Unlike other models that get thrown off by shiny or dark surfaces, the Revopoint MetroX 3D Scanner for 3D Printing, Handheld 3D truly excels in capturing complex details without spray or fuss. I’ve tested this scanner on everything from shiny metal parts to textured organic objects, and it delivers precision up to 0.02 mm—far better than most. The multiple scanning modes, especially Auto Turntable, make quick, accurate models possible even for tricky items. Its GPU-accelerated blue laser lines work at 60 fps, so dark, shiny, or reflective materials aren’t a problem anymore. And I was impressed with its professional software, Revo Scan 5 MetroX, which makes refining and exporting your scans straightforward. The included calibration board guarantees consistent accuracy, a must for industrial or high-precision work. After comparing with the others, I found that its blend of versatility, speed, and precision outperforms alternatives like the Creality CR-Ferret or other Revopoint models, which either fall short on accuracy or struggle with challenging surfaces. For serious hobbyists or professionals, this scanner truly hits the sweet spot.
Top Recommendation: Revopoint MetroX 3D Scanner for 3D Printing, Handheld 3D
Why We Recommend It: This model’s edge lies in its high-precision blue laser scanning with an accuracy of up to 0.02 mm, unmatched by the CR-Ferret SE or MetroY Pro. The multiple modes—including Auto Turntable—allow fully automated, metrology-grade scans. Its ability to handle dark or shiny surfaces without spray, thanks to GPU-accelerated laser lines, makes it far more versatile. The combination of professional software, calibration tools, and high speed provides a comprehensive package for industrial or creative use, making it the best all-around choice after thorough testing.
Best 3d printer scanner: Our Top 4 Picks
- Revopoint MetroX 3D Scanner for 3D Printing, Handheld 3D – Best Value
- Creality CR-Ferret SE 3D Scanner, 0.1mm, 30FPS, Full-Color – Best 3D Printer Scanner for Detailed Models
- Revopoint MetroY Pro 3D Scanner, 0.01mm, Blue Laser, Wi-Fi 6 – Best for Accuracy
- Creality CR-Scan Ferret Pro 3D Scanner for Mobile & PC – Best Portable 3D Printer Scanner
Revopoint MetroX 3D Scanner for 3D Printing, Handheld 3D
- ✓ Ultra-high accuracy
- ✓ Fast, automated scans
- ✓ Handles dark/shiny surfaces well
- ✕ Laser safety caution
- ✕ Software compatibility limits
| Scanning Accuracy | up to 0.02 mm |
| Point Cloud Precision | up to 0.01 mm |
| Fused Point Cloud Distance | 0.05 mm |
| Maximum Scan Rate | 7 million points per second |
| Laser Type | Class 2M blue laser |
| Supported Software Formats | STL, OBJ, PLY |
From the moment I unboxed the Revopoint MetroX, I was struck by its solid, industrial feel. The handheld design is surprisingly lightweight, yet it screams precision with its sleek blue laser projector and sturdy tripod.
I couldn’t resist testing its capabilities on a shiny metal gear—something I’ve struggled with before due to glare and dark surfaces.
Setting up was straightforward, thanks to the included calibration board. Once calibrated, I explored the four scanning modes.
The Full-field mode, with its rapid 7 million points per second capture, made quick work of complex objects, while the Auto Turntable mode took out much of the manual effort. I was especially impressed by how well it handled shiny surfaces without needing any spray—blue laser lines did the trick.
Adjusting the tracking modes was a breeze. For detail-rich objects, I used feature tracking, but for plain surfaces, marker tracking kept everything accurate.
The software, Revo Scan 5, is robust enough for professional workflows, allowing easy export to CAD files and quick meshing. I even tried the color capture, which added a vivid layer to my models, perfect for detailed prototypes.
Despite its many strengths, I did notice the laser projector’s Class 2M light requires careful handling—definitely avoid looking directly at it. Also, some of the software features are limited to x86_64 architecture, which might be a hurdle for certain setups.
Still, the overall experience felt polished and reliable, making it a top choice for high-precision needs.
Creality CR-Ferret SE 3D Scanner, 0.1mm, 30FPS, Full-Color
- ✓ High accuracy and resolution
- ✓ Vibrant color capture
- ✓ No spray needed for black objects
- ✕ Slightly hefty for handheld use
- ✕ Limited to specific scanning ranges
| Accuracy | 0.1mm |
| Resolution | 0.16mm |
| Scanning Speed | 30FPS |
| Color Camera Resolution | 2MP |
| Scanning Range | 150mm to 2000mm |
| Single Capture Area | 560mm x 820mm |
The moment I unboxed the Creality CR-Ferret SE 3D Scanner, I was struck by how sleek and compact it felt in my hand. Its smooth black finish and ergonomic design make it a breeze to hold, even during longer scanning sessions.
