Top 10 3D Scanners and Tools that upgrade your setup and help you craft your ultimate creative expression

The lines that separate the physical world and the digital realm continue to blur every day. Augmented reality is putting digital artifacts like windows and buttons, while platforms like the metaverse are bringing bits of the real, physical world into a virtual space in a seamless way. None of these happen by magic, of course, and someone still has to do the work of creating these striking digital objects. Making them from scratch using 3D modelers is definitely possible but also a lot of work, especially if you’re trying to aim for realism or when you need to 3D print a replacement part for a machine or a car. 3D scanners are the tools of the trade for these tasks, and there are 10 of the best products that will get you on your way to making believable, accurate, and precise 3D models of physical objects for all your creative endeavors.

1. Revopoint MINI 3D Scanner Dual-Axis Turntable Combo

If you find yourself always 3D modeling small objects like jewelry, miniature models, or ancient artifacts, then the Revopoint MINI 3D scanner has got your back. Providing single-frame precision of up to 0.02mm and a resolution of up to 0.05mm, this handheld scanner is perfect for working with small objects where accuracy and detail are critical. With an industrial-grade blue light, it can capture detailed scans of objects as small as 10 x 10 x 10 mm in size, making short work of the tiniest targets.

Click Here to Buy Now: $721 $974 (Total of $253 off with coupon code “YANKO10”). Hurry, deal ends in 48 hours!

Why is it Noteworthy?

The Revopoint MINI blue light 3D scanner makes it trivial to capture small objects and is the perfect tool for jewelry design, miniature models, reverse engineering parts, scientific research, and any other task where high-precision models are needed.

What we like

  • Designed for accurate, precise, and detailed scans of small objects down to 10 x 10 x 10 mm in size
  • Portable design makes it easy to set up shop anywhere
  • Combo includes dual-axis turntable and markers

What we dislike

  • A bit pricey (but the bundle includes many accessories)

2. Revopoint INSPIRE 3D Scanner

Being able to turn real-world objects into 3D models is perhaps every creator’s dream, and with the cost-effective Revopoint INSPIRE, those dreams can now come true without breaking your wallet. Despite its accessible price tag, the lightweight 3D scanner offers nearly the same features are larger and more expensive hardware, such as single-frame precision up to 0.1mm and high-speed scans up to 18fps. It can even connect with Android and iOS for truly portable workflows.

Click Here to Buy Now: $356 $458 (Total of $102 off with coupon code “YANKO10”). Hurry, deal ends in 48 hours!

Why is it Noteworthy?

The Revopoint INSPIRE 3D scanner bundles powerful features into a user-friendly and cost-effective package that will appeal to both hobbyists and pros alike.

What we like

  • Affordable price tag makes 3D scanning accessible to anyone
  • Portable and lightweight design allows creators to take their tools anywhere
  • Basic package includes a mini turntable

What we dislike

3. Revopoint RANGE 3D Scanner Premium Package

Not everything you want to scan will be in a small or even medium size, but that doesn’t mean you need to break the bank for an expensive and complicated studio rig. With the Revopoint RANGE 3D scanner, creating digital models of large objects is no sweat at all. With an infrared light projector that supports a distance of up to 800mm and a single-frame precision of up to 0.1mm, you can easily scan furniture, bodies, and even cars and still be able to hold the scanner in your hand.

Click Here to Buy Now: $889 $1199 (Total of $310 off with coupon code “YANKO10”). Hurry, deal ends in 48 hours!

Why is it Noteworthy?

The Revopoint RANGE 3D Scanner makes it easy to create 3D models from large objects without having to sacrifice portability and ease of use.

What we like

  • Portable handheld design makes it easy to work when and where creativity strikes
  • Can scan objects as large as 360mm x 650mm @ 600mm from a distance of up to 800mm with accuracy, precision, and high detail
  • Premium package includes a large turntable, a power bank, and a remote

What we dislike

  • A bit pricey (but the bundle includes many accessories)

4. Revopoint POP 3 Handheld 3D Scanner Advanced Edition

Say goodbye to bulky setups and get ready to start working anywhere. With the Revopoint POP 3 handheld 3D scanner, getting accurate and precise digital versions of real-world objects won’t be a burdensome chore. It boasts an Auxiliary IR that enhances tracking performance in Maker Mode, while White LEDs make the digital model colors more vibrant. Plus, touch-sensitive buttons on the camera itself remove the need for external devices, making the whole workflow more seamless and convenient.

