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Best 3D Scanners for DIY, Handheld, and App-Based Scanning
- Published November 06 2025 - Updated August 10 2026
This is a guide to 3D scanning technology, that is increasingly available and comes in a range of different formats to suit different applications.
3D scanners for 3D modeling have in the past year or so come a long way down in price and have become much easier to use for many applications by a large group of people. The scanners come in all shapes and sizes and can be tripod mounted for greater accuracy and or used as a handheld 3D scanner for greater portability for many different environments and applications for makers, hobbyists, 3D designers, 3D modeling, engineers, architects, conservators, archivists and businesses alike.
Here we look at three different scenarios with the best 3D scanners for DIY and Maker type projects, for handheld 3D scanning for greater portability, and for app-based 3D scanning using your smartphone for all of the various objects and environments.
HANDHELD 3D SCANNERS
Handheld 3D Scanners: Most Versatile for Individual Objects of Different Sizes.
1. Revopoint POP 3
The Revopoint POP 3 Scanner is a very affordable, light weight Scanner, which is compatible with Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. The Scanner uses two cameras and therefore generates a lot of detail for small to medium sized objects.
2. Shining 3D Einstar
Shining 3D Einstar: this 3D scanner can be used to capture objects in high detail with full color textures and is for the very low price connected via USB to your computer. It is the perfect scanner for makers, designers, engineers and for small to medium-sized businesses.
3. Creality CR-Scan 01
Creality CR-Scan 01. The Creality CR-Scan 01 3D scanner can perform AI-based automatic optimization of the scan. No more setting up markers on objects. The CR-Scan 01 is compatible with both Windows and macOS, making it ideal for use by makers, hobbyists and small businesses. It is also capable of handling large objects.
DIY 3D SCANNERS
A host of 3D scanners DIY exist, which are often cost effective due to their open source nature. This type of scanner can be made by hand, or even downloaded and put straight to work.
1. Ciclop by BQ
Ciclop by BQ: This is an open-source laser scanner. The device has to be completely assembled and also has to be calibrated by hand. This scanner is well-suited for small objects and can be connected to the software Horus.
2. FabScan Pi
This is a very affordable, lightweight and compact solution that is perfect for educational projects. A turntable is used to increase the precision of the scans, and there are many options to customize your FabScan Pi to your needs.
APP-BASED 3D SCANNERS
3D Scanning with Smart Phone Apps - Your objects can be 3D printed anytime and anywhere without the need of any hardware.
1. Polycam
The Polycam 3D scanner utilizes the LiDAR technology in the iPhone Pro models in order to create detailed 3D models through highly detailed mesh and texture. These 3D scanned models can then be exported into a variety of formats such as STL, OBJ, USDZ and many more in order to be used for a wide array of applications.
The scanner is particularly useful for individuals to create highly detailed 3D models of items such as furniture, interior spaces and even small 3D objects in order to utilize in design and other applications.
2. Trnio
Trnio uses AI to take a number of high resolution photos that it then turns into a 3D model of objects with mainly organic surfaces. As it uses your smart phone’s camera(s) there is no additional hardware required, and it’s free to download and use on the latest standard models of iPhones and most recent Android smart phones.
3. RealityScan by Epic Games
RealityScan by Epic Games. The free 3D scanner app is based on high-quality photogrammetry. In simple terms, it is very easy to use and perfect for 3D modelers and game developers. The scanner’s fast shooting feature makes it possible to complete a scan in no time at all.
CONCLUSION
When choosing a 3D scanner to complete your projects, it is important to consider a few things. The two most important are your needs and your budget. With Handheld Scanners that are very precise, DIY 3D Printers and scanners for the Maker, Open-Source Solutions and affordable App-based 3D Scanners for on-the-go work and much more in between, there is a 3D scanning solution for every single person whether amateur, artist or professional.
