As technology continues to evolve, 3D scanners have become essential tools across industries—from engineering and design to healthcare, education, and gaming. Whether you're reverse-engineering parts, creating digital twins, or enhancing your 3D printing workflow, choosing the best 3D scanner is crucial for accuracy, efficiency, and usability.

In this article, we will explore the best 3D scanners in 2025, covering a range of budgets and use cases. We’ll also help you understand key features, top brands, and buying tips to make an informed decision.

🔍 What Is a 3D Scanner?

A 3D scanner is a device that analyzes a real-world object or environment to collect data on its shape and appearance. The collected data is then used to construct digital 3D models. These models can be used for reverse engineering, 3D printing, virtual reality, gaming, animation, and more.

🏆 Top 10 Best 3D Scanners in 2025

1. Artec Leo – Best Overall Professional 3D Scanner

Price: $$$$
Technology: Structured Light
Accuracy: Up to 0.1 mm
Scanning Speed: 3 million points/sec
Best For: Industrial design, forensics, medical, and art preservation

Why It’s the Best: The Artec Leo is a wireless 3D scanner with a built-in screen and onboard processing. It’s perfect for professionals who need high-speed scanning without tethering to a PC.

Pros:

• Real-time feedback
• High accuracy
• Portable and wireless

Cons:

• Expensive
• Requires a learning curve

2. Shining 3D EinScan H2 – Best Hybrid 3D Scanner

Price: $$$
Technology: Hybrid (LED + Infrared)
Accuracy: Up to 0.05 mm
Best For: Face scanning, medical, cultural heritage

The EinScan H2 uses infrared and structured light, making it ideal for color texture capturing and scanning humans. Its hybrid capability ensures flexibility and reliability.

Pros:

• Great color capture
• Smooth face and body scans
• Plug-and-play

Cons:

• Not ideal for tiny objects

3. Revopoint POP 3 – Best Budget 3D Scanner

Price: $500–$700
Technology: Infrared
Accuracy: Up to 0.05 mm
Best For: Beginners, hobbyists, small parts

The POP 3 is one of the best 3D scanners under $1,000. It’s portable, USB-powered, and compatible with Windows, macOS, and mobile platforms.

Pros:

• Affordable
• High-resolution for the price
• Works on battery or USB

Cons:

• Struggles with reflective surfaces
• Needs good lighting

4. Creality CR-Scan Ferret – Best for Beginners

Price: $300–$500
Technology: Structured Light
Accuracy: 0.1 mm
Best For: Entry-level scanning

This affordable 3D scanner from Creality is simple and effective for those just getting into 3D scanning for 3D printing or personal projects.

Pros:

• Low cost
• Simple operation
• Mobile scanning

Cons:

• Lower scan detail
• Limited software features

5. Artec Eva – Best for Fast Professional Scanning

Price: $$$$
Technology: Structured Light
Accuracy: Up to 0.1 mm
Best For: Rapid prototyping, industrial applications

The Artec Eva is a staple in many industries. Known for its speed and versatility, it works great with medium to large objects.

Pros:

• Fast data capture
• No targets or calibration required
• Lightweight

Cons:

• Not ideal for very small objects
• High price

6. Matter and Form V2 – Best Desktop 3D Scanner

Price: $$
Technology: Laser triangulation
Accuracy: 0.1 mm
Best For: Desktop use, education, and design

If you’re looking for a compact, plug-and-play 3D scanner, the Matter and Form V2 offers reliability and accuracy in a stylish foldable design.

Pros:

• Sleek, compact
• Good value
• Easy to use

Cons:

• Limited scan volume
• Slower than handheld models

7. Scan Dimension SOL PRO – Best for Small Object Precision

Price: $$
Technology: Structured Light
Accuracy: 0.05 mm
Best For: Jewelry, small mechanical parts

Ideal for ultra-precise scans, the SOL PRO offers industrial-level accuracy in a desktop setup. It’s excellent for reverse engineering and precision modeling.

