It is the maker’s published accuracy under the conditions it states — object size, scanning mode, distance and surface. It is not a guarantee for every object, and it is separate from resolution, the spacing of points the scanner captures.
3D scanner listings print accuracy and resolution figures side by side, and each comes with conditions.
Accuracy
The accuracy figure describes how closely scanned points match the real surface under the maker’s test conditions. It depends on scanning mode, object size, distance and surface. Some makers also publish volumetric accuracy, which grows with object size.
Resolution
Resolution or point distance is how finely the scanner samples the surface. A fine point spacing captures small features, but accuracy decides whether those points are in the right place.
What affects a real scan
Surface finish: dark, shiny and transparent objects are difficult. Tracking: markers, geometry or texture that the scanner uses to stitch frames. Movement during scanning. Software processing, which smooths and fills.
How this site reports it
The accuracy is reported as the maker’s published figure with its stated conditions. Where conditions are not published, the page says so, and no scan result is promised for a given object.
If this page and the manufacturer’s manual disagree, follow the manual. Every laser power, speed, build volume, resolution, temperature and safety rating on this page is taken from the maker’s own documentation, with its unit as published and its source named — none of it is measured here. A figure is written the way the maker states it and is not converted into another convention, because the converted value would be a different number. And for any resolution figure: a screen’s pixel pitch, a minimum layer height or a step size is a specification of the machine, not a tolerance measured on a part. The accuracy of a finished object depends on the material, the calibration and the design. This page reports the maker’s figure as a specification and never as a guaranteed precision.
Questions makers ask before buying
Why do shiny or dark objects scan badly?
Many scanners rely on reflected light, and dark, transparent or reflective surfaces return it poorly. Makers often recommend scanning sprays for such objects.
Is volumetric accuracy different from single-shot accuracy?
Yes. Volumetric accuracy describes errors across a larger object scanned in many frames, and it depends on size. Makers that publish it usually give it per metre.
Last reviewed 15 September 2026