3D Scanning Market Size - By Component, Type, Range, Technology, End Use Industry Analysis, Share, Growth Forecast, 2025 - 2034

3D Scanning Market Size

The global 3D scanning market was valued at USD 5.1 billion in 2024 and is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 11.4% from 2025 to 2034.
 

The automotive and aerospace industries are leveraging 3D scanning for reverse engineering, quality inspection, and design optimization. In the automotive sector, manufacturers use 3D scanning to capture accurate vehicle measurements and improve assembly-line efficiency. Similarly, the aerospace industry utilizes the technology to inspect and maintain complex components, reducing downtime and ensuring compliance with stringent safety standards.
 

For instance, In May 2024, Hexagon’s Manufacturing Intelligence division introduced its first handheld 3D scanners, the ATLASCAN Max and MARVELSCAN, offering unmatched flexibility for measurement tasks across various environments, including automotive, rail, industrial equipment, manufacturing, and heritage restoration. Lightweight and portable, these scanners are ideal for both handheld and automated quality inspections, as well as diverse reverse engineering applications.
 

The ongoing development of cutting-edge technologies, such as structured light, laser triangulation, and photogrammetry, has significantly enhanced the precision, speed, and versatility of 3D scanning devices. These advancements are enabling applications across industries, including healthcare, automotive, aerospace, and manufacturing. High-resolution scanning capabilities and real-time data processing are also fostering adoption in quality control and metrology, where accuracy is paramount.
 

3D Scanning Market Trends

The increasing demand for mobility and flexibility has led to the development of portable and handheld 3D scanning devices. These compact solutions offer ease of use and adaptability, enabling on-site scanning in industries such as construction, automotive, and cultural heritage. Their affordability and ability to capture complex geometries with precision make them a popular choice for SMEs and individual professionals. This trend is further supported by improvements in battery life, wireless connectivity, and integration with mobile platforms, enhancing the convenience and efficiency of data capture.
 

The fusion of 3D scanning technology with artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) is driving significant innovation. AI-powered algorithms enhance the accuracy and efficiency of data processing by automating tasks such as noise reduction, feature recognition, and surface reconstruction. This integration is particularly transformative in applications like healthcare, where automated scans enable faster diagnostics, and in manufacturing, where it aids in predictive maintenance and real-time quality inspection. The synergy between AI and 3D scanning also facilitates adaptive scanning in dynamic environments, opening new opportunities in robotics and autonomous systems.
 

Digital twin technology, which creates virtual replicas of physical assets, is rapidly gaining traction across industries like aerospace, automotive, and construction. 3D scanning serves as a foundational tool for generating accurate digital twins, allowing organizations to simulate, monitor, and optimize the performance of their assets. This trend is particularly evident in smart factories and infrastructure projects, where digital twins help streamline operations, reduce costs, and enhance predictive maintenance strategies. The growing emphasis on Industry 4.0 and IoT integration further accelerates the adoption of 3D scanning within this context, highlighting its role as a key enabler of digital transformation.
 

3D Scanning Market Analysis

The adoption of 3D scanning technology often requires significant upfront investment, which includes not only the cost of acquiring the scanning equipment but also additional expenses for supporting software, system integration, and infrastructure upgrades. Advanced 3D scanners with higher accuracy and faster processing capabilities, such as laser-based or structured-light systems, are particularly expensive, making them less accessible to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Moreover, the operational complexity of these systems often necessitates specialized training for personnel, adding to both time and financial burdens. The challenge is further compounded by the need for regular calibration and maintenance to ensure optimal performance, which can lead to increased long-term operational costs. For industries operating on tight margins, these financial and logistical hurdles can discourage investment, delaying the broader adoption of 3D scanning technologies despite their potential to improve efficiency and innovation.
 

Based on range, the 3D scanning market is divided into short-range scanners, medium-range scanners, and long-range scanners. The short-range scanners segment dominated the global market with a share of 50.8% in 2024.
 

• Short-range scanners are designed for capturing highly detailed 3D data of objects within a proximity, typically up to a few meters. These scanners are ideal for applications requiring precision and fine detail, such as quality control in manufacturing, reverse engineering, and small-scale prototyping.
   
• Industries like healthcare, jewelry, and consumer electronics extensively use short-range scanners to create accurate 3D models of small and intricate components. Their portability and ease of integration with other technologies, such as CAD software, make them a preferred choice for tasks that demand both flexibility and high-resolution output.
   

Based on components, the market is divided into hardware and software. The hardware segment is expected to register revenue of USD 10.1 billion by 2034 during the forecast period and reach.
 

• The hardware segment in the 3D scanning market includes devices such as laser scanners, structured light scanners, and handheld scanners. This segment forms the foundation of the market, as the scanning hardware is essential for capturing physical dimensions and converting them into digital formats.
   
• Advances in hardware technology have led to the development of more compact, portable, and precise devices, catering to industries like automotive, healthcare, and manufacturing. Key differentiators in this segment include scanning speed, resolution, range, and durability, with manufacturers competing to offer versatile and reliable equipment tailored to diverse applications.
   

