The Top Low-Cost 3D Scanners on the Market in 2024

3D scanning is often used in the additive manufacturing (AM) sector to design a 3D model more easily than via modeling software. It captures data that is then transformed into a 3D model that can then be 3D printed. 3D scanners use one of two main technologies – laser triangulation and structured light – and solutions offer various levels of resolution, resulting in differing levels of preciseness for fine details. Many affordable solutions are available today (compared to professional scanners which are much more expensive), with many different cheap but still effective solutions allowing users to bring their projects to life. Whether a maker, a teacher or an industry leader, one of these low cost 3D scanners is bound to suit your needs! Easy to handle and transport, we have chosen some of the top 3D scanners that are available for under $8,000 (€7,000), sorted by increasing price.

3D Scanner 2.0 from XYZprinting

Taiwanese manufacturer, XYZprinting, currently offers 5 scanners, though today we will focus on one of their more low cost 3D scanners, the portable and high-resolution 3D Scanner 2.0. With a wider scanning range than its younger sibling the 1.0 A, the scanner can scan objects that are 5 x 5 x 5 ~ 100 x 100 x 200 cm using an Intel® RealSense™ Camera. The scan resolution is also superior to the 1.0A, between 0.2 and 1.5 mm, with an operating range ranging from 25 to 60 cm. The manufacturer also provides XYZScan Handy, a scanning and post-editing software to edit your models after scanning. The product is lightweight, measuring 41 x 157 x 61 mm, with a weight of 238 g. It is available from €199 or $316.