Choosing a professional 3D scanner in 2020



Hello! Today we are going to tell you which professional 3D scanner is the best to buy in 2020 and the features of the most popular models. In addition, at the end of the article, you can find the key parameters that you need to focus on when choosing equipment. So, let's begin!



RangeVision PRO Base











RangeVision PRO Base will cost you much less than its top version . The only caveat is that the camera resolution of the simplified model will be only 3 megapixels, not 6. However, despite its price, this device has very decent characteristics and can fully cover the needs of 99% of specialists.





Taken from the website: rangevision.com

The model is based on the famous blue light technology, the use of which improves both the accuracy of the scan and its speed. A set of software necessary for operation is supplied with the scanner.





Despite all its advantages, RangeVision PRO Base has two significant disadvantages. Firstly, the model is fixed on a tripod, which is very inconvenient when scanning such large objects as, for example, architectural monuments. Secondly, setting up such a 3D scanner is quite difficult - all lenses must be manually calibrated, and this takes a lot of time even for experienced users.



The advantages of the model:



  • Very high precision;
  • PC with pre-installed software;
  • Blue backlight technology.


Disadvantages of the model:



  • Difficulty in mastering;
  • High price;
  • Mobility problems.


RangeVision PRO









RangeVision PRO is equipped with 6MP cameras, which provide a 3D model accuracy of 0.04mm. The scanner includes a Mini-PC with an Intel Core i7 processor and a 340 Gb SSD. Before starting work, the device must be configured manually - autotuning is completely absent here.





Photo from the site: rangevision.com



The second difference is that the 3D scanner has a special certificate, according to which the device is an officially recognized measuring instrument in Russia.



The advantages of the model:



  • High resolution cameras;
  • Mini-PC included in the package;
  • High accuracy;
  • Blue backlight technology.


Disadvantages of the model:



  • Mobility problems;
  • Quite a problematic setting;
  • High price.


Shining 3D Einscan Pro 2x plus







Shining 3D Einscan Pro 2x plus is a professional 3D scanner that costs much less than similar flagship models. The device is excellent for scanning a wide variety of objects and has rich functionality.



Einscan Pro 2x plus belongs to the category of handheld 3D scanners. The model weighs only 1 kg, so it can be easily moved from place to place. This mobility allows you to quickly receive scans from large objects - cars, buildings, etc.





Scanner speed is quite impressive - up to 30 frames per second. You can get a digital model of a small object in a matter of minutes, especially since even an inexperienced user can understand the operation of the device. If desired, a color module and a convenient turntable can be purchased additionally to the 3D scanner .



The automatic table can only be used for the purpose of obtaining digital copies from small objects. The user just has to start scanning, and the 3D scanner will do the rest by itself.



The advantages of the model:



  • Ergonomics;
  • High speed of work;
  • Intuitive calibration;
  • Affordable price.


Disadvantages of the model:



  • Operation in black and white - scanning in color is available only with the plug-in, which is sold separately.


Thor Calibry











Thor Calibry is a lightweight and easy-to-use handheld scanner for professionals. The model is relatively inexpensive, easy to set up and allows you to get high-quality color scans. As for the additional options, only a turntable is provided here .





One of the most striking features of the scanner is the presence of a 4-inch display with touch control. It is very convenient for working with large objects, since the user does not need to constantly turn to the PC to compare the data.



Overheating of the scanner may affect the recognition quality. If you do not want to face this problem, then regularly turn off the device so that it can cool down.



The advantages of the model:



  • Ergonomics;
  • Built-in display
  • Simple calibration;
  • Acceptable price.


Disadvantages of the model:



  • Not intended for continuous operation.


Thor Drake







Thor Drake handheld scanner looks quite original against the background of its competitors . The model is quite massive, so it is not very convenient to work with it. However, this disadvantage of the device does not affect the functionality and quality of the scans. Thor Drake can scan just about anything from a coin to a yacht. Complete with a 3D scanner, the user will find three optical modules for working with objects up to 20 cm , 1 m and 8 m in size .



Please note - for the basic price, you can purchase a scanner with only one module. A complete set will cost about one and a half times more.



Thor Drake is equipped with a 7 ″ touch screen, so it is very convenient to operate. A Wi-Fi module is provided for data transfer to a PC. The built-in battery is responsible for the autonomous operation of the device.



Continuous operation time from one charge is approximately 75 minutes.



The advantages of the model:



  • Built-in PC with touchscreen display;
  • Lack of binding to the wire;
  • The ability to scan objects up to 10 m in size;
  • Availability of additional lenses in an extended configuration;
  • Easy calibration.


Disadvantages of the model:



  • Large weight;
  • Slow scanning;
  • Short working time;
  • High price.


Let's sum up



Professional 3D scanners do not have any specific universal standards. On the contrary, each manufacturing company tries to release an original device, unlike the models of other companies.



When choosing a 3D scanner, you need to focus on several key parameters.





  • Price: one of the main parameters. Choose the model that you like, but remember that more expensive does not mean better.
  • Accuracy and speed of scanning. We recommend that you initially look closely at top-end devices - this approach will allow you to be sure of the high quality of future scans and the absence of problems with wasting time.
  • Form factor: static or manual. Focus on the scope of the device - a hand-held scanner can be easily moved, but with a static one it is quite problematic to do it.


Of course, there are some other parameters (autonomy, additional software, etc.), but it is better to consider them at the last stage, when the choice of devices is reduced to 3-4 models.



Buy a professional 3D scanner from Top 3D Shop and become a quality original equipment owner. All products are provided with an official manufacturer's warranty.



If necessary, the client is provided with the help of experienced consultants. An employee of the company will carefully listen to you and help you choose the 3D scanner that will best meet your requirements and requests. Good luck with your choice!



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