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3D scanning is immensely useful. The technology behind 3D scanning used to be locked behind very huge and very expensive equipment, meaning that unless you had the funds to invest in a 3D scanning machine, it would be limited to professionals like design studios or game developers, instead of hobbyists who are looking to pursue something on the side.
That being said, the tech behind 3D scanning has come a long way and these days, we’re seeing 3D scanners that are small and portable, like Creality’s CR-Scan Ferret Pro, a small and compact 3D scanner that you can pair with your phone and take with you on the go and make 3D scans anytime, anywhere!
Compact and portable, easy to use
One of the things you’ll notice about the Creality CR-Scan Ferret Pro is its size. It comes in a small portable carrying case and its overall footprint is about the size of a miniature tripod, with the scanning cameras about the size of a computer webcam. According to Creality, the scanner itself weighs only 105g, making it perfect to bring it around with you, slip it into a bag or your pocket and you’re good to go.
Now, the concept of 3D scanning might seem a little daunting if you have zero experience with it, but it is clear that Creality has designed the CR-Scan Ferret Pro with beginners in mind (even though its features can be used by professionals who need a mobile scanner). With a simple click, users can get started on their 3D scans right away.
All users need to do is connect the scanner to their phone, download the accompanying smartphone app, and they’re pretty much good to go right away. The smartphone app also appears to be pretty simple and straightforward to use, where users can use automated settings to make the scanning process easier.
The app also acts as a preview window where you can see the scan happening in real life, and there will also be prompts to help guide you through the process to help you get the best scans possible.
Fast, high quality scans
So we know that the CR-Scan Ferret Pro can scan, but what good is a scan if the scan quality itself is terrible? Thankfully, Creality has ensured that despite its small size and beginner-friendliness, the CR-Scan Ferret Pro can still make high quality scans.
This is thanks to the use of the 3D Imaging Specific ASIC chip which helps offload some of the processing to reduce the performance requirements of your PC and smartphone. This also allows the CR-Scan Ferret Pro to be capable of making larger scans, where users will be able to scan medium to large sized objects of up to 560 * 820mm.
The built-in high resolution camera also ensures that whatever scans you make will be faithful in terms of its color reproduction, which might be important for some who are trying to create realistic 3D models of certain objects, or artists who might need the color accuracy for their work.
In terms of overall accuracy, Creality claims that the CR-Scan Ferret Pro has an accuracy of up to 0.1mm, which means that for the most part whatever you scan will be near perfect in terms of its dimensions.
Another useful feature that might be useful is the CR-Scan Ferret Pro’s ability to scan objects that are black in color. Typically this might require scanning spray to help the scanner detect the edges of the object, but this will not be necessary with the CR-Scan Ferret Pro.
Smooth, anti-shake scanning technology
As we mentioned, the CR-Scan Ferret Pro was created to allow users to take 3D scanning technology on the go. By making it mobile, it unlocks a lot more potential in terms of how it is used.
For example, if you see a car in public that you would love to create a 3D model of, simply whip out the CR-Scan Ferret Pro and you’re good to go. This is versus finding a 3D model online or being forced to set up a 3D scan using expensive and heavy equipment. While this is an advantage, a disadvantage is that using your hands to move the scanner can result in shaky footage.
With the CR-Scan Ferret Pro, Creality has thought about that and that is why they have built anti-shake tracking technology into the scanner. This creates smooth scans, similar to how optical image stabilization helps reduce camera shake when shooting photos or videos in handheld mode.
The end result will be smooth scans even if there is a little bit of movement, so if you’re trying to capture an object in as true a form as possible, the anti-shake technology will come in handy.
Perfect for outdoor scanning
Usually 3D scanning is done indoors in a studio-like environment. This is because users have a greater degree of control over the lighting to ensure the best possible scans, but if you like the freedom of being able to explore nature while also making 3D models of bushes, flowers, plants, or animals, the CR-Scan Ferret Pro will let you do just that.
But what about the sunlight? Wouldn’t that interfere with the scan? Normally it would, but with the use of advanced optical technology and algorithms, the CR-Scan Ferret Pro will work even under bright sunlight, so you will still be able to achieve those high quality and accurate scans we talked about earlier.
Pricing & availability
If you think that Creality’s CR-Scan Ferret Pro is the portable 3D scanning solution that you’ve been looking for, it is available for purchase via Creality’s website. It is priced at $429 , but you can save $50 when you use discount code Ferret Pro at checkut (Oct. 10 – Nov. 10). Creality is also running an amazing 20% discount between Nov. 10 – Nov. 30, bringing the final price down to $343!
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