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The additive manufacturing (AM) industry frequently uses 3D scanning to create 3D models more quickly and easily than with modeling software. It gathers data later converted into a 3D model that can be printed using a 3D printer. Two key technologies used in 3D scanners—laser triangulation and structured light—allow for the acquisition of more or less precise details depending on the device selected. There are many inexpensive options available today to help many users bring their projects to life, as opposed to professional scanners, which are much more expensive: whether you are a maker, a teacher, or an industry leader, one of these affordable 3D scanners is bound to suit your needs! We have chosen some that are simple to handle and transport.
3D Scanner 2.0 from XYZprinting
The portable and high-resolution 3D Scanner 2.0 is one of the 5 scanners Taiwanese manufacturer XYZprinting currently sells. However, today’s discussion will concentrate on one of their more affordable models. The scanner can use an Intel® RealSenseTM Camera to scan objects 5 by 5 by 5 inches (100 by 100 by 200 cm) larger than its younger sibling, the 1.0 A. With an operating range of 25 to 60 cm, the scan resolution is also better than the 1.0A at between 0.2 and 1.5 mm. To edit your models after scanning, the manufacturer also offers XYZScan Handy, a scanning and post-editing program. The product weighs 238 g and has 41 x 157 x 61 mm dimensions. It costs as little as €199.
Structure Sensor from Occipital
Thanks to the Structure Sensor solution, your mobile device now has precise 3D vision, making 3D scanning possible. The only piece of hardware you’ll need for this 3D scanner to function is an iPad, and once you’ve downloaded the Skanect Pro app, it will start working immediately.
The new iteration of this device measures 109mm x 18mm x 24mm, is lighter, and weighs about 65 g. Using it with a scanning range of 0.3 to 5 meters is advised. Virtual reality gaming and indoor mapping are some additional features of this gadget! Compared to many other options, the Structure Sensor retails for $527, making it a reasonably priced scanner.
POP 3D Scanner from Revopoint
The Revopoint POP stands out among 3D scanners because it was a part of the Kickstarter campaign with the highest crowdfunding for a 3D scanner, raising more than USD 2.28 million. It was created by Revopoint, a company established in 2014 by a group of young physicians and researchers from MIT, Kent University, and other institutions of higher learning who decided to concentrate on creating simple-to-use and affordable 3D scanners. With their POP 3D scanner, it is safe to say that they were successful.
The Revopoint POP is a full-color, binocular structured light 3D scanner with an accuracy of up to 0.3mm, texture scan, and an 8Fps scanning speed. It uses infrared as its light source. It has many intriguing features, like the fact that it can be powered by a power bank and is portable, making it simple to use outside. It is one of the most cost-effective options on our list and still a reliable, accurate, high-resolution scanner, with a scanner price of only $549 in the USA and about $599 in Europe. It supports four OS platforms: Windows, Android, Mac, and iOS, making it accessible to a wide range of users.
Creality CR-Scan 01
The CR-Scan 01 is an affordable 3D scanner made by Creality, a company well-known for its affordable desktop 3D printers. This lightweight, the portable scanner has a scanning area of 536 x 378 mm and only weighs 1.91 kilos. You can export your scanned objects in stl or obj format with an accuracy of up to 0.1 mm. There are various manual and turntable scanning modes available. Currently, it costs 589 euros.
SOL 3D Scanner from Scan Dimension
This scanner, a hybrid solution, was created by the Danish company Scan Dimension. To 3D scan actual objects, it combines laser triangulation and white light technology. The resolution of the SOL 3D scanner can reach 0.1 mm. You can select between a near and far scanning mode during the automated 3D scanning process.
Additionally, the SOL 3D scanner comes with software to streamline your workflow. You can send your 3D model to your 3D printer in a few easy steps. This solution is designed for makers, hobbyists, teachers, and business owners who may not have much experience using 3D scanners but still desire excellent results at a reasonable price. The retail price for the SOL 3D scanner is $699.
V2 from Matter & Form
A desktop 3D scanning product called the Matter, and Form 3D Scanner V2 is produced by the 2013-founded company Matter & Form. This company aims to create and offer high-quality, reasonably priced 3D scanners. This goal has been accomplished with the V2 3D scanner, which has a starting price of $750 and can produce scans with an accuracy of up to 0.1 mm. Its height is 35.5 cm (13.5 in), its width is 21 cm, and its weight is 1.71 kilograms (3.77 lbs) (8.25 in). The device can fit on small desks thanks to its slim and foldable design. The V2 can scan objects up to 25 cm (9.8 in) in height and 18 cm (7.0 in) in diameter.
RangeVision NEO
The entry-level NEO 3D scanner uses structured Light Scanning (SLS) technology from RangeVision, which has two 2-megapixel cameras. The scanner is suitable for everyone with little experience digitizing objects because it has an automatic scan mode. Using RangeVision software, the SLS-3D scanner can create 3D scans of objects with a precision of 0.05mm that range in size from 30mm to 1200mm. A tripod and turntable are also provided, making scanning simpler for the user. According to the manufacturer, the NEO’s scans are suitable for reverse engineering, 3D modeling, historic preservation, and 3D printing. The RangeVision NEO is one of the few desktop 3D scanners that can be purchased for under €2,190.
Calibry, the affordable 3D scanner, from Thor3D
The Russian company Thor3D created the Caliber portable 3D scanner. It incorporates a touch screen and uses structured light technology so that the user can follow the points it captures in real-time. It can scan objects up to 10 meters in length with an accuracy of 0.1 millimeters. It is simple to scan and export black and glossy surfaces in the stl, obj, ply, or WRML formats. The Caliber can scan up to 3 million points per second, weighs only 900 grams, and is quick and handy. Starting at 4,990 euros, it is for sale.
EINSCAN H from Shining 3D
One of the most advanced models of portable 3D scanners created by the Chinese company Shining3D is the EinScan H. The EinScan H can perform human face scans more comfortably and without emitting strong light because it uses a hybrid structure light technology that combines LED and invisible infrared light. A large field of view and a full-color camera is also included, giving the models an incredibly impressive final quality that is ready for processing in a matter of minutes. Given the price/performance ratio, its high resolution of 0.25 mm and data accuracy down to 0.05 mm makes it a good market option. It also stands out for being lightweight (almost 700g) and has an easy-to-use user interface. The starting cost for this
Eva Lite from Artec 3D
Artec 3D, a Luxembourg-based company, offers the Eva Lite as its least expensive 3D scanning option. This specialized professional scanner is used more frequently in the medical industry because it excels at digitizing intricate geometries like the human body. Although it cannot capture colors and textures like most of the brand’s scanners, it operates on the principle of structured light technology and has an accuracy of 0.5 mm.
Working with the software Artec Studio is this 3D scanner. Artec Studio is a potent tool for a 3D scanning process that is optimized. This software can carry out, put together, and fix 3D scans. It can be purchased right now for $9,800.
Do you know of any other affordable 3D printing scanners that should be on this list?
Let us know in the comments below or on our Facebook page to let us know your ideas, and we would appreciate seeing pictures of your works of art!