Click Here to Buy Now: $605 $769 (Total of $164 off with coupon code “YANKO10”). Hurry, deal ends in 48 hours!

Why is it Noteworthy?

The Revopoint POP 3 Handheld 3D Scanner’s portable design and powerful yet easy-to-use features make 3D scanning accessible to everyone.

What we like

  • Portable design makes it easy to start working anytime, anywhere
  • Single-frame precision of up to 0.05mm at up to 18fps for fast and correct 3D models
  • Advanced Edition includes everything you need such as a dual-axis turntable and a power bank

What we dislike

  • A bit pricey (but the bundle includes many accessories)

5. Revopoint Handheld Stabilizer for 3D Scanners

Handheld 3D scanners truly revolutionize the industry, allowing almost anyone to do creative work when inspiration strikes. Not everyone, however, has steady hands, which is where a stabilizer comes in. Designed for Revopoint’s portable 3D scanners, this Handheld Stabilizer lets you work without having to worry about shaky hands, getting accurate, detailed, and clear scans each and every time.

Click Here to Buy Now: $139 (Accessorize and Save: $20 Off with $200+ Cart Total)

Why is it Noteworthy?

Compatible with all Revopoint 3D scanners, this Handheld Stabilizer lets you spend more time scanning and less time worrying about shaky hands.

What we like

  • Built-in rechargeable 4000mAh battery delivers a 6-hour operating time
  • Compatible with all Revopoint 3D scanners

What we dislike

  • Stabilizes on 2 axes only

6. Revopoint Dual-Axis Turntable

Just because you have a handheld 3D scanner doesn’t mean you always have to hold it in your hand to use it. Sometimes, going around the object isn’t the best way to get the best scans, which is actually true even for very small objects. On the flip side, turning the object manually yourself is also a lot of work with a lot of room for error. With the Revopoint Dual-Axis Turntable, you can prop up both the object as well as the 3D scanner for a steadier and more consistent rotation that will let you get all the details you need without having to rely on your shaky hands.

Click Here to Buy Now: $119 (Accessorize and Save: $20 Off with $200+ Cart Total)

Why is it Noteworthy?

The Revopoint Dual-Axis Turntable can rotate at a 30-degree tilt to make sure you can capture all the angles you need for an accurate 3D scan.

What we like

  • Supports 360-degree rotation, clockwise or counterclockwise, and up to 30 degrees tilt
  • Has markers for accurate scanning

What we dislike

  • Can only be controlled via Bluetooth using Revo Scan or Revo Assistant (app for iOS or Android)

7. Revopoint Power Bank Mobile Kit

It’s easy to use handheld 3D scanners anywhere, given their portable and lightweight designs, but they’re still electronic devices that do need power to be used. The Revopoint Power Bank provides the juice you need to do your work, wherever you are. You can even easily swap out batteries so you can get up and running again before your creative ideas fly away.

Click Here to Buy Now: $48 (Accessorize and Save: $20 Off with $200+ Cart Total)

Why is it Noteworthy?

The Revopoint Mobile Kit provides the power you need to minimize your downtime and keep on scanning.

What we like

  • Rechargeable 4,000mAh battery offers enough power for hours of work
  • Designed to work with all Revopoint 3D scanners

What we dislike

8. Revopoint Large Turntable

With a handheld 3D scanner, you might think that you will always need to go around the target to scan it. That’s not always easy, however, and sometimes even error-prone. With the Revopoint Large Turntable, you create more efficient workflows by having the object turn around instead. And with a maximum load of 200kg, you can put almost anything that can fit on the turntable, including a human person!

Click Here to Buy Now: $469 $489 ($20 off with $200+ Accessory Cart Total).

Why is it Noteworthy?

The Revopoint Large Turntable enables more efficient and time-effective workflows by having the object steadily turn around rather than having you move around it.

