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Best Budget 3D Scanners Buyers Guide Main Image

Best Budget 3D Scanners 2024


After testing and reviewing various 3D scanners over the years, we are compiling a detailed guide on the best budget 3D scanners available on the market. The rise in new, affordable 3D scanning solutions is exciting news for enthusiasts and professionals alike. Let’s take a look at what’s on the market, highlighting budget-friendly products, and discussing some innovative and desirable features in this field. As usual, we will keep adding more such devices for comparison and feature the newest solutions, aiming to meet the needs of both hobbyists and professionals in this area.


This Guide Covers

Advancement of 3D Scanning Technology

3D scanning has changed a lot since it started in the 1960s. Early scanners were big, expensive, and mainly for industry and science. Now, they’re smaller, cheaper, and more people can use them. Early scanners required physical contact, but today’s advanced versions use lasers and lights to scan objects without touching them. This progress has made 3D scanning useful in many areas like making things, healthcare, movies, and saving historical items.

What to Consider When Buying a Handheld 3D Scanner?

There aren’t many companies that make affordable handheld 3D scanners, but those that do try to offer different types for different needs. These scanners are made with certain tasks in mind, so whether you’re doing this for custom projects, for teaching, or for work, you should be able to find a scanner that suits what you need to do. Here is what to consider when buying a handheld 3D scanner?
– Scanning Range and Object Volume. Different scanners are optimized for different sizes, from small components to larger objects. For small items, there are scanners that work with a turntable from Amazon to spin the item around and scan it from every side, giving a detailed capture. Then, there are scanners made for big things, full-size human bodies, furniture, or even cars, which can scan large areas accurately.
– Material and Color Capabilities. Most budget scanners may struggle with shiny, transparent, or dark surfaces. There can be a learning curve and extra accessories like scanning spray from Amazon may be required to assist with some of the scanning jobs.
– Accuracy and Resolution. Determine the level of detail and precision you need for your projects. Higher accuracy and resolution are crucial for professional-grade applications.
– Skills and Software. Mastering the skill of capturing the object is essential to receiving the best result. However, additional tools may be required to prepare (edit, clean) the object for 3D printing, for example. When buying a 3D scanner, it is also recommended to investigate the manufacturer’s software features and possibilities.


The Best Budget 3D Scanners

In due time, we will keep updating this list by adding new products that we have tested or spotted at trade shows.

Revopoint POP3 Plus NEW

Price: $611-$684
Product links:

Revopoint POP 3 Plus

Amazon

AliExpress

Official Website

The latest addition to the POP family of 3D scanners, the Revopoint POP 3 offers full-color texture scanning with a 0.05mm single-frame precision and a minimum scan volume of 20 x 20 x 20 mm. The POP 3 can capture between 12-18 frames per second and is compatible with the free Revo Scan 5 software, which is capable of post-processing point cloud data and creating 3D print-ready models.

Revopoint POP 3 and Scanned Objects
Revopoint POP 3 and Scanned Objects
©3DWithUs – Photo and Scan: Andrew Sink

The POP 3 is ideal for 3D printing hobbyists and users interested in creating 3D models for 3D printing, where color is a nice-to-have but not the primary factor in selecting a scanner. Creating 3D models is a straight-forward process thanks to the simplified user interface of Revo Scan 5, and it’s easy to get started with 3D scanning shortly after unboxing the scanner and getting it set up. Unfortunately, the color texture created by the POP 3 lacks detail and makes it difficult for me to recommend this scanner to anyone interested in capturing and recreating vibrant colors or detailed textures. The touch-sensitive controls on the rear of the scanner make it easy to use, and it’s clear that this scanner will be a good fit for users who are new to 3D scanning.

Read more and images:
Revopoint POP3 Review by Andrew Sink.
Revopoint POP3 Plus (2024) Review by Andrew Sink.

Revopoint Mini and Inspire

Price: $435-$912
Revopoint Mini 2 Revopoint Inspire

Read more and images:
Revopoint Mini Review by Andrew Sink.
Revopoint Inspire Review by Andrew Sink.

Revopoint Range

Price: $639-$879
Revopoint Range 3D Scanner

eBay
Amazon
Official Website

The Revopoint Range is a lightweight, easy-to-use 3D scanner that is designed to quickly scan large objects and capture full-color textures. The most recent Kickstarter success from Revopoint, the Range raised over $2.6 million and is now commercially available and can be purchased directly from the Revopoint site. The Range has a capture speed of between 12 – 18 FPS, and can be used to capture the geometry of large objects and stitch together the points into a 3D mesh model using the Revo Scan 5 software.

Revopoint Range 3D scanning a brick wall
Scanning with the mobile app
©3DWithUs – Photo: Andrew Sink
Scanned Human
Human Scan Preview
Screenshot: Revo Scan 5

Using the Range in mobile mode makes capturing scans of people easy, and it’s easy to imagine creative entrepreneurs like wedding party photographers offering 3D scans of people as an on-demand service. The Revo Scan 5 software is capable of fast and accurate mesh processing, and the additional tools like hole filling, floating point isolation, and mesh simplification make it powerful enough to be the only app a user would need to generate a 3D model with the scanner.

Read more:
Revopoint Range Review by Andrew Sink.


3DMakerPro Lynx

Price: $459-649
Product links:

3DMakerPro Lynx 3D Scanner, Case, Turntable and Software

Amazon
Official Website

Introducing the 3DMakerPro Lynx, a 3D scanner designed to precisely capture larger items. This cutting-edge technology tool underscores 3DMakerPro’s commitment to providing affordable solutions for both beginners and non-professionals keen to venture into the world of 3D scanning without stretching their budget.

