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10 Best 3D Scanners For 3D Printers 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Creality RaptorX 3D Scanner, Wireless Hybrid Blue Laser & NIR Scanner for 3D Printing, Industrial Scanner with 0.02mm+0.06mm/m Volume Accuracy, Fast Data Transmission and Processing from WiFi 6 AX6000

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,470
Accuracy
Scanning Speed
Portability

Most important from
29 reviews

Accuracy
The scanner boasts impressive precision and detailed scanning capabilities, making it ideal for various demanding tasks.
Scanning Speed
Scans are completed quickly due to the scanner's high-speed capabilities, enhancing productivity.
Portability
The portability provided by the wireless scanning handle and the ability to use a phone as a screen is a significant advantage for flexibility in scanning environments.

The Creality RaptorX 3D Scanner is a top-tier choice for detailed and precise 3D scanning. Its industrial-grade accuracy, with a maximum precision of 0.02mm, makes it perfect for demanding tasks like automotive work and reverse engineering. This scanner excels with its versatile light sources, including blue, white, and infrared, which help scan different materials and complex shapes effectively.

It’s a highly portable device, thanks to its wireless scanning handle, which even allows you to use your phone as the screen, making it extremely convenient to move around the object you're scanning. This portability is a significant advantage for users who need flexibility in their scanning environments. The scanner's speed is impressive, handling over a million measurements per second for cross-laser scanning and even more for NIR structured light scanning. This means it can complete scans quickly, boosting productivity.

Another notable strength is its broad application range, from scanning human bodies and faces to cultural relics and industrial parts, making it versatile for various fields. However, the scanner's weight (13.6 pounds) and the need for a lithium-ion battery, though included, might be slight drawbacks for some users who prioritize ultra-lightweight devices or prefer battery-free operation. Additionally, its dimension might require a bit of extra space for storage and handling. The RaptorX stands out as a powerful and efficient tool for anyone needing high-quality 3D scans across different applications.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,470
Accuracy
Scanning Speed
Portability

Most important from
29 reviews

Accuracy
The scanner boasts impressive precision and detailed scanning capabilities, making it ideal for various demanding tasks.
Scanning Speed
Scans are completed quickly due to the scanner's high-speed capabilities, enhancing productivity.
Portability
The portability provided by the wireless scanning handle and the ability to use a phone as a screen is a significant advantage for flexibility in scanning environments.
#2

Crealty 3D Scanner CR-Scan Raptor for 3D Printing Support Scanning Hair and Body, Up to 60FPS Scanning Speed and 0.02mm Accuracy Industrial Blue Light,High Quality Scanning for Windows Mac

Rating
9.8
Scanning Speed
Portability

Most important from
33 reviews

Scanning Speed
A powerful computer is recommended to speed up the processing, enhancing the overall experience.
Portability
The scanner's app could be improved to capture data without needing a powerful laptop or computer connected, allowing for more convenient use.

The Crealty 3D Scanner CR-Scan Raptor offers impressive features for those interested in high-quality 3D scanning. It boasts a maximum accuracy of 0.02mm, which is quite precise, making it excellent for detailed scans. The scanning speed is also notable, reaching up to 60 frames per second, which means you can capture models quickly. It's capable of scanning various object sizes, from tiny figurines to large components, thanks to its combination of blue and infrared structured light. This makes it versatile for different scanning needs, whether for small intricate parts or full-body scans.

The scanner includes a unique face mapping algorithm and safety features that make it safe to scan faces and bodies, which is a plus for those needing to scan humans or detailed facial features. The anti-shake tracking and 24-bit full-color scanning enhance the quality and ease of use, providing stable and vibrant scans even in darker environments. At 6.2 pounds, it may not be the most portable option if you need something lightweight for frequent travel.

The CR-Scan Raptor is a powerful and versatile tool suitable for high-precision scanning, but its weight and software compatibility might be considerations depending on your specific needs.

Rating
9.8
Scanning Speed
Portability

Most important from
33 reviews

Scanning Speed
A powerful computer is recommended to speed up the processing, enhancing the overall experience.
Portability
The scanner's app could be improved to capture data without needing a powerful laptop or computer connected, allowing for more convenient use.
#3

Creality 3D Scanner CR-Scan Raptor Pro for 3D Printing, 22+7 Blue Laser & NIR Handheld Scanner 0.02mm Accuracy, 60fps High-Speed & 5MM to 4M Objects, 24-Bit Full-Color Scanning for Windows macOS

Rating
9.6
Accuracy
Software Compatibility

Most important from
8 reviews

Accuracy
The precision of the scans is first-class, making it possible to create accessories with a 3D printer accurately.
Software Compatibility
The software fulfills its purpose but could use some refinement; translations can be awkward and sometimes unintentionally funny.