What we like

  • Can support loads of up to 200kg

What we dislike

9. Revopoint Markers for 3D Scanning

While handheld 3D scanners have definitely made it so much easier to scan almost any object, not all objects in the physical world are actually that easy to scan. Objects with completely smooth and featureless surfaces, such as cups or cars, can be more difficult to scan. The Revopoint Markers for 3D scanning easily solves this problem by adding visual points for the scanner to track more easily. With a specially designed adhesive foil, applying and removing these markers are as easy as pie and won’t cause damage to the object.

Click Here to Buy Now: $19.90 for a pack of 500 pcs (Accessorize and Save: $20 Off with $200+ Cart Total)

Why is it Noteworthy?

The Revopoint Markers for 3D scanning instantly turn stubborn, featureless surfaces into scanner-friendly textures for more accurate models.

What we like

  • Easy to apply and remove without damaging the object
  • Single pack includes 500 markers

What we dislike

10. Scanning Spray

Scanning physical objects might sound easy, but not all real-world things lend themselves well to this process. Objects with reflective or transparent surfaces are especially tricky because of how they can interfere with the scanner’s optics. The Scanning Spray deftly transforms the glossiest surface into a textured easy-to-scan surface. Best of all, it doesn’t leave permanent marks and doesn’t do any damage to the object.

Click Here to Buy Now: $39 (Accessorize and Save: $20 Off with $200+ Cart Total)

Why is it Noteworthy?

The Revopoint Scanning Spray easily solves surface texture problems without damaging the scanned object.

What we like

  • Great for metal, glass, and anything with reflective, transparent, or highly textured surfaces
  • Does not cause damage to the object and vanishes within 4 hours

What we dislike

One-handed exoskeleton CNC machine lends super humanized powers to creative builders of the future

In a world where innovation knows no bounds, Jasper Mallinson has created a groundbreaking prototype that pushes the boundaries of product design and wearable technology. His brainchild, the Mecha-Morphis Wearable CNC Machine, is nothing short of a modern marvel that promises to revolutionize the design manufacturing industries.

Mecha-Morphis is not your typical wearable exoskeleton. It’s a powerful, portable CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machine that can be worn on your arm. What’s even more astonishing is that it’s small enough to fit comfortably, offering the wearer incredible mobility while working on intricate design and manufacturing tasks. If you are already feeling superhuman imagining the prospect of this wearable, you are not alone!

Designer: Jasper Mallinson

Imagine having a CNC machine at your disposal wherever you go. With Mecha-Morphis, this is now a reality. The device combines cutting-edge technology with ergonomic design, making it the perfect companion for architects, engineers, and designers who are always on the move. The frame of the portable and lightweight exoskeleton can move in six axes for six degrees of freedom in any direction. All the computer circuitry and other hardware attached to the machine is housed inside a small exposed backpack with the circuitry showing you mean business.

One of the most impressive features of Mecha-Morphis, envisioned as a part of Jasper’s final project from the Innovation Design Engineering masters course (by the Royal College of Art and Imperial College London) – is its versatility. Whether you need to carve intricate details on a piece of wood, sculpt delicate curves on metal, or 3D print a complex prototype – this wearable CNC machine can handle it all. It’s a design tool that adapts to your needs and allows you to unleash your creativity, no matter where you are. The Mecha-Morphis Wearable CNC Machine is not only resourceful for professionals but also for students and hobbyists. It offers the opportunity to learn and experiment with CNC technology in a portable, accessible way. The one-handed exoskeleton of sorts is a stepping stone for the next generation of designers and engineers.

Moreover, Mecha-Morphis is designed with sustainability in mind. It uses eco-friendly materials and efficient energy consumption, aligning with the global trend towards greener, more responsible manufacturing practices. It’s a testament to how innovation and environmental consciousness can go hand in hand. Empowering professionals to break free from traditional workshop constraints and explore new horizons, the Mecha-Morphis Wearable CNC Machine traverses the boundaries of conventional design, offering a glimpse into the future of creative freedom.

