When comparing Makerbot Digitizer vs Artec Space Spider, the Slant community recommends Artec Space Spider for most people. In the question“What are the best non-contact 3D scanners? ” Artec Space Spider is ranked 9th while Makerbot Digitizer is ranked 11th. The most important reason people chose Artec Space Spider is:
The 0.1mm resolution is the best available for a handheld 3D scanner. This scanner combines the freedom and versatility of a handheld scanner with the accuracy of a stationary unit.
Specs
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Pros
Pro Convenient automated scanning process
Using the scanner’s automated turning table results in accurate 360-degree scans of the target object, which is quicker and more convenient than moving the object (or the scanner) to get all of its sides.
Pro Straightforward calibration process
Since the camera and the laser generators are in a fixed position, calibrating them is quite simple. This needs to be done periodically, in order to get optimal results. The scanner can calibrate itself, the user only has to follow some simple instructions (like placing the calibration tool on the device's turning table).
Pro Companion software is very user friendly
MakerWare for Digitizer, the companion software for this scanner, is quite intuitive to use. After placing the object in the scanner's turntable, you can simply open MakerWare and start scanning. When you have enough scans of the object, you can then fuse all of them into a 360 degree STL model.
Pro Great scan resolution
The 0.1mm resolution is the best available for a handheld 3D scanner. This scanner combines the freedom and versatility of a handheld scanner with the accuracy of a stationary unit.
Pro Companion software is great
Artec Studio, the official software for this scanner, is versatile, user friendly, and very well documented. Every aspect of the software is described well on the official documentation. It’s also powerful and intuitive, making it quite worth the hefty price.
Cons
Con Can only scan small objects
This device can only scan objects that fit in the 20.3 cm cubic space "seen" by the scanner. There is no way to increase this size.
Con Has many poor user reviews
Almost half of the Amazon customer reviews gave this product a one star rating. Common complaints say the scanner underperforms compared to advertised specs, has issues with sharp edge scanning or just outright fails to work. Their technical support service has also been criticized heavily.
Con Expensive
This device is quite expensive, making it a purely industrial product, as only medium or large companies are able to afford it.
Con Scanning distance is quite limited
In order to get maximum precision, you need to make sure the scanner stays within the 0.2 m - 0.3 m range distance from the target object. This 0.1 m margin is low for a handheld device and can be an issue, especially since it takes several minutes to complete a scan.
Con Official software requires an extra investment
As with other Artec scanners, purchasing an Artec Studio annual license costs $400.