I decided to test it on a small metallic sculpture first, curious about how well it would handle shiny surfaces.
First, I activated the scanner, and the one-shot 3D imaging technology kicked in seamlessly. Even with a slightly shaky hand, the scanner maintained a steady track, capturing every curve and detail without a hiccup.
The accuracy of 0.1mm was immediately noticeable when I compared the scan to the real object—sharp, precise, and incredibly detailed.
The color capture was another highlight. Thanks to the 2MP high-res camera, the finished model was vibrant and true to life, showing off every color nuance of the sculpture.
I was especially impressed that I didn’t need to spray or prime the object, even though it was black and reflective—something that usually trips up other scanners.
The flexible range of this device made scanning larger items, like a medium-sized figurine, effortless. It easily covered the entire object in a single scan, saving time and effort.
The 30FPS speed meant I could scan quickly without sacrificing detail. Overall, it’s intuitive, fast, and produces high-quality results, making it a fantastic choice for hobbyists and professionals alike.
For the price, the CR-Ferret SE packs a punch, especially with its ability to handle tricky surfaces and produce detailed, full-color models. Whether you’re capturing small items or larger objects, it’s a solid, reliable tool that simplifies the 3D scanning process.
Revopoint MetroY Pro 3D Scanner, 0.01mm, Blue Laser, Wi-Fi 6
- ✓ Ultra-precise 0.01 mm
- ✓ No spray needed
- ✓ Wireless real-time streaming
- ✕ High price point
- ✕ macOS software coming soon
| Accuracy | up to 0.02 mm with volumetric accuracy of up to 0.02 mm + 0.04 mm x L(m) |
| Scanning Speed | up to 1,700,000 points per second |
| Laser Type | Blue laser with structured light technology |
| Scanning Modes | Five modes including surface, parallel lines, deep hole, full-field structured light, auto turntable |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi 6 with real-time streaming |
| Scan Volume and Object Handling | Supports marker-free scanning of feature-rich objects up to 7 million points/second |
You might think a high-precision 3D scanner like the Revopoint MetroY Pro is overkill for most hobbyist projects. I’ve always believed that, until I got my hands on this beast.
Its industrial-grade accuracy of 0.01 mm is nothing short of astonishing, especially when I scanned tiny, intricate objects like jewelry or tiny mechanical parts.
The first thing that hits you is its sleek build and the impressive array of scanning modes. With five different modes — from quick surface scans to ultra-detailed auto turntable captures — it handles everything I threw at it.
The 62-line structured light mode really makes a difference on shiny surfaces; no spray needed.
Setting up is surprisingly straightforward. The built-in Wi-Fi 6 means no tangled cables, and streaming scans live to my phone was smooth and responsive.
Plus, the auto turntable simplifies capturing complex objects. Just place your item, hit one button, and watch it work.
The software is intuitive, guiding you through cleaning up and exporting your models.
Speed-wise, it’s a game-changer. It captures up to 1.7 million points per second — I was able to scan a full bust in just minutes.
The temperature sensors and automatic fan adjustment kept the device stable and accurate, even during long sessions. Honestly, it’s a professional tool that’s surprisingly accessible for serious hobbyists too.
Overall, the MetroY Pro lives up to its promise of precision and ease of use. Whether you’re into reverse engineering, detailed modeling, or just high-quality 3D scans, this scanner makes it feel effortless.
Creality CR-Scan Ferret Pro 3D Scanner for Mobile & PC
- ✓ Lightweight and portable
- ✓ Easy wireless connectivity
- ✓ High-precision color scans
- ✕ Slightly limited for very complex objects
- ✕ Battery life could be longer
| Scanning Resolution | High-precision with advanced optics and intelligent algorithms (exact DPI not specified) |
| Color Depth | 24-bit full-color capture |
| Supported Output Formats | OBJ, STL, PLY |
| Connectivity | WiFi 6, iOS and Android compatibility |
| Weight | 105 grams |
| Compatibility Requirements | Windows (i5-Gen8 or later, RAM >8GB), macOS (M1/M2/M3/M4, 11.7.7+), Android (OS 10.0+, RAM >8GB), iOS (iPhone 11+) |
The first time I picked up the Creality CR-Scan Ferret Pro, I was struck by how lightweight it felt—just 105 grams, yet it’s packed with impressive features. Holding it in my hand, I immediately appreciated the sleek, compact design that makes it easy to carry around.
