Laser Scanning vs Structured Light
Two leading 3D capture technologies compared: when to use laser scanning versus structured light scanning for your projects.
Laser Scanning (LiDAR)
Specifications
Pros
- Long-range capture (up to 1,000m+)
- Works in any lighting conditions
- Survey-grade accuracy (±1-2mm)
- Penetrates vegetation
- Excellent for large spaces
- No surface preparation required
- Fast capture for buildings/sites
Cons
- Higher equipment cost ($50K-$150K+)
- Point cloud may lack color detail
- Struggles with very dark/reflective surfaces
- Larger, heavier equipment
- Some scanner noise
Best For
Buildings, infrastructure, construction sites, large-scale as-built documentation, outdoor environments
Structured Light Scanning
Specifications
Pros
- Extremely high resolution (sub-millimeter)
- Excellent surface detail & texture
- Ideal for small/medium objects
- Lower equipment cost ($5K-$50K)
- Superior for organic shapes
- Fast processing pipelines
- Great for 3D printing output
Cons
- Limited range (typically <2m)
- Requires controlled lighting
- Sensitive to ambient light
- Multiple scans for large objects
- May require spray for shiny surfaces
Best For
Product design, quality inspection, reverse engineering, dental/medical, art/artifacts, small part measurement
Platform Overview
Scale Matters Most
Laser scanning for buildings/sites (meters to kilometers), structured light for objects/parts (millimeters to meters).
Accuracy Requirements
For sub-0.1mm accuracy on small parts, structured light is superior. For ±1-2mm on large spaces, laser scanning is more practical.
Environment Control
Laser scanning works anywhere; structured light needs controlled lighting. Outdoor work almost always requires laser scanning.
Industry Standards
AEC industry primarily uses laser scanning. Manufacturing QC and product design favor structured light.
Output Requirements
For CAD/BIM models of buildings: laser scanning. For 3D printing, reverse engineering small parts: structured light.
Our Verdict
The choice between laser scanning and structured light depends primarily on scale and application. Laser scanning excels at architectural and infrastructure documentation where long range and any-lighting operation are essential. Structured light wins for small-to-medium objects requiring sub-millimeter accuracy and rich surface detail. Many facilities use both: laser scanning for the building envelope and structured light for equipment or product inspection.
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