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.

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 | |
---|---|---|
Price | Affordable excellence at $26,300 | Higher upfront cost and lower value efficiency at $65,000 |
Accuracy | Unmatched: up to 0.020 mm, resulting in highly repeatable metrology data | Regular: up to 0.025 mm, less precise than Artec Point |
Resolution | 0.020 mm, adapting to different surfaces | 0.100 mm, lacking the fine detail. |
Scanning Speed | At 2.8 million points per second, cuts down project time | At 1.3 million points per second, requires longer scanning sessions |
Versatility | Adapts to industry needs | Limited flexibility |
Software Integration | Flawless compatibility with major CAD/CAM software, export to Geomagic Design X, Geomagic Control X, Zeiss Inspect | Powered by VXelements, compatible with other software, but might require extra software purchases |
Crucial benefit | Stunningly accurate models in less time, driving quicker ROI | Results 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 | |
---|---|---|
Price | A highly affordable option at $34,800, with no hidden costs | From $65,000, meaning higher initial investment and additional costs for positioning targets |
Ease of Use | The ultimate scanning freedom: fully wireless for real-time scanning, even in hard-to-reach areas | Requires connection to an external computer and depends on positioning targets for scanning |
Speed | Ultra-fast preparation, blazing at 34 million points/sec, excellent speed-quality ratio | Extremely time-consuming to set-up (up to 2-3 hours) and slower task completion at 1.4 million points/sec |
Versatility | Captures both color and geometry in any lighting condition | No color capture, functions in rigidly controlled environment |
Crucial benefit | Easy, 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 | |
---|---|---|
Price | At $29,700, competitively priced with no extra costs for targets | From $65,000: higher initial investment and ownership cost plus extra for targets. |
Precision | Perfect for small, detailed objects with complex geometry at 0.050 mm | Only suited for larger industrial parts at 0.100 mm |
Speed | Instant set-up and ultra-fast at 8 million points/sec | Extremely time-consuming to set up (up to 2-3 hours), limited to 1.4 million points/sec |
Ease of use | No need for targets | Requires external computer, depends on targets |
Software | Export to Geomagic Design X, Geomagic Control X, Zeiss Inspect | VXelements' tools and integration with various CAD software. |
Color | Built-in color capture | Geometry only |
Crucial benefit | Unbeatable ultra-high precision results when rendering small, complex objects | Results 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

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

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.

Spider II
Designed to capture ultra-high resolution scans of complex objects, intricate details, and sharp edges in full color with no targets needed.
In summary
Artec Leo | Artec Spider II | Artec Point | Creaform Handyscan Black Elite | |
---|---|---|---|---|
Targets/markers | - | - | Mandatory | Mandatory |
Resolution | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★☆ |
Accuracy | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
Scanning speed | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★☆☆ | ★★☆☆☆ |
Tracking/Registration | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★★☆ |
Difficult to reach areas | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★☆☆ | ★★☆☆☆ |
Shiny, black, translucent | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★★☆ | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★★★ |
Software toolset | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ |
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FAQ
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