U.S. dominated the North America market in 2024, accounting for a share of 70.2%. The 3D scanning market in the United States is fueled by its diverse industrial base, cutting-edge technological ecosystem, and strong focus on innovation. The automotive and aerospace sectors are key adopters, leveraging 3D scanning for design prototyping, inspection, and reverse engineering. Additionally, healthcare applications, including the creation of customized prosthetics and surgical planning, are driving growth. The country also leads in integrating 3D scanning with AR/VR technologies, particularly in entertainment and real estate.
 

Japan 3D scanning industry is characterized by its strong focus on precision engineering and robotics. The technology is extensively used in the automotive and consumer electronics industries for quality assurance and product design. Japan also leverages 3D scanning for cultural preservation, digitizing historic sites and artifacts for archival and educational purposes. Additionally, the country is exploring applications in healthcare, particularly for dental imaging and prosthetics manufacturing.
 

China 3D scanning market is expanding rapidly, driven by the country’s large-scale manufacturing sector and increasing adoption of smart technologies. The automotive and construction industries are significant users, employing 3D scanning for design validation and site inspections. Government initiatives promoting Industry 4.0 and smart factories are further accelerating the adoption of 3D scanning solutions. Additionally, China is investing in 3D scanning for entertainment, gaming, and e-commerce applications, enhancing consumer experiences through AR/VR integration.
 

South Korea market benefits from the country’s leadership in technology innovation and its advanced manufacturing ecosystem. Technology is widely used in the electronics and automotive sectors for precision engineering and quality control. South Korea is also leveraging 3D scanning in medical imaging and dental applications, supported by its robust healthcare infrastructure. Furthermore, the country’s emphasis on digital content creation, including gaming and virtual production, is driving demand for high-resolution 3D scanning devices.
 

3D Scanning Market Share

The 3D scanning industry is highly competitive, with key players such as 3D Systems, FARO Technologies, Hexagon AB, and Nikon Corporation vying for market share through innovation, product differentiation, and strategic partnerships. Competition is primarily driven by technological advancements, as companies strive to offer superior accuracy, speed, and versatility in their 3D scanning solutions.
 

Price competitiveness also plays a significant role, particularly in cost-sensitive regions and among small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Distribution channels are another critical factor, with players expanding their global presence through partnerships, regional offices, and online platforms. Additionally, customization and after-sales support are increasingly being used to enhance customer loyalty and establish a competitive edge in this dynamic market.
 

3D Scanning Market Companies

Major players operating in the 3D scanning industry are:

• 3D Digital Corporation
• 3D Systems, Inc.
• Autodesk, Inc.
• Artec 3D
• Automated Precision, Inc. (API)
• Carl Zeiss Optotechnik GmbH
• Creaform Inc.
• Direct Dimensions Inc.
• FARO Technologies, Inc.
• GOM GmbH
• Hexagon AB
• Konica Minolta, Inc.
• NextEngine Inc.
• Nikon Corporation
• OGI Systems Ltd
• ShapeGrabber
   

3D Scanning Industry News

• In September 2024, Shining 3D launches latest EINSTAR VEGA wireless 3D scanner. The EINSTAR VEGA is crafted to cater to designers, artists, engineers, and creators looking for a portable, user-friendly solution for capturing high-quality data with ease. Unlike Shining 3D's industry-specific scanners, which target regulated sectors like medical, aerospace, and automotive, the VEGA addresses the needs of users who prioritize usability and versatility over metrology-grade precision. It is designed for everyday applications, including 3D measurement, digital archiving, object restoration, and artistic projects, offering a flexible and accessible option for diverse creative and technical tasks.
   
• In September 2024, Artec 3D, a global leader in 3D scanning hardware and software, launched its first target-based laser scanner, Artec Point, as part of its expansion into industrial metrology. Offering precision down to hundredths of a millimeter, Artec Point provides high-quality data for reverse engineering, quality inspection, and other rigorous metrology applications, complementing the company’s existing portfolio known for speed, accuracy, and versatility across industries.
   

This 3D scanning market research report includes in-depth coverage of the industry with estimates & forecasts in terms of revenue (USD Billion) from 2021 to 2034, for the following segments:

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Market, By Component

• Hardware
  • 3D Scanners
  • Accessories
• Software

Market, By Range

• Short-range scanners
• Medium-range scanners
• Long-range scanners

Market, By Technology

• Laser triangulation
• Time-of-Flight (ToF)
• Structured light
• Photogrammetry
• Laser pulse

Market, By Type

• Laser scanners
  • Handheld
  • Stationary
  • Mobile
• Structured light scanners
• Optical scanners
• Contact scanners
• Non-contact scanners

Market, By End-use Industry

• Automotive
• Aerospace & defense
• Consumer electronics
• Healthcare
• Oil & gas
• Energy and power
• Others

The above information is provided for the following regions and countries:

• North America
  • U.S.
  • Canada
• Europe
  • UK
  • Germany
  • France
  • Italy
  • Spain
  • Russia
• Asia Pacific
  • China
  • India
  • Japan
  • South Korea
  • Australia 
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
• MEA
  • UAE
  • Saudi Arabia
  • South Africa