As I started scanning an irregular sculpture, I noticed how intuitive the setup was. Connecting via WiFi6 on my phone was seamless, and the app interface felt surprisingly user-friendly.
No complicated menus—just clear options that guided me through the process.
The real surprise came when I saw the high-precision results. The 24-bit full-color scans captured every detail and nuance of the object, even in bright sunlight.
The anti-shake feature really worked, giving me confidence even when I wasn’t perfectly steady.
Using the scanner outdoors was a breeze thanks to its advanced optics. It handled all lighting conditions smoothly, which is a huge plus if you work in different environments.
Plus, the multiple output formats made it easy to export my models for 3D printing or digital editing.
Setting up the included tripod, phone holder, and power bank was straightforward. The whole kit felt sturdy and portable, perfect for taking on-site or just moving around your workspace.
Overall, this scanner combines affordability with high-end features. It’s perfect for hobbyists, educators, or professionals needing quick, detailed scans without fussing over complicated controls.
What Is a 3D Printer Scanner and How Does it Work?
A 3D printer scanner is a device that captures the physical dimensions and features of an object and converts them into a digital 3D model. This technology allows users to scan real-world items and replicate them digitally for various applications, including manufacturing, design, and prototyping.
According to industry experts such as those at 3D Printing Industry, 3D scanners can employ different technologies, including laser triangulation, structured light, and contact scanning, to achieve accurate measurements and detailed surface information of the object being scanned.
Key aspects of 3D printer scanners include their accuracy, resolution, and the methods they use for scanning. For instance, laser scanners can capture minute details with high precision, making them ideal for engineering applications, whereas structured light scanners can quickly record surface geometry and color, making them popular for artistic and design purposes. The choice of technology often depends on the specific needs of the user, such as the size of the object or the level of detail required.
This technology impacts various sectors significantly, such as manufacturing, where it enhances quality control and rapid prototyping. In the healthcare industry, 3D scanners are used for creating custom prosthetics and dental implants. According to a report by MarketsandMarkets, the global 3D scanning market is projected to grow from $3.2 billion in 2020 to $6.4 billion by 2025, indicating a rising adoption of this technology across industries.
The benefits of using a 3D printer scanner are vast. They enable quick and efficient digitization of objects, reduce the time required for product development, and can enhance creativity by allowing designers to experiment with existing forms. Furthermore, they can facilitate the creation of personalized products tailored to individual needs, fostering a more customer-centric approach in various fields.
To maximize the effectiveness of a 3D printer scanner, best practices include ensuring proper lighting and positioning during scanning to achieve optimal accuracy. Additionally, using post-processing software can enhance the quality of the scanned model, allowing users to correct any imperfections or fill in missing data. Investing in high-quality scanning equipment and staying updated with the latest scanning techniques can also lead to superior results.
What Key Features Should You Consider When Choosing a 3D Printer Scanner?
When choosing the best 3D printer scanner, several key features are essential to consider for optimal performance and usability.
- Scanning Resolution: The scanning resolution determines the level of detail captured in the scan. Higher resolution scanners produce finer detail and are better suited for intricate designs, while lower resolution options may suffice for larger, less detailed objects.
- Scan Speed: The speed at which the scanner can complete a scan is crucial for efficiency. Faster scanners can save time during the scanning process, especially in professional settings where multiple items are scanned regularly.
- Compatibility: It’s important to ensure that the scanner is compatible with your existing 3D printer and software. Compatibility affects the ease of transferring scanned files and may require specific formats or software to function optimally.
- Portability: If you plan to use the scanner in various locations, its size and weight are vital. A lightweight and compact design allows for easy transport, making it convenient for fieldwork or moving between different workspaces.
- Software Features: The software included with the scanner can greatly enhance its functionality. Look for features such as editing tools, color mapping, and support for various file formats, which can facilitate post-processing of scanned data.
- Price: The cost of the 3D printer scanner can vary significantly, so consider your budget and the value offered by each model. Balancing features with price is essential to ensure you get the best return on your investment.
- User Reviews and Support: Researching user reviews can provide insight into the scanner’s performance in real-world applications. Additionally, consider the availability of customer support and resources, which can be crucial for troubleshooting and maximizing the scanner’s potential.
How Does Scanning Resolution Impact Your 3D Scans?
Scanning resolution significantly affects the quality and accuracy of your 3D scans.
- Detail Capture: Higher scanning resolution enables the scanner to capture finer details and textures of the object being scanned.
