3D scanning has become the shortcut makers and manufacturers have been looking for: capture a real object, turn it into a usable 3D model, then iterate in CAD or send it straight to print. MatterHackers carries a range of scanners for exactly this reason—scanning saves time when duplicating parts, reverse-engineering geometry, or rebuilding objects that can't easily be measured by hand.

So why do Shining 3D's EINSTAR and EinScan scanners come up so often? They cover a wide range of users without compromising on the core promise—fast capture, flexible operation outside the lab, and software that helps you get from point cloud chaos to a printable mesh with fewer headaches.

5 Reasons These Scanners Keep Showing Up in Workflows

  1. Built for scanning outside controlled environments
    The EINSTAR line emphasizes portability and flexible capture scenarios, including indoor and outdoor use.
  2. Hybrid light approaches handle difficult targets
    Models combine different light sources (blue laser plus infrared VCSEL, or LED plus infrared) to improve tracking and expand the range of scannable surfaces.
  3. Wireless and onboard computing reduce setup friction
    Many scanners offer built-in computing or flexible work modes (standalone, wireless-to-PC, wired-to-PC).
  4. The lineup scales from entry-level to professional needs
    EINSTAR covers approachable handheld scanning, while EinScan extends into demanding workflows—higher accuracy, hybrid laser scanning, human scanning, and turntable workflows.
  5. Clear focus on measurement standards and calibration
    Shining 3D uses established evaluation standards like VDI/VDE 2634 and accuracy traceability, helping buyers understand what "accuracy" claims actually mean.

The EINSTAR Lineup

EINSTAR – Approachable handheld scanning with full-color capture and speeds up to 14 FPS. Great for makers, schools, and small shops getting started.

EINSTAR 2 – Improved detail capture with true wireless design and hybrid light system (blue laser plus infrared VCSEL) for stable tracking across varied objects.

EINSTAR VEGA – All-in-one device with built-in display, internal computing, and 48 MP RGB camera. Perfect for scanning in different rooms, classrooms, or field environments.

EinScan Rigil – Tri-mode handheld scanner (standalone, wireless PC, wired PC) with built-in computing and hybrid light source. The bridge into professional handheld work.

The EinScan Professional Line

EinScan Pro 2X V2 – Supports handheld or fixed scanning with accuracy up to 0.04 mm and high-speed point capture. Versatile for small-to-medium objects.

EinScan H2 – Built for people, soft goods, and organic forms with hybrid light sources (infrared plus LED) and color camera for texture capture.

FreeScan Combo Series – Metrology-focused hybrid scanning with blue laser plus infrared, including 26 or 50 laser-line modes, IR scanning without markers, and accuracy up to 0.02 mm in laser modes.

Which One is Right for You?

  • Accessible scan-to-print for hobby, education, props, or small parts → EINSTAR
  • Wireless freedom and better detail capture → EINSTAR 2
  • All-in-one with onboard workflow and built-in screen → EINSTAR VEGA
  • Flexible pro scanning (handheld and fixed) for small-to-medium objects → EinScan Pro 2X V2
  • Scanning people or texture-heavy subjects → EinScan H2
  • Metrology-focused industrial scanning for parts inspection and accurate capture on challenging surfaces → FreeScan Combo Series

Practical Tips for Better Results

Control reflections: Shiny and transparent parts often need scanning spray or surface prep.

Use markers when appropriate: Markers stabilize alignment on smooth geometry.

Think in passes, not perfection: Capture the overall form first, then re-scan key regions.

Plan your output: Decide early whether you need a watertight mesh for printing or dimensional surfaces for CAD.

Let MatterHackers Help you Decide

EINSTAR and EinScan scanners are popular because they let more people do useful 3D capture, more often, in more places—without forcing everyone into a lab-only setup.

Browse MatterHackers' Shining 3D scanner lineup and compare by the type of objects you scan most often.