Creaform
Handyscan Black
Elite

This scanner is a high-end device designed for industrial application such as quality assurance and product development. However, it may not be your first choice due to the necessity of using targets, which increases both the complexity and cost of the scanning process.

Creaform Handyscan Black Elite

Is it the best product on the market?

While considering Creaform, which could be a good choice, bear in mind some aspects may not be explicitly mentioned in the specifications – but remain crucial to your workflow.

If you're investing in a high-quality 3D scanner, there are numerous factors that you're likely to encounter only after the purchase. Choose wisely to make sure you're getting a cost-effective solution that meets your quality standards, while also considering the time-saving benefits.

Think about the total cost

There might be hidden costs like training, software, and accessories.

Ensure optimal scanning time

Consider the scanning speed and how much time you'll need to spend preparing objects for scanning. Creaform scanners require targets, which add to your preparation time, so it will take significantly longer for you to achieve the final result compared to analogs without targets.

Speed matters: different scanners, different results

As with all laser scanners, Creaform's scanning speed also makes the process more time consuming as you will need to carefully scan the object to avoid holes in your data.

Stick to your accuracy standards

Remember that your model's accuracy also depends on many factors, which may not be realistic, and often, the stated accuracy can only be achieved under ideal circumstances. So, test before buying.

Keep it easy – and relevant

Look into the scanner's ease of use and software compatibility to be sure it fits seamlessly into your workflow. Make sure the scanner meets your project and application needs: if you're in forensics, for example, you won't need a scanner for industrial design.

Top alternatives to Creaform on the market

One great alternative to Creaform you might consider is Artec 3D scanners, which offer a cost-effective solution that meets quality standards across a diverse range of industries, along with noticeable time-saving benefits. While Creaform scanners are designed for industrial projects mainly, Artec scanners are versatile and robust devices suitable not only for those projects, but many more. They deliver soaring accuracy and exceptional scanning speed without the need for targets, and there are no hidden costs.

Compare the difference: See the same object scanned by different 3D scanners

Do you need the right scanner for one of these applications?

High-precision 3D measurements for reverse engineering, quality inspection, and product design

Artec Point
Creaform HandySCAN BLACK Elite
PriceAffordable excellence at $26,300Higher upfront cost and lower value efficiency at $65,000
AccuracyUnmatched: up to 0.020 mm, resulting in highly repeatable metrology dataRegular: up to 0.025 mm, less precise than Artec Point
Resolution0.020 mm, adapting to different surfaces0.100 mm, lacking the fine detail.
Scanning SpeedAt 2.8 million points per second, cuts down project timeAt 1.3 million points per second, requires longer scanning sessions
VersatilityAdapts to industry needsLimited flexibility
Software IntegrationFlawless compatibility with major CAD/CAM software, export to Geomagic Design X, Geomagic Control X, Zeiss InspectPowered by VXelements, compatible with other software, but might require extra software purchases
Crucial benefitStunningly accurate models in less time, driving quicker ROIResults for industrial teams ready for larger investments and a more complex setup

Why choose? Artec Point has 20% higher accuracy (VDI/VDE 2634, ISO 17025 certified), 5X the resolution, and more compact design for scanning hard-to-reach surfaces. At a half the cost – it is a more cost-effective choice.

Scratch-detailed 3D scanning of shapes of objects for science, preservation, healthcare, education

Artec Leo
Creaform HandySCAN BLACK Elite
PriceA highly affordable option at $34,800, with no hidden costsFrom $65,000, meaning higher initial investment and additional costs for positioning targets
Ease of UseThe ultimate scanning freedom: fully wireless for real-time scanning, even in hard-to-reach areasRequires connection to an external computer and depends on positioning targets for scanning
SpeedUltra-fast preparation, blazing at 34 million points/sec, excellent speed-quality ratioExtremely time-consuming to set-up (up to 2-3 hours) and slower task completion at 1.4 million points/sec
VersatilityCaptures both color and geometry in any lighting conditionNo color capture, functions in rigidly controlled environment
Crucial benefitEasy, fast, precise, and target-free scanning at half the price.Results in specific industrial applications if using targets and greater investment are not an issue.

Why choose? Artec Leo is perfect for 3D scanning of medium to large objects with 0.1 mm accuracy. Fully portable and wireless. With color capture and 20X faster data acquisition than Creaform Black Elite, it's a highly efficient, cost-effective choice at half the price.

High-speed 3D scanning of medium-sized and large objects

Artec Spider II
Creaform HandySCAN BLACK Elite
PriceAt $29,700, competitively priced with no extra costs for targetsFrom $65,000: higher initial investment and ownership cost plus extra for targets.
PrecisionPerfect for small, detailed objects with complex geometry at 0.050 mmOnly suited for larger industrial parts at 0.100 mm
SpeedInstant set-up and ultra-fast at 8 million points/secExtremely time-consuming to set up (up to 2-3 hours), limited to 1.4 million points/sec
Ease of useNo need for targetsRequires external computer, depends on targets
SoftwareExport to Geomagic Design X, Geomagic Control X, Zeiss InspectVXelements' tools and integration with various CAD software.
ColorBuilt-in color captureGeometry only
Crucial benefitUnbeatable ultra-high precision results when rendering small, complex objectsResults for industrial teams working with large parts and assemblies, prepared to invest time in setup for each scan.

Why choose? Artec Spider II is offering higher geometry resolution that rivals professional white-light scanners. Unlike Creaform Black Elite, it needs no targets, saving time and costs – ideal when objects must not be touched or modified.

How is Artec 3D different?

"From looking at what has been captured, the amount of detail, compared to what I've seen previously, is second to none. It's incredible, for what I've actually seen produced before."

John Hughes,

University of Wales Trinity Saint David

"With Leo, we can just pick up and go. We can take it with us anywhere throughout the shop, and it's ready to scan, no laptop, no cables, everything's built in. Even out in the parking lot or at a client's location...it scans like a dream even on a bright summer day, full data capture from the first go."

Lorenzo Strong,

VP of Sales, West Coast Customs

Artec Leo

Leo

A wireless, portable laser 3D scanner with an inbuilt touchscreen and intuitive UI for easy 3D scanning.

Artec Point

Point

An industrial handheld 3D laser scanner for capturing small-to-large objects in metrology-grade accuracy, for applications such as quality control and reverse engineering.

Artec Spider II

Spider II

Designed to capture ultra-high resolution scans of complex objects, intricate details, and sharp edges in full color with no targets needed.

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In summary

Artec LeoArtec Spider IIArtec PointCreaform Handyscan Black Elite
Targets/markers--MandatoryMandatory
Resolution★★★☆☆★★★★★★★★★☆★★★★☆
Accuracy★★★☆☆★★★★☆★★★★★★★★★★
Scanning speed★★★★★★★★★☆★★★☆☆★★☆☆☆
Tracking/Registration★★★★★★★★★☆★★★☆☆★★★★☆
Difficult to reach areas★★★★★★★★★☆★★★☆☆★★☆☆☆
Shiny, black, translucent★★★☆☆★★★★☆★★★☆☆★★★★★
Software toolset★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★☆
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FAQ

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Expert working with 3D scanner and mechanical parts