•    Require the color pack to capture the texture

2. 2019 New Shining3D – For Reverse Engineering People Scanning Art Design Education Healthcare

Just like other Shinning 3D handheld 3D scanner models, the EinScan Pro 2X scanner is both compact and lightweight, making it portable and exceedingly versatile.

This device is an improvement of the EinScan-Pro and is perfect for examining small to medium-sized objects. It provides 4 scanning styles with a variety of optional add-ons; single-shot scan precision ranging from 0.04mm to 0.1mm based on scanning style; Single scan ranging between 130 x 100mm – 225 x 170 mm; 1.5M points per second/30fps; Working distance of 4m.

It also offers several alignment modes including markers alignment, manual alignment, feature alignment, and turntable coded targets alignment.

With its Solid Edge Shinning 3D design software, this structured 3D scanner is ideal for a variety of professional applications including simulation, generative design, and reverse engineering.

Optional add-on packs (NOT INCLUDED) are available to make the scanner adaptable to different user needs: Color Pack 2X (for full-color 3D scanning) and the Industrial Pack 2X Series (with an automatic turntable)

Pros

•    Multi-functional

•    Mesh editing features available

•    Improved software for faster scanning

•    FREE Worldwide Global WARRANTY from Shining

•    Compact and lightweight

•    4 scanning styles

Cons

•    You will have to buy the color pack separately if you want to achieve a full-color 3D scanning

3. EinScan-SE White Light Desktop– The Lowest Cost Professional Level 3D Scanner

Shinning 3D’s EinScan-SE White Light Desktop 3D Scanner is a next-generation Desktop 3D scanner with multiple functions.  This handheld 3D scanner scans at a speed of 8 sec/ 2 min, with Fixed/ Auto scan feature, single Shot for Accuracy, Manual Alignment style for Fixed Scan, and Turnable/ Manual Alignment style for Auto-Scan. These multiple scanning modes ensure maximum quality at all times.

The automatic software in this device ensures the scan starts by one simple click. It has automatic calibration and no rigid set-up is required. The auto-alignment and fusion allow for generating a mesh directly.

Single-shot size is 200mm x150mm, maximum volume for a fixed scan is 700x700x700, auto scan of 200mm x 200mm x 200mm, Lowest scan volume of:30mm x 30mm x 30mm, single-shot accuracy <0.1 mm. You get 1-year manufacturer warranty, coupled with lifetime support if you buy this item.

Pros

•    Automatic software

•    Multiple ways of alignment ensure maximum quality

•    Multiple functions

•    High scanning speeds of 8 sec/ 2 min

. 1-year manufacturer warranty

Cons

•    Several users didn’t have a pleasant encounter with the support team at EinScan

4. Einscan Pro 2X Plus Multi-Functional 3D Scanner with Color Pack

Just like other portable 3D scanner models from Einscan the Pro 2X Plus Multi-Functional 3D Scanner with Color Pack is highly portable and versatile and offers high-precision results. It is ideal for scanning 4 inches to 13 ft objects (medium to large-sized).

If you are looking for high-quality 3D modeling, then this is the scanner for you. It has high compatibility with standard file-formats including P3, STL, OBJ, 3MF, ASC and PLY.

This scanner supports Fixed Scan with no Turntable, Handheld HD Scan, Fixed Scan with Turntable styles, and Handheld Rapid Scan, and comes with multiple alignment modes including manual alignment, markers alignment, feature alignment, and turntable coded targets alignment.

Its modular design enables it to perform a wider variety of applications. The non-compulsory packs include: color pack for color texture scanning (included), Industrial pack for fixed scan mode (purchased separately), and HD Prime Pack for HD scan mode.

The enhanced software coupled with new UI and operation style enables you to position the resolution preference after scanning and during data conversion to allow faster scanning. Also included are mesh editing qualities like sharpening, smoothing, and hole filling.

Pros

•    Highly portable and versatile

•    High-precision results

•    Ideal for medium to large-sized objects

•    High compatibility with different standard file formats

•    Multiple alignment modes

•    Comes with improved software

•    Has mesh editing features

Cons

•    You will have to purchase the industrial pack separately if you want to use the fixed scan mode

5. Matter & Form Mfs1V2 3D Scanner V2 +Quickscan, Black

Unlock your 3D scanning potential and experience the feeling of watching your objects become digitized right before your eyes. Designed to transform novices into professionals, the Matter & Form 3D Scanner is supported on both Mac and Windows, has multiple export potential for 3D printing, VR, and AR, and gives you up to 0.1 mm precision.

This 3D scanner is equipped with mfstudio + quickscan software and gives you complete geometry in less than 65 seconds. What’s more, it integrates seamlessly into your workflow. Just scan, mesh, and then export your creation, which can be used with any given 3D printer.

The Matter & Form 3D Scanner comes in a sleek and foldable design that makes it easy for you to store your scanner and keep the workplace clean and neat. An integrated case safeguards both the camera and the turntable.

Pros

•    Sleek and foldable design

•    Equipped with mfstudio + quickscan software

•    Integrates seamlessly into your workflow

•    Supported on both Mac and Windows

•    Multiple export potential

Cons

•    One user claimed he wasn’t able to edit and correct the finished product

•    May not work well with carved items

6. MakerBot Digitizer Desktop 3D Scanner.

Quickly turn the objects around you into 3D designs that you can modify, 3D print, improve, and share. The MakerBot Digitizer comes with MarkerWare software that is simple, yet sophisticated to help produce clean, watertight 3D objects with just two clicks.

Besides, the whole process has been optimized to work coherently with the MakerBot Replica Desktop 3D Printer, though you can get standard model files that you can use on any 3D printer of your choice. The scanning happens in approximately 12 minutes, and guess what? You don’t need any 3D modeling or design skills to get started.

This 3D scanner outputs ordinary 3D file formats to allow you to improve, mold, shape, animate, twist, and transform designs in a 3rd party 3D modeling program.

With its MakerBot MultiScan technology, you will be able to scan targets from multiple angles and be able to capture the bottom, top and hidden parts of the object. You could then join them together to make the best possible 3D design. It is able to digitize concrete objects of up to 3kg (6.6 lbs), 8″ tall, and up to 8″ in diameter.

Pros

•    Scans objects in minutes

•    Includes MakerWare software that creates watertight, clean 3D designs with just two clicks

•    Multiscan technology to scan from multiple angles

Cons

•    Very lightweight and feels cheap

•    No sharp angles

7. 3D Systems SENSE2 3D SCANNER (350470)

Connect your digital and physical worlds with the SENSE2 3D SCANNER. This device gives you instant access to scans of concrete objects in the digital world, with additional software to produce a “watertight” 3Dmodel.

This 3D scanner uses the RealSense technology that gives a closer scan range as well as higher resolution compared to previous generation devices. It works seamlessly with Windows 8 and 10.

Practical and user-friendly, this scanner is lightweight and makes your scanning process easy and streamlined. What’s more, its scanning volume is expansive, which makes scanning objects simple and efficient regardless of the size.

Pros

•    Other than the affordable price, users haven’t said so many good things about this 3D scanner

Cons

•    Most users had a bad experience with this scanner, terming it as horrible and useless

There you have it; 7 of the best 3D scanners on the market. We hope you can now cut through the clutter and find the right device for your needs.

Below is a comprehensive buyer’s guide to help you find the 3D scanner that matches your unique needs.

How to Choose the Best 3D Scanner for Your Lifestyle?

Any purchasing decisions we make are greatly influenced by our lifestyles. Because 3D scanners are used in most career fields, you want to go for a 3D scanner that will give you maximum value from the services it offers. Your specific needs will guide you in on how to choose a 3D scanner that will help you meet them.

For example, a game developer who wants to create game assets will not only be interested in high-resolution mesh but also the object’s texture. This will most likely result in them using photogrammetry.

If you wish to 3D print something that you saw in reality, you will definitely be interested in the particular measurements of the object. In this case, a 3D scanner based on structured light will be the obvious choice. It is also important for you to quickly decide the location you will use to 3D scan your objects.

If the objects are a bit small, you can 3D scan them at home or at your office and use a handheld or stationary 3D scanner. Here are some scanner features and the best products you can consider when looking for a 3D scanner that can meet your lifestyle needs.

Special Features to Look Out for When Buying 3D Scanners

As we have already established, it is important for you as a buyer to match you needs against the features of the 3D scanner you wish to purchase. Here are special features you need to look out for.

Use and Application

The first step is for you to establish whether you are buying your 3D scanner for personal or professional use. For personal use, you need a scanner that suits your usage frequency. When looking for a scanner for professional use, consider the size of the scanner as well as your field of specialization.

The Object You Want To Scan in 3D

The type of 3D scanner you buy is greatly determined by the object you want to scan. Here are object features that you should consider before making a purchase.

Object distance and dimension: the best 3D scanner will scan the object depending on its distance and dimension. You need to choose a perfect shape and size scanner which matches the object you intend to scan.

Object surface: you should go for quality 3D scanners that have this feature in place when you want to capture additional features of the object you are scanning like color and texture.

Price: Most buyers use price to determine the quality of a product. Therefore, if you want the best 3D scanner and money is not an issue for you, you should set aside enough budgetary allocation for the scanner.

However, if you are operating on a tight budget, you should consider buying a scanner that costs less. Before you reach a final decision, ensure that you get the best deal and the best brand from your dealer.

Technical Specs

Here are some of the technical specifications you need to consider when buying a 3D scanner:

Speed: however powerful a 3D object scanner is, it takes more time to scan big objects compared to smaller objects. This is the same case when it comes to scanning human beings.

If your profession requires you to scan big objects, you need to buy high-speed scanners for you to enjoy high resolution and maximum work efficiency.

Resolution: 3D scanners differ in terms of resolution based on their quality and model. Therefore, if you want to achieve high quality resolution for your scanned objects, you need software that is highly functioning.

Software: the software which is supported by your 3D scanner is a very important feature that contributes towards the quality and performance speed of the scanner.

You, therefore, need to ensure that your scanner has highly functioning software for you to get maximum performance. You also need to constantly update the software so that you stay in tune with the latest trends.

Conclusion

In this day and age, there is overwhelming evidence that 3D scans are a solution in almost every field. Therefore, 3D scanners have become problem solvers and have utmost value to humanity.

Apart from helping people identify defaults in human beings, these scanners also help people recognize irregularities in their surroundings and take steps to act accordingly.

The current trends will, however, not end there. With the advancement of science and technological trends in scanning, people are likely to begin scanning themselves with their phones.

Because scans are completely safe, you only need to get the best quality for you to be able to benefit from the entire package.

The above guide will enable you to know what to look for when you are shopping for a 3D scanner. Do not be left out when your friends go for high quality 3d scanners, find your best option today!

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