The Creality 3D Scanner CR-Scan Raptor Pro is a high-precision 3D scanner designed to meet industrial standards. Its standout feature is its metrology-grade precision with an impressive 0.02mm resolution, which is a significant strength for tasks requiring detailed accuracy. It offers a versatile scanning range, capable of handling objects from tiny 5mm miniatures to large 4m components, making it adaptable for various projects.

The multi-mode scanning system, employing 22 blue laser lines and 7 near-infrared structured light modes, enhances its efficiency and precision, especially for medium to large-scale objects. Its high-speed capture capability at 60 frames per second ensures rapid data acquisition, which is beneficial for users who need quick results. Another notable advantage is its ability to handle challenging materials like automotive glass and reflective metallic surfaces, thanks to advanced laser line technology and proprietary algorithms. Additionally, it performs well under bright outdoor conditions, maintaining scanning integrity.

Portability is supported through wireless operation with the ergonomic control handle CR-Scan Bridge, although it weighs 8.85 pounds, which may be somewhat heavy for prolonged handheld use. Software compatibility includes Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS, but users must ensure their devices meet the performance requirements, particularly for Windows and macOS systems that demand higher-end specifications. This scanner is suitable for professionals in industries requiring high precision and versatility, but its complexity and specific hardware requirements may not be ideal for casual users or those with basic computing setups.

Rating
9.6
Accuracy
Software Compatibility

Most important from
8 reviews

Accuracy
The precision of the scans is first-class, making it possible to create accessories with a 3D printer accurately.
Software Compatibility
The software fulfills its purpose but could use some refinement; translations can be awkward and sometimes unintentionally funny.

Buying Guide for the Best 3D Scanners For 3D Printers

Choosing the right 3D scanner for your 3D printer can significantly impact the quality and accuracy of your 3D prints. A 3D scanner captures the physical dimensions of an object and converts it into a digital 3D model, which can then be printed using a 3D printer. To make an informed decision, you need to consider several key specifications that will determine how well the scanner meets your needs. Understanding these specifications will help you select a scanner that aligns with your intended use, whether it's for professional, educational, or hobbyist purposes.
ResolutionResolution refers to the level of detail that the 3D scanner can capture. It is usually measured in millimeters (mm) or microns (µm). Higher resolution means the scanner can capture finer details, which is crucial for applications requiring high precision, such as creating detailed models for engineering or medical purposes. For general use or larger objects, a lower resolution may suffice. If you need to capture intricate details, look for a scanner with a resolution of 0.1 mm or better. For less detailed work, a resolution of 0.5 mm or higher might be adequate.
Scan VolumeScan volume is the maximum size of the object that the scanner can capture in a single scan. It is typically measured in cubic dimensions (length, width, height). This specification is important because it determines the size of the objects you can scan without needing to stitch multiple scans together. If you plan to scan small objects like jewelry or small parts, a scanner with a smaller scan volume will be sufficient. However, if you need to scan larger objects like furniture or sculptures, you will need a scanner with a larger scan volume.
AccuracyAccuracy indicates how close the scanned model is to the actual dimensions of the object. It is usually measured in millimeters (mm). Higher accuracy is essential for applications where precision is critical, such as in engineering, manufacturing, or quality control. For hobbyist or educational purposes, slightly lower accuracy might be acceptable. If your work requires high precision, look for a scanner with an accuracy of 0.1 mm or better. For less critical applications, an accuracy of 0.5 mm or higher may be sufficient.
Scanning SpeedScanning speed refers to how quickly the scanner can capture the data of an object. It is often measured in points per second or frames per second. Faster scanning speeds can save time, especially when scanning large or complex objects. This is particularly important in professional settings where time efficiency is crucial. For casual or occasional use, scanning speed may be less critical. If you need to scan objects quickly, look for a scanner with a high scanning speed. For less frequent use, a slower scanner may be adequate.
PortabilityPortability refers to how easy it is to move and use the scanner in different locations. Portable scanners are typically lightweight and compact, making them ideal for fieldwork or situations where you need to scan objects in various locations. If you plan to use the scanner in a fixed location, portability may be less important. For users who need to travel with their scanner or use it in different environments, a portable model is a better choice. For stationary use, a larger, less portable scanner might be acceptable.
Software CompatibilitySoftware compatibility refers to the scanner's ability to work with different 3D modeling and printing software. This is important because the scanned data needs to be processed and edited before printing. Ensure that the scanner is compatible with the software you plan to use, whether it's for professional CAD programs or simpler hobbyist applications. Check if the scanner comes with its own software and if it supports file formats that are compatible with your 3D printer. For seamless workflow, choose a scanner that integrates well with your existing software tools.

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