Pros:

• High precision
• Dual-axis rotation
• Excellent texture capture

Cons:

• Limited object size
• Software needs improvement

8. Polyga Compact S1 – Best for Industrial Metrology

Price: $$$$
Technology: Structured Light
Accuracy: Up to 0.035 mm
Best For: Metrology, inspection, QA

Used in industrial applications, Polyga scanners deliver top-tier scanning performance for professionals who need high-accuracy 3D scanning.

Pros:

• Incredible precision
• Professional-grade output
• Durable build

Cons:

• Very expensive
• Complex setup

9. Peel 3D Peel 3.CAD – Best for Reverse Engineering

Price: $$$
Technology: Structured Light
Accuracy: 0.1 mm
Best For: Engineering, mechanical design

Built for engineers, Peel 3.CAD includes mesh editing and CAD tools. It bridges the gap between scanning and CAD modeling seamlessly.

Pros:

• Integrated CAD tools
• Intuitive software
• Great accuracy

Cons:

• Requires powerful PC
• Steep learning curve

10. Phiz 3D Scanner – Best Smartphone-Compatible Scanner

Price: $$
Technology: Photogrammetry
Accuracy: 0.2 mm
Best For: DIYers, students, creators

The Phiz 3D scanner converts your smartphone into a capable scanning device. It’s portable, cost-effective, and perfect for hobbyists.

Pros:

• Uses your phone
• Portable and affordable
• Ideal for simple projects

Cons:

• Lower detail
• Limited professional application

🔑 Key Features to Look for in the Best 3D Scanners

When choosing the best 3D scanner, consider the following factors:

✅ Accuracy

High-precision scanners (0.01–0.1 mm) are essential for professional work such as metrology and engineering.

✅ Resolution

The resolution affects how detailed your 3D scan will be. The finer the resolution, the more precise the mesh.

✅ Scanning Volume

Make sure the scanner can capture the size of your intended objects—from tiny gears to full human bodies.

✅ Speed

Faster scanners are crucial for industrial environments where time efficiency matters.

✅ Portability

For fieldwork or on-site applications, wireless and handheld 3D scanners offer flexibility.

✅ Software Compatibility

Great hardware needs equally good software. Look for easy-to-use, feature-rich software that supports mesh editing and file export formats like STL, OBJ, or PLY.

📈 Applications of 3D Scanners

• Reverse Engineering: Recreate broken or legacy parts.
• Quality Control: Inspect manufactured parts for tolerance.
• 3D Printing: Convert real objects into printable models.
• Healthcare: Orthotics, prosthetics, dental impressions.
• Education: STEM training and digital modeling.
• Gaming & Animation: Create 3D characters and assets.

🛠️ Best 3D Scanner Brands to Trust in 2025

1. Artec 3D – High-end scanners with pro features
2. Shining 3D – Reliable, mid-range options for professionals
3. Revopoint – Best value for money
4. Creality – Budget-friendly and beginner focused
5. Peel 3D – Great for engineers and reverse engineering
6. Matter and Form – Compact and educational models
7. Polyga – Precision scanners for industrial use

💬 Final Thoughts: Which Is the Best 3D Scanner for You?

The best 3D scanners depends on your budget, application, and desired accuracy. For professionals who demand top performance, the Artec Leo or Polyga Compact S1 are excellent choices. Beginners may find the Creality CR-Scan Ferret or Revopoint POP 3 more accessible and affordable.

Regardless of your choice, today’s 3D scanning technology offers remarkable precision and ease of use—making it a smart investment for professionals, hobbyists, educators, and makers alike.

📌 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What is the best 3D scanner for 3D printing?

Revopoint POP 3 and Shining 3D EinScan H2 are great for creating printable 3D models.

Q2: Can 3D scanners scan living humans?

Yes, scanners like the EinScan H2 or Artec Eva are safe and effective for scanning humans, including faces and full bodies.

Q3: Are cheap 3D scanners worth it?

Yes, budget models like the Creality CR-Scan Ferret offer decent quality for beginners and DIY users.

Q4: What file formats do 3D scanners export?

Most scanners export in STL, OBJ, or PLY formats, which are compatible with 3D printers and CAD software.