Handheld vs. Industrial 3D Scanner: Which Is Right for You?

Precision is extremely important in modern manufacturing, prototyping, and design. This is why businesses are increasingly relying on a 3D scanner to capture accurate dimensions, validate parts, and improve product quality. But there are so many devices on the market, so should you choose a handheld 3D scanner or an industrial 3D scanner?

At Evo3D, we provide all kinds of 3D scanners and also guide you in selecting the right solution for your specific needs. In this blog, let’s dissect the difference between handheld and industrial 3D scanners.

Understanding 3D Scanners

A 3D scanner captures the geometry of a physical object and then converts it into a digital 3D model. It uses technologies like lasers, structured light, or photogrammetry, and acquires millions of data points to recreate a precise digital version of the original object. These created models can then be used for inspection, reverse engineering, prototyping, or to prepare objects for additive manufacturing using a large-format 3D scanner.

Both handheld and industrial 3D scanners provide highly accurate scans, but they are useful in different areas.

Handheld 3D Scanners

Handheld 3D scanners are portable and lightweight, so they can be taken anywhere and are flexible. They can quickly scan smaller objects, hard-to-reach areas, and take measurements. Handheld scanners are generally faster to set up than industrial ones and have enough precision for activities like rapid prototyping or design validation.

However, handheld 3D scanners generally have limitations of size or complexity when scanning larger-scale parts. External lighting or reflective surfaces can also affect scan quality. Nevertheless, handheld 3D scanners are highly versatile, cost-effective, and a great resource for design startups, studios, or educational environments.

Industrial 3D Scanners

Industrial 3D scanners are specifically designed with high precision in mind and are useful in mass production. They are often integrated with large-format 3D printers or other advanced manufacturing systems. That’s why they are crucial in industries like aerospace, automotive, and healthcare. These scanners can give you sub-millimetre precision and are perfect for large components or even entire assemblies.

Industrial scanners often come at a higher price point and need trained operators, but their reliability and durability are truly worth it. Companies that invest in industrial 3D scanners can get consistent, high-quality results, improved workflows, and overall better integration with the production processes.

Choosing the Right 3D Scanner

When deciding which scanner works for you, think about these parameters:

• Project Size: Handheld scanners work well for small to medium parts, but industrial scanners are good for larger components and assemblies. 
• Accuracy Needs: If you need very precise measurements or have strict guidelines, industrial 3D scanners would be a better option than handheld scanners.
• Budget Constraints: Handheld scanners are easier to fit within budget constraints, while industrial scanners have a higher cost. But ultimately, they have a great return on investment. 
• Workflow Integration: If you already have tools like large-format 3D printers or CAD systems, think about how the scanner will fit into the production process. 

At Evo3D, we help businesses evaluate these factors and choose a solution that maximises efficiency, accuracy, and ROI.

Get High-Quality 3D Scanners at Evo3D

Which 3D scanner you should buy completely depends on your business requirements, the size and complexity of the parts, and your accuracy needs. While handheld scanners are convenient and cost-effective, industrial scanners are unbeatable in terms of precision and scalability.

If you are looking for a high-quality handheld or industrial 3D scanner, Evo3D has you covered. We provide you with an extensive range of scanners, expert advice, and ongoing technical support to ensure that your workflow runs smoothly.

Manufacturers also pair their large-format 3D printers with 3D scanners. This way, they can validate prototypes, optimise designs, and reduce waste before rolling out the full-scale production. This combination is particularly important for any business that wants to improve quality control, reduce prototyping timeframes, and improve overall efficiency.

So, if you are a small company, a design studio, or a large manufacturer, our 3D scanning solutions can help you capture accurate data, streamline production, and improve your results.

Check out Evo3D's range of 3D scanners today, and take your additive manufacturing to the next level!