3DMakerPro Lynx Premium Package
3DMakerPro Lynx Premium Package
©3DWithUs – Photo: Will Zoobkoff

The 3DMakerPro Lynx is a cost-effective and convenient 3D scanner designed for casual users and enthusiasts. Priced at $450, it boasts impressive features and is an excellent choice for those venturing into 3D scanning on a budget. Due to its simplicity and affordability, it’s a superb option for individuals eager to learn more about 3D scanning.

Read more:
3DMakerPro Lynx Review by Will Zoobkoff.

Creality CR-Scan Ferret Pro

Price: $418-449
Product links:

Creality CR-Scan Ferret Pro

Amazon
AliExpress
Official Website

Creality, a well-known brand in 3D printing, a few years ago, launched the Lizard and Ferret series 3D scanners. The Creality CR-Scan Ferret Pro is the newest 3D scanner from the Ferret series. It now supports Mac, iOS, as well as Windows and Android. The CR-Scan Lizard, the oldest model, is still sold as a luxury bundle as it includes a turntable and color kit accessories. Find more scanners on their official website.

Creality CR-Scan Ferret Pro and Scanned Object
Creality CR-Scan Ferret Pro and Scanned Object
©3DWithUs – Photo and Print: Richard Hirst

In terms of affordability, I was pleasantly surprised by the price range of the Creality Ferret Pro. It offers excellent value for the quality it delivers. Investing in this product ensures that you obtain a reliable and accurate 3D scanning solution without breaking the bank. In conclusion, my experience with the Creality Ferret Pro has been positive, and it was fun to use and learn what a 3D scanner can do.

Read more:
Creality CR-Scan Ferret Pro Review by Richard Hirst.


Revopoint MIRACO

Price: $1,300 – $1,919
Product links:

Revopoint MIRACO 3DWithUs Editor's Picks Award

Amazon
Official Website

With a base price of $1,299 and $1,599 for the MIRACO Pro, the MIRACO is not an inexpensive 3D scanner in the prosumer 3D printer space. With an appearance and feature set more closely resembling professional 3D scanners that sell for more than $10,000, the Revopoint MIRACO is clearly designed for prosumers and technical experts looking for a portable 3D scanner.

Revopoint MIRACO 3D Scanner and Scanned Results
Revopoint MIRACO 3D Scanner and Scanned Results
©3DWithUs – Photo and Scan: Andrew Sink

The Revopoint MIRACO offers a polished user experience, and I was impressed with not only the results of the scanner but also at the ease-of-use when editing scans on the integrated touchscreen. After using the mobile version of the Revo Scan app with the Revopoint Range, I was left wanting a scanner that could be used in the field without an additional device for feedback, a handheld grip, a USB battery, and a pair of cables connecting everything. The MIRACO provides exactly this and offers both Near Mode and Far Mode scanning in addition to color textures. During testing, the MIRACO was capable of capturing everything from small models all the way up to furniture and many objects in between.

Read more:
Revopoint MIRACO 3D Scanner Review by Andrew Sink.


Innovations and Other Features

All-in-One Solution

Revopoint has effectively created an all-in-one solution with the MIRACO, which will likely be a popular selection among consumers looking for a turnkey portable scanner that doesn’t require additional hardware or software to operate. Less expensive scanners like the Revopoint POP 3 or Revopoint Mini are still a popular choice but require a computer or phone to operate and may be less intuitive.

Handheld Revopoint Scanner
Revopoint MIRACO Scanner
©3DWithUs – Photo: Andrew Sink

Hybrid Blue Laser & NIR

Creality RaptorX
Price: $2,999-4,599
Product links:
Creality RaptorX

Official Website

Creality, a highly recognized brand in the 3D printing industry, has unveiled a groundbreaking hybrid laser scanner, the first of its kind globally. This innovative device integrates Blue Laser and NIR (near-infrared) technology to achieve metrology-grade precision. Additionally, it boasts a rapid scanning capability, processing over a million points per second, which significantly enhances its efficiency and performance.

BFCM Deal - 28%

Creality RaptorX

Creality RaptorX

Hybrid Blue Laser & NIR Scanner

Creality RaptorX >>

More Less

This development is thrilling as high-grade 3D scanners, which have been prohibitively expensive for many years — costing between $20,000 and $60,000 — may now become more accessible. These devices could appeal to small business owners and professionals, making advanced scanning technology desirable and attainable for a broader audience.

Where to Find The Latest 3D Scanning Technology

To get an in-depth view of the latest in 3D scanning technology, attending events such as Formnext, TCT 3Sixty, or similar trade shows featuring on 3D printing is highly recommended. These events showcase the newest products and breakthroughs in the 3D scanning sector, covering both consumer and industrial markets.

3D Scanning at TCT3Sixty
3D Scanning at TCT 3Sixty
Full-body scanning at Revopoint booth; State-of-the-art measuring and scanning device TrackScan by T3DMC; Crime scene setup by Central Scanning
Photos: Max Funkner
Max Funkner and Scanned Face
Max Funkner got his face scanned at the 3DMakerPro booth, Formnext

One of the key benefits of attending trade shows is the chance to see products in action, especially with commonplace live demos of tech like 3D printing and scanning. For instance, while the Revopoint booth might showcase full-body scans, the 3DMakerPro booth offers face scans, allowing you to see the results immediately. These demonstrations provide an intriguing look into the capabilities of the scanning technology.


Conclusion

Just like in the world of 3D printing, there’s a surge in new product launches in 3D scanning, with the great news being that these products are increasingly available to consumers. As the DIY market expands, these sophisticated tools get better every year. To keep pace with this progress, we’ll regularly update this guide to feature the latest products we’ve tested or seen at trade shows. Our goal is to stay on top of the latest trends in laser cutting and engraving, catering to the needs of both hobbyists and professionals in this dynamic field.



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