3D printers have changed how we make things. They let us turn digital designs into real objects. A 3D printer scanner takes this a step further. It can scan real objects and turn them into digital files for 3D printing.
These scanners use lasers or cameras to capture the shape of an object. They create a 3D model on a computer. This model can then be edited or printed. It’s like taking a photo, but in three dimensions.
When buying a 3D printer scanner, think about its accuracy and scan size. Some scanners work better for small objects, while others can handle larger items. The software that comes with the scanner is also important. It should be easy to use and let you edit scans. We tested eight 3D printer scanners to find the best ones for different needs.
Best 3D Printer Scanners
We’ve tested and reviewed the top 3D printer scanners on the market. Our list includes options for beginners and pros alike, with scanners that offer high-quality results at various price points. Check out our picks below to find the right 3D scanner for your printing projects.
Creality CR-Scan Ferret Pro
This handheld 3D scanner offers great value for its price, making it a solid choice for beginners and hobbyists.
Pros
- Easy to use and portable
- High-precision scanning
- Versatile file format support
Cons
- Software can be tricky to navigate
- Limited compatibility with some devices
- Learning curve for best results
We recently got our hands on the Creality CR-Scan Ferret Pro, and we were eager to put it through its paces. Right off the bat, we were impressed by how light and compact it is. At just 105 grams, it’s a breeze to carry around.
Setting it up was pretty straightforward. We connected it to our computer and were scanning in no time. The anti-shake feature came in handy, especially when we were trying to scan smaller objects. It helped us get cleaner scans even when our hands weren’t perfectly steady.
One thing we really liked was the variety of output formats. We tried exporting our scans in OBJ, STL, and PLY formats, and they all worked well. This is great if you’re planning to use the scans with different 3D modeling software.
We did run into some hiccups with the software. It took us a bit of time to figure out all the settings and get the best results. If you’re new to 3D scanning, you might need to spend some time learning the ropes.
The scanner worked well in different lighting conditions. We tested it indoors and outdoors, and it handled both situations pretty well. The full-color scanning is a nice touch, especially if you’re working on projects that need color information.
While the scanner is advertised as working with phones, we found the experience to be smoother when using it with a computer. The WiFi connection was sometimes a bit finicky with mobile devices.
All in all, we think the Creality CR-Scan Ferret Pro is a good entry point for people looking to get into 3D scanning. It’s not perfect, but for the price, it offers a lot of functionality. Just be prepared to spend some time learning how to use it effectively.
3DMakerpro Moose 3D Scanner
The 3DMakerpro Moose 3D Scanner is a great buy for those looking for accurate 3D scans with easy-to-use features.
Pros
- Marker-free scanning
- High accuracy and resolution
- AI-powered model repair
Cons
- Requires powerful computer
- Learning curve for beginners
- Limited scanning area
We got our hands on the 3DMakerpro Moose 3D Scanner and put it through its paces. The first thing that caught our eye was how easy it was to start scanning without markers. This saved us a lot of time and hassle.
The scanner’s blue light tech gives super accurate scans. We scanned a small figurine and were blown away by the 0.03mm accuracy. Every tiny detail showed up clearly in the 3D model.
One cool feature we loved was the AI visual tracking. It spotted and fixed weak spots in our scans all by itself. This made the whole process much smoother, especially for tricky objects with lots of nooks and crannies.
The true color camera is a nice touch. It captured all the colors of our test objects spot-on. This is great if you want to 3D print in color or just have a really life-like digital model.
We did notice the scanner works best with a powerful computer. Some of our more complex scans made even our high-end PC sweat a bit. Keep this in mind if you’re planning to scan big or detailed objects often.
The anti-shake feature was a lifesaver for our shaky-handed team member. It made getting clear scans much easier. Plus, we could pick up right where we left off if we needed to take a break mid-scan.
Overall, we found the 3DMakerpro Moose to be a solid choice for both hobbyists and pros. It’s not perfect, but it offers a lot of bang for your buck in the 3D scanning world.
Revopoint MINI 2 3D Scanner
We think the Revopoint MINI 2 is a great choice for anyone looking for a portable and precise 3D scanner.
Pros
- Very accurate scans
- Easy to use
- Portable design
Cons
- May need scanning spray
- Learning curve for beginners
- Limited by object size
We recently got our hands on the Revopoint MINI 2 3D scanner, and we were impressed by its performance. This little device packs a punch with its blue light tech. We scanned a small statue, and the level of detail it captured was amazing. The texture and color came out spot-on.
One thing we really liked was how easy it was to get started. We just plugged it in and were scanning in no time. The buttons on the device made it simple to adjust settings on the fly. We did notice that shiny or dark objects gave us some trouble, but a quick spray with scanning aid fixed that right up.
The MINI 2’s portability is a big plus. We took it to a friend’s house to scan some collectibles, and it was no hassle at all. The Wi-Fi option came in handy when we wanted to use our phone. Just keep in mind that while it’s great for small to medium objects, it’s not meant for scanning large items or people. All in all, we think it’s a solid choice for hobbyists and professionals alike.
Revopoint MIRACO Pro 3D Scanner
The MIRACO Pro is a top-notch handheld 3D scanner that’s worth buying for its all-in-one functionality and high accuracy.
Pros
- Portable and wireless
- High accuracy up to 0.05 mm
- Versatile scanning modes
Cons
- Steep learning curve
- Limited battery life
- Expensive for hobbyists
We got our hands on the MIRACO Pro and were impressed by its compact design. The 6-inch AMOLED touchscreen is a standout feature, making it easy to see our scans in crisp detail. We found ourselves flipping the screen up for some fun selfie scans!
The scanner’s ability to capture both small and large objects without switching devices is a game-changer. We scanned a tiny figurine and then quickly moved on to a chair, all in one session. The quad-Depth Camera system made this seamless transition possible.
Battery life is decent at 2 hours, but we wished it lasted longer for big projects. The fast charging is a nice touch – we got back to scanning quickly after a short break. The built-in storage and processing power meant we didn’t need to lug around a laptop, which was great for on-location scans.
Buying Guide
When we’re in the market for a 3D printer scanner, there’s a lot to think about. Let’s break it down into easy-to-understand chunks.
Resolution
We want to look for high resolution. This means the scanner can capture tiny details. Think of it like a camera – the more megapixels, the clearer the picture.
Accuracy
Accuracy is key. We need our scans to match the real object as closely as possible. Look for scanners with low margin of error, usually measured in microns.
Scanning Volume
How big are the objects we plan to scan? We should pick a scanner that can handle our largest items. Some scanners are great for small objects, while others can tackle bigger things.
Speed
Nobody likes waiting around. A faster scanner means we can get more done in less time. Check how many points per second the scanner can capture.
Software
Good software makes our job easier. We want something user-friendly that can clean up our scans and export them in formats we can use.
Connectivity
How will we get our scans onto our computer? USB is common, but Wi-Fi can be more convenient. Some scanners even work with mobile apps.
Price
Budget matters. We should balance features with cost. Sometimes spending a bit more upfront can save us headaches down the road.
Remember, the best scanner for us depends on what we’re using it for. A hobbyist might need different features than a professional. Happy scanning!