Disrupting the Creative Landscape: 3DMakerpro’s SEAL 3D Scanner Fits Right in Your Pocket + Budget

The state of affairs with 3D visualization is sort of the absolute opposite of the state of affairs with 2D visualization! With 2D, capturing is easy, reproducing is hard. Cameras are a dime a dozen… printers aren’t. But, with 3D it’s the other way around. 3D printers have vastly overtaken the 3D scanner industry, making it easy to build creations, but not so easy to capture existing 3D objects around you. The folks at 3DMakerpro want to change that. With a price as low as $199 for super early bird backers (regular buyers will have to pay the original MSRP of $359), the Seal and Seal Lite are portable consumer-grade 3D scanners with a high accuracy of 0.01mm/0.02mm (depending on the regular or lite variant), rivalling most industrial-grade 3D scanners. Designed to be pretty much held and used like a barcode scanner, the Seal uses a blue encoded light-based imaging system that delivers rich, detailed 3D scans with the wave of your hand. The scanner captures at a staggering speed of 100,000 points per second, recording both color and depth detail even in low light, with AI-powered tracking and stabilizing features. For that compelling price point, the folks at 3DMakerpro hope to shift the scales by making 3D capturing easier, more accessible, and more affordable than 3D printing!

Designers: Sun Jianfeng, Ding Yong, Wang Yuan, Li Ying, Luo Wei & Wang Xin of 3DMakerpro

Click Here to Buy Now: $239 $359 (33% off). Hurry, for a limited time only! Raised over $550.000.

Unsurpassed Resolution – Boasting a remarkable 0.05mm resolution, Seal captures intricate details effortlessly, offering up to 5 times the resolution of similar scanners.

Vivid Textures – 24-bit color camera adds vivid colors, contrast, and intricate details to models.

Faster Scanning – Single-frame coded structured light technology, each photo can generate a point cloud frame, achieving true 10fps.

Just as a standalone device, the Seal 3D scanner is no larger than a bar of soap. Built into it, however, is a high-definition color camera that captures 24-bit color and texture information onto a CMOS sensor, along with a blue-light encoded structured light 3D scanning system that captures 3D detail at up to 5x higher resolution than most cameras. This means crisper scans and accuracies of up to 0.01mm getting recorded in each file, effectively making the Seal’s scanning technology the best-in-class for consumer-level scanners (and even some professional scanners). This also translates to faster workflows because you spend up to 40% less time on 3D CAD software creating or touching up scanned models. The Seal Lite is just as efficient as its higher-end sibling, boasting the same scan speeds, but with accuracies of 0.02mm and Mono color/texture information instead of 24-bit.

Multi-Axis Turntable

The Seal and Seal Lite come with two accessories that make the scanning process buttery smooth. For smaller objects and for more controlled scans, the Multi-Axis Turntable lets you mount your Seal or Seal Lite on a static arm, while the object you want to scan sits on a rotating turntable. The turntable itself has a 90° swivel-arm for adjustable captures, and once set up, the entire process is completely automatic. The turntable rotates on its own, while 3D data gets captured and synced with 3DMakerpro’s JMStudio app.

Smart Grip

For objects too large to place on the turntable, the Smart Grip proves to be the perfect accessory. Attach it to the base of your Seal and it becomes almost like a barcode scanner, letting you capture 3D data with a wave of your hand. A Scan Distance Indicator on the back (facing the user) lets you adjust your scan range, while a single button lets you easily and intuitively start and stop scanning. The Smart Grip connects the Seal scanner to your phone (with dedicated iOS and Android apps) so you can pretty much scan objects anywhere without worrying about wires and laptops and other hardware, and a built-in 10,000 mAh battery gives you a whopping 240 minutes of continuous scanning or approximately 100 scan sessions on a full charge.

Brilliant in Darkness – 9-level light adjustment for versatile scanning in varying colors, materials, and lighting conditions.

Lightning-Fast Speed – Collecting 100,000 points per second, it swiftly scans body parts and more.

While it may seem like great hardware can instantly lead to great scans, the reality is that there’s a lot of software tweaking that goes on behind the surface to make the Seal as good as it is. For starters, the short-wavelength structured light system does a remarkable job of grabbing detail, but this is only enhanced by the Seal’s anti-shake optical stabilization that ensures a jittery hand doesn’t affect the scan output. Similarly, AI-based tracking allows the Seal to intuitively scan surfaces without requiring tracking markers, ensuring a seamless 3D model output that isn’t riddled with glitches and stitches. The Seal captures a stunning 100,000 data points per second, making scanning much faster, and a 9-level light adjustment features lets you scan comfortably in bright sunlight as well as low-light settings.