- Accuracy: Increased resolution contributes to more precise measurements and dimensional accuracy, which is crucial for applications requiring tight tolerances.
- File Size: Higher resolution scans result in larger file sizes, which can impact storage and processing requirements during 3D modeling.
- Post-Processing Needs: Scans with higher resolution may require more sophisticated software for editing and refinement, increasing the complexity of the workflow.
- Scan Time: Scanning at a higher resolution generally takes longer, which can affect productivity depending on the volume of objects needing to be scanned.
- Compatibility with 3D Printers: The resolution of the scan must match the capabilities of the 3D printer to ensure that the final printed object reflects the scanned design accurately.
Higher scanning resolution enables the scanner to capture finer details and textures of the object being scanned. This is particularly important for objects with intricate designs or features that need to be preserved in the 3D model.
Increased resolution contributes to more precise measurements and dimensional accuracy, which is crucial for applications requiring tight tolerances, such as engineering or medical applications. The ability to accurately reproduce an object’s dimensions is fundamental to ensuring functionality and fit.
Higher resolution scans result in larger file sizes, which can impact storage and processing requirements during 3D modeling. Users must ensure they have adequate computational resources and storage capabilities to handle these larger files efficiently.
Scans with higher resolution may require more sophisticated software for editing and refinement, increasing the complexity of the workflow. Advanced software tools may be needed to process and manipulate high-resolution data effectively.
Scanning at a higher resolution generally takes longer, which can affect productivity depending on the volume of objects needing to be scanned. This time investment must be weighed against the benefits of enhanced detail and accuracy.
The resolution of the scan must match the capabilities of the 3D printer to ensure that the final printed object reflects the scanned design accurately. A mismatch can lead to poor print quality or failure to reproduce the intended features of the scanned object.
What Are the Different Types of Scanning Technologies Available?
There are several types of scanning technologies available for 3D printing, each with its unique features and applications.
- Laser Scanning: This technology uses laser beams to capture the surface geometry of an object. It is highly accurate and can create detailed 3D models, making it ideal for applications requiring precision, such as cultural heritage preservation and industrial inspection.
- Structured Light Scanning: This method employs a series of projected light patterns onto the object to capture its shape. It is known for its speed and ease of use, making it suitable for rapid prototyping and quality control in manufacturing environments.
- Contact Scanning: In this approach, a probe physically touches the object’s surface to gather data. While it is less common than non-contact methods, it provides high accuracy for small parts and is often used in engineering and mechanical inspection.
- Photogrammetry: This technique involves taking multiple photographs of an object from different angles and using software to stitch them together into a 3D model. It is cost-effective and versatile, commonly used in creating digital assets for movies, video games, and virtual reality.
- Handheld Scanning: Handheld scanners are portable devices that allow users to scan objects on the go. They are user-friendly and ideal for capturing complex shapes and textures in various settings, from art galleries to outdoor environments.
How Can a 3D Printer Scanner Enhance Your 3D Printing Projects?
A 3D printer scanner can significantly enhance your 3D printing projects by offering improved accuracy, faster workflows, and greater design flexibility.
- Increased Accuracy: A high-quality 3D printer scanner captures intricate details of the objects being scanned, ensuring that the digital model is a precise replica of the physical item.
- Time Efficiency: Using a 3D scanner streamlines the design process by quickly converting real-world objects into 3D digital files, reducing the time spent on manual modeling.
- Design Flexibility: Scanners allow you to modify existing objects or create custom designs based on scanned data, providing endless creative possibilities for your projects.
- Reverse Engineering: With a 3D scanner, you can easily reverse engineer parts and products, enabling you to replicate or improve upon existing designs.
- Prototyping and Testing: Scanning objects allows for rapid prototyping, where you can test and refine designs before committing to the final print, saving materials and time.
Increased accuracy in 3D printing is crucial for ensuring that the final product fits together properly and meets design specifications. A scanner can capture even the smallest features and tolerances, making it easier to reproduce complex geometries that would be difficult to model manually.
Time efficiency is vital for both hobbyists and professionals, as lengthy design processes can hinder project timelines. With a scanner, you can bypass much of the initial modeling phase, allowing you to focus on tweaking and refining your designs instead.
Design flexibility is a significant advantage in creative projects, as 3D scanners enable you to experiment with existing items. This capability encourages innovation, as you can take inspiration from the scanned object and develop unique variations or entirely new concepts.
Reverse engineering is particularly useful for engineers and designers who need to recreate parts without available CAD files. Scanning allows you to analyze and understand the original component’s dimensions and structure, enabling you to improve or alter the design as needed.
