The 3D scanner is no longer reserved for a handful of engineering or industrial design professionals.

Today, 3D scanning is accessible to a wider audience, ranging from CAD designers to content creators, including craftsmen, technicians, researchers, and modeling enthusiasts.

But with an ever-expanding range of options and constantly evolving technologies, a natural question arises: how do you choose the right 3D scanner based on your use, skill level, and budget?

This guide offers a clear and structured overview to help you make an informed choice.

Main 3D Scanning Technologies

Structured Light

Structured light projects light patterns (crossed or parallel lines) onto an object to reconstruct its shape. It is one of the most widespread technologies because it offers a good balance between speed, accuracy, and cost.

For optimal performance, it is often combined with another scanning technology, creating a hybrid system capable of accurately scanning both standard surfaces and low-reflectivity areas.

Ideal for: small to medium objects, product design, non-reflective objects

Limitations: challenging on dark, highly reflective, or outdoor surfaces

Here is a selection of some structured light 3D scanners for 2025:

Laser Triangulation

Laser triangulation involves three key elements: a laser emitter, a camera, and the object to be scanned. The laser projects a beam onto the object’s surface, and the camera captures the reflected light.

By analyzing the angles and distance between the laser and camera, the system calculates the exact coordinates of the object’s surface by forming a triangle between these three points to reproduce a 3D model. This is the most precise technology, allowing very fine detail scanning.

Ideal for: industrial applications, reverse engineering, mechanical parts

Limitations: often more expensive, requires markers, not suitable for very large objects

Examples of products using laser triangulation:

Infrared (NIR)

Infrared light scanning works by projecting an invisible pattern onto the object. A camera captures the distortions caused by the surface based on the bounce time of infrared beams. These data are then analyzed to reconstruct the 3D geometry accurately, including texture details.

Less invasive, this type of scanning is often used for organic objects or human forms, particularly in biometrics or medical applications.

Ideal for: scanning human bodies, fragile, textured, or dark objects

Limitations: less precise than laser, dependent on ambient light

Here is a selection of infrared scanning devices:

Photogrammetry

Photogrammetry consists of reconstructing a 3D model from photos taken from different angles. This software-based method provides an initial faithful representation of an object, particularly useful for large or highly textured items.

Combined with 3D laser scanning, it streamlines the scanning process by providing a base model, reducing the time and effort required to achieve a precise and detailed final result.

Ideal for: highly textured or very large objects

Limitations: requires photogrammetric markers and good lighting

The main software used includes: Meshroom, Metashape, RealityCapture

Criteria to Consider Before Buying

Before investing in a 3D scanner, it is essential to evaluate certain criteria to make the right choice based on your practical needs. Here are the main factors to consider:

Object Size to Scan

If you plan to scan large objects, such as car hoods or sculptures, opt for a portable 3D scanner, which is more manageable and often better suited for large volumes.

Required Level of Detail

Scanning accuracy varies greatly between models, ranging from approximately 0.01 mm to 0.3 mm. The higher the level of detail required (for example, for mechanical parts), the more you should prioritize a highly precise model.

Color Scanning or Not?

Not all scanning devices capture color. If you need to faithfully reproduce textures and hues (RGB), make sure to choose a model equipped with a high-performance color camera.

Mobility and Autonomy

Some devices, like the Revopoint Miraco Plus, operate without connection to a computer, with an integrated screen and built-in battery. These models are ideal for professionals on the go or field operations.

Available Budget

3D scanner prices range from €400 to over €20,000, depending on the technologies included, accuracy, scanning speed, and additional features. It is therefore important to clearly define your needs to allocate the right budget.

Spotlight on Three Next-Generation Scanners to Know

Shining 3D Einstar Rockit – Compact, Autonomous, and High-Performance

The Einstar Rockit is a next-generation portable scanning tool designed to combine mobility and precision. Equipped with two modes: blue laser and infrared VCSEL, it delivers fast and detailed scans, even outdoors thanks to its built-in battery and wireless connectivity.

Ideal for: scanning faces, small to medium objects, education, design, reverse engineering, and field applications

Advantages: cable-free operation, interchangeable battery, high capture stability, compatible with Einstar Studio software

Price: excellent value for an autonomous tool from this brand

Creality RaptorX – Hybrid, Powerful, and Accessible

The Creality RaptorX combines three technologies in one device: crossed laser, parallel laser, and NIR light. This versatility allows it to capture objects ranging from 5 mm to 4 meters while maintaining high precision, even on complex surfaces.

Ideal for: medium to large objects, industrial environments, mechanical parts

Advantages: long battery life, fast scanning (60 FPS), 2.3 MP 3D camera

Price: affordable compared to other hybrid scanners on the market

Revopoint Miraco Plus – Autonomous, High Precision, Designed for Mobility

With its 48 MP RGB camera, 180° adjustable screen, and ability to operate without a computer, the Miraco Plus is designed for those who want to scan on the go or in varied environments.

Perfect for: human modeling, fashion, interior scanning, or decorative objects

Key features: scanning accuracy up to 0.04 mm, 2x optical zoom, up to 2 hours operation without recharge

Revopoint MetroX – Standard – Ultra-Precise, Compact, Professional

The MetroX is ideal if you need metrological accuracy, especially for small technical parts. With four scanning modes, it adapts to various needs with high stability.

Accuracy: up to 0.03 mm

Applications: reverse engineering, quality control, jewelry, industrial components

Technologies: structured light, multi-line laser, fast capture up to 7M points/sec

Shining3D: The Benchmark in Industrial 3D Scanning

A Globally Recognized Brand

Shining 3D is recognized for its 3D scanning solutions combining reliability, performance, and accessibility.

Its 3D scanners offer remarkable precision and meet the requirements of metrology, reverse engineering, and quality control sectors.

Comprehensive and High-Performance Solutions

Integrated software, such as EXScan and FreeScan, offers advanced features like real-time visualization, scan undo, and data quality indicators, enabling smooth and precise acquisition.

This hardware and software combination ensures a complete and high-performance user experience, tailored to professional needs.

With a wide range of products covering industrial and medical needs, Shining 3D has established itself as a major player in 3D scanning, offering reliable and high-performance solutions for a multitude of applications.

Enhance Scans with the Right Accessories

Before investing in a 3D scanner, it is essential to evaluate certain factors to make the right choice based on your practical needs. Here are the main points to consider:

Targets or Position Markers

Used with 3D scanners that use structured light or laser, they allow you to accurately track different positions during scanning and improve overall precision, especially on symmetrical or smooth parts. Depending on the object, choose stick-on or magnetic markers.

Matting Spray

Essential for working with shiny, transparent, or dark surfaces. It makes the object more readable by the 3D scanner without unwanted reflections. Choose the matting spray suited to your needs based on the object’s shininess, required action time, etc.

Motorized Turntable

Ideal for small to medium objects, it automates the rotation of the object, ensuring smooth 360° scanning without manual handling.

Stand or Tripod

A stable 3D scanner produces sharper results. An adjustable tripod is crucial, especially for long sessions or fixed objects.

High-Performance Laptop

For recent devices, a good PC with a dedicated GPU is often necessary to process point clouds in real-time. We can provide custom solutions that meet your requirements in terms of data processing.

Complementary Software

Software allows importing and processing data to create CAD models. Advanced tools for mesh repair, automatic alignment, texturing, or CAD export are available in the 3D scanning software below:

In Summary: The Right Scanner is the One That Fits Your Actual Use

Do not rely solely on technical specifications or a brand’s reputation. Before purchasing, take the time to consider your real use:

• What do you plan to scan regularly?
• Do you need extreme accuracy or high speed?
• Do you want to work on the go without depending on a computer?
• Is color capture important for your projects?

Need Personalized Support?

At Polyfab3D, we know that every project is unique. Whether you are a professional seeking a reliable tool or a creative looking to start 3D scanning, our team is here to guide, train, and support you throughout your journey.

Why Choose Polyfab3D?

Tailored Support and Premium After-Sales Service

We do more than just sell 3D scanners. We start with your real needs to recommend the most suitable solution and provide lasting support for implementation, installation, usage, and upgrades.

Trusted Distributor

We carefully select the best brands and models on the market. By choosing us, you benefit from high-quality products, the latest innovations, and above all, responsive and competent technical support.

Fast Delivery, Guaranteed Satisfaction

Your time is valuable: we therefore commit to short delivery times and attentive customer service. Customer satisfaction is our best reward.

Contact us now for a personalized recommendation tailored to your needs, budget, and ambitions.