Versatile – Supports OBJ/STL/PLY/ASC formats, catering to all 3D model needs.

Compatible Software

Scanned data gets sent either to your smartphone app, or to the JMStudio software available on Windows and Mac-based systems. The Seal and Seal Lite both output in OBJ, STL, and PLY formats, while also recording in crisp 24-bit color too (or in Mono texture format for the Lite variant) for vivid scans. These scans can then directly be used in all 3D applications for modeling, rigging, animation, archviz, or even metaverse applications. Heck, if you own a 3D printer, you can take prints of your scanned objects too! The Seal 3D scanner starts at a discounted $399 (with an MSRP of $699) and comes with an aluminum outer housing, while the Seal Lite boasts of a discounted $199 price tag (and an MSRP of $359) and a plastic construction.

Click Here to Buy Now: $239 $359 (33% off). Hurry, for a limited time only! Raised over $550.000.

Top 20 Creative and Inspiring Ceiling Concepts

Designer: (FOXLINE Architects)

The ceiling is often overlooked in interior design, despite its crucial role in providing ambient light. Traditionally, decor schemes have focused on walls and floors, neglecting the potential of ceilings. However, with the growing popularity of false ceilings, the ceiling is now being recognized as the fifth wall. It can be enhanced with subtle colors, textures, or patterns to create a dramatic effect.

Designer: Philip Sassano

To enhance the aesthetic appeal of a false ceiling, different types of lighting fixtures can be utilized to complement the design and overall aesthetic of the interiors. These include LED recessed lights, cove lights, flush lights, task lights, and track lights, each contributing to the visual impact and ambiance of the space.

Explore these inspiring ideas to elevate your ceiling design to new heights.

1. Coffered Ceiling

Designer: Florida Homes & Living

The coffered ceiling in the living room captures the eye with its recessed square panels and striking grid-like framework, offering a clean and refined aesthetic. In this example, each grid is painted white, while the coffered beams match the surrounding walls. The ceiling design creates a relaxing atmosphere and complements the interiors without overwhelming them.

2. Decorate with Hexagons

Designer: Urban Office

The hexagonal patterns add a touch of drama to the ceiling design, effortlessly introducing patterns while also serving a functional purpose by integrating lighting into this otherwise bland space.

3. Wood Ceiling

Designer: Creat.int Studio

Wood is not limited to flooring and walls; it can also be utilized to design the ceiling. Take a look at how the wood ceiling panels bring a touch of drama to the plain ceiling surface and enhance the overall appearance of the interiors. Wood adds warmth and depth, while each individual panel contributes to a striped design strategically located at the center of the room. A central chandelier serves as the crowning jewel of the ceiling.

4. Stepped Ceiling

Designer: Khowal Architects

A play with levels adds a lot of drama to the ceiling design. In this open-plan layout, the ceiling has a stepped profile with a textured surface. Each layer releases diffused light to highlight the stepped profile, adding a sculptural look to the ceiling.

5. Experiment with Rattan

Designer: (FOXLINE Architects)

The sloping roof takes center stage in this design, with its rattan ceiling panel perfectly complementing the rustic grey geometric pattern flooring, making it a showstopper feature. One of the best aspects of using rattan is its flexibility as a natural material, allowing it to be woven into various items, including furniture.

6. Celebrate Minimalism

Designer: FarslinG Designer Bukhari Decorate

This contemporary living room features a plain ceiling that releases recessed cove lighting along the periphery of the room. This creates a relaxing and soothing ambiance as the warm, gentle light washes over the walls. Additionally, two sleek light fixtures are inserted into the ceiling to provide ambient lighting for this modern space.

7. Slatted Wood Ceiling

Designer: Gustafs

The slatted wood ceiling runs throughout the home, adding warmth and texture to the overall interiors. The stripes offer a crisp and contemporary look, it beautifully complements the flooring and brings cohesiveness to the space.

8. Play with Geometric Shapes

Designer: Fammu thekedar

The ceiling immediately captures attention with its triangular-shaped panels and cove lighting, showcasing the enchanting effect of recessed lights. In the narrow hallway, uniform flooring extends across the space while the ceiling panels are enhanced by recessed cove lighting, creating a dramatic effect. These panels serve as the centerpiece, commanding attention in the space.

9. Design with Octagons

Designer: Allison Seidler Interiors

The combination of interconnecting octagons that are made from wood creates a detailed design that effortlessly elevates the décor of this minimalist space.

10. Introduce Wooden Battens

Designer: Alkove Design

Wood beams are a versatile tool for crafting bold and clean designs on a false ceiling. In the lobby, horizontal wooden battens span gracefully, descending as downlighters, casting a wash of light on the walls and creating a prominent focal point. The alternating battens incorporate the downlighter feature. Additionally, the ceiling is designed to accommodate pendant lights, ensuring ambient lighting throughout the lobby.

11. Match the Ceiling with the Flooring

Designer: robust.studio

The zigzag floor patterns of the light and dark grey tiles are mirrored in the wooden ceiling, accompanied by sleek lights, creating a beautiful and dramatic entrance with a cohesive design.

12. Three Dimensional Ceiling

Designer: Hipcouch

This ceiling comprises a combination of inverted wooden pyramids with light emanating from the apices down to the base. It creates a sculptural effect, infusing dynamic and vibrant energy into the overall decor of this bright and airy conference room.

13. Introduce Mirrors

Designer: High Tieds

This false ceiling design creates a layered lighting effect by incorporating ceiling-mounted fixtures along with a modern chandelier at the center. Adding a wow factor to the ceiling, a square grid with mirror panels enhances the height, expansiveness, and spaciousness of the space. This design element instantly expands the room and reflects light.

14. Introduce a Circle

Designer: Vala Decor

The ceiling is adorned with a striking grey-colored painted circle, creating a prominent feature that breaks the monotony of the plain bedroom ceiling.

15. Sleek and Sophisticated

Designer: Newmat Australia

Timber veneer wall panels and a matching ceiling with continuous wooden battens transform this space, adding texture, design, and an element of lightness to the overall décor.

16. Acoustic Ceiling

Designer: Acoufelt

Acoustic panels have the power to enhance both the audio and aesthetic qualities of a room. In this example, a series of custom-cut acoustic panels with perforated circular holes are strategically placed to capture and trap sound in the space behind. Furthermore, the addition of timber battens adds a decorative touch and offers a longer look.

17. Criss-Cross Pattern

Designer: Linear Projects

The ceiling showcases a captivating criss-cross pattern in an integrated design that adds character, camouflages the services, incorporates suspended pendant lights, and achieves a captivating 3D effect. This grid serves as a striking accent feature, seamlessly blending elements together. Moreover, the combination of a high ceiling and all-glass walls beautifully synergizes to create a brilliant indoor-outdoor connection.

18. Concrete Ceiling

Photographer: Gilbert Li (Robarts Library, University of Toronto)

The sculptural ceiling design in this space showcases an intriguing geometric effect. The concrete ceiling features a series of repetitive triangles that add depth to the room. These triangles are incorporated within a larger triangle, resulting in an interesting design. It’s important to note that these triangular elements serve as structural elements that were carefully integrated during the design and construction phase of the building.

19. Stained Glass Ceiling

Photographer: marjo.ja (WAFI Mall)

Backlit or skylit stained glass ceiling panels can bring a sense of lightness and airiness to the decor. Integrating motifs, abstract designs, and even artwork on the ceiling can elevate the style quotient of the interiors, while stained glass has the power to take things to an entirely new level. It infuses the interiors with vibrant colors and intricate details. In this image, the blue stained glass ceiling in a pyramidal roof-shaped structure adds a wow factor to the overall décor of the atrium.

20. Ceiling Art Installation

Designer: Ricardo de la Torre

The artistic ceiling art installation in vibrant green hues weaves a surreal design story within this living room, creating a striking and dramatic ambiance. The organic shape of the ceiling art harmonizes with the organic shapes of the sofas and arches, resulting in a cohesive and visually pleasing design.