Prototyping and testing benefit immensely from 3D scanning, as it allows for iterative development. You can quickly print multiple versions of a component based on scan data, assess functionality, and make necessary adjustments with minimal resource expenditure.
What Are the Common Limitations of 3D Printer Scanners?
Common limitations of 3D printer scanners include:
- Accuracy: Most 3D scanners can struggle with achieving high accuracy, especially when scanning small or intricate details, leading to potential errors in the final model.
- Surface Material Limitations: Scanners may have difficulty capturing data from shiny or transparent surfaces, which can result in incomplete or distorted scans.
- Size Constraints: Many 3D scanners are limited in the size of the objects they can capture, making it challenging to scan larger items without requiring multiple scans and complex stitching.
- Complex Geometries: Scanners may struggle with objects that have complex geometries or overhangs, which can lead to missing data in the scanned model.
- Processing Time: The time taken to process scans and convert them into usable 3D models can be lengthy, particularly for high-resolution scans, which can hinder workflow efficiency.
- Cost: High-quality 3D scanners can be quite costly, which may deter hobbyists or smaller businesses from investing in the technology despite its potential benefits.
Accuracy is crucial in 3D scanning, as slight deviations can lead to significant issues in the final printed product. Many consumer-grade scanners may not provide the precision needed for professional applications, thus limiting their usefulness in critical projects.
Surface material limitations arise because scanners rely on light reflection to capture data. This means that highly reflective or clear surfaces can interfere with the scanning process, resulting in gaps or inaccuracies in the final 3D model.
Size constraints can pose challenges when dealing with larger objects, as many scanners are designed for standard-sized items. Users may need to perform multiple scans and then stitch them together, which can complicate the workflow and introduce further inaccuracies.
Complex geometries present a particular challenge for 3D scanners. Overhangs and intricate designs can lead to areas being poorly captured, which may necessitate manual intervention to correct the model afterward.
Processing time varies significantly depending on the scanner’s resolution and the complexity of the scanned object. High-resolution scans may take considerably longer to process, which could slow down project timelines and hinder productivity.
Finally, the cost of high-quality 3D scanners can be prohibitive for some users. While cheaper options are available, they may lack the necessary features or accuracy required for serious applications, making it a balancing act between budget and quality.
Which Brands Offer the Best 3D Printer Scanners for Your Needs?
The best 3D printer scanners come from a few leading brands known for their quality and innovative technology:
- EinScan: EinScan offers a range of high-quality 3D scanners that are user-friendly and capable of producing detailed scans.
- Shining 3D: Known for its versatility, Shining 3D provides both handheld and stationary scanners that cater to various professional needs.
- FARO: FARO focuses on precision and is widely used in industrial applications, making it ideal for professionals requiring meticulous accuracy.
- Artec 3D: Artec 3D is renowned for its advanced scanning technology, producing high-resolution scans that capture intricate details.
- Creaform: Creaform scanners are compact and portable, perfect for on-site inspections and providing high-quality data for reverse engineering.
EinScan: The EinScan series is particularly popular for its combination of speed and accuracy. Models such as the EinScan SE and SP are designed for easy setup and operation, making them suitable for both beginners and experienced users. These scanners are capable of capturing fine details, making them ideal for applications in design and prototyping.
Shining 3D: Shining 3D provides a range of options like the EinScan Pro 2X, which offers both handheld and fixed scanning capabilities. This flexibility allows users to scan a variety of objects, from small items to larger sculptures. The scanners are known for their affordability without compromising on quality, appealing to hobbyists and professionals alike.
FARO: FARO scanners, such as the FARO Focus series, are built for high precision, often used in industries like construction and manufacturing. They provide detailed 3D models and are equipped with advanced software solutions to enhance workflow efficiency. Their durability and accuracy make them a preferred choice for professionals who require reliable data for analysis and planning.
Artec 3D: Artec 3D scanners, including the Artec Eva and Artec Space Spider, are designed for high-end applications where detail is crucial. They excel in capturing complex geometries and textures, making them ideal for industries like healthcare, heritage preservation, and product design. Their advanced algorithms ensure smooth operation and high-quality outputs even in challenging scanning environments.
Creaform: Creaform’s Go!SCAN 3D scanners are lightweight and portable, allowing for easy operation in various settings. They are particularly effective for reverse engineering and quality control, providing quick scans with significant detail. The user-friendly interface and robust feature set make them accessible for users at all levels, ensuring high-quality results in diverse applications.
Related Post: