Over the past decade, 3D scanning has revolutionalyzed various industries, from engineering, to healthcare, to entertainment. But arguably the most exciting development in this field has been the rise of handheld 3D scanners. These handy devices enable everyone from professionals to hobbyists to harness the power of 3D scanning in the palm of their hands. Today, we're taking an in-depth look at some of the most popular and effective handheld 3D scanners currently in the market.

1. Artec Eva

The Artec Eva is renowned for its high-resolution scanning. It captures up to 16 frames per second with a resolution of 0.5mm. With accuracy that marks up to 0.1mm, it is perfect for those crucial projects that require precise measurements. Its true advantage, however, is in its easy usability. Its lightweight design and user-friendly software make it ideal for novices starting their journey into 3D scanning.

2. FARO Freestyle3D

FARO Freestyle3D is a device that boasts speed and precision. It's a top performer for scanning medium-sized objects, with 0.1mm accuracy and claims to work flawlessly in tricky lighting conditions. And with its onboard memory that can store up to 2 million points, data loss is the least of your worries. The FARO Freestyle3D also integrates with the FARO SCENE software for data processing, analysis, and sharing, enhancing the overall productivity.

3. Creaform HandySCAN 3D

The Creaform HandySCAN 3D provides excellent portability without compromising on the quality of scans. This state-of-the-art scanner is compact, lightweight and truly built for on-the-go scanning. The scanner demonstrates impressive accuracy of 0.05mm, making it a reliable tool for professional applications. Its Metrology-grade measurements ensure quality output even in the most challenging work environments.

4. Peel 3D

Peel 3D may be the one for you if you seek the balance of affordability and good quality. This low-cost scanner delivers a commendable performance with accuracy up to 0.25mm and resolution around 0.5mm. It’s easy to use, and CAD integrations make it a handy tool for reverse engineering, measurement, and digitizing any physical object.

5. Shining 3D EinScan Pro 2X Plus

The Shining 3D EinScan Pro 2X Plus is a versatile piece of kit that offers a choice between handheld and fixed scanning modes. It provides high-resolution 3D scans with an accuracy of up to 0.04mm, meeting industrial-grade demands. Its compatibility with various scanning and post-editing software solutions allows for easy integration into a professional workflow.

6. Matter and Form MFS1V2

The MFS1V2 by Matter and Form stands out for its compact form factor and excellent price-performance ratio. This handheld scanner is easy to use, portable, and delivers good quality scans within its price range. The scanner’s quick scan provision is commendable, making it a popular choice among 3D enthusiasts for smaller, quick projects.

Handheld 3D scanners are indeed a game-changer in the world of digitization, proving to be tools that combine convenience and functionality. Whether you're a professional seeking a high-performing scanner for commercial projects or a beginner looking to delve into the world of 3D scanning, there's a handheld scanner out there to meet your needs.