3D scanning technology has been around since the ‘60s, but only over the past decade have 3D scanners become truly accessible to makers and hobbyists. A lot of advancements in scanning technology have led to the development of high-accuracy, easy-to-use scanners that cost less than $1,000.
Undoubtedly, one of the best consumer-grade 3D scanners on the market right now is the Revopoint POP 3 scanner.
I had a blast testing the device and finding its limits over the last few weeks!
The Revopoint POP 3 scanner costs just under $600, and is extremely versatile, with multiple scanning modes for capturing objects of all shapes and sizes. The accompanying Revo Scan software lets you easily post-process and precisely edit the generated 3D models, such as to 3D print them. You can even do it on your phone!
In the following sections, I’ll take you through my in-depth review of the Revopoint POP 3 3D scanner, including its scanning accuracy, interface features, and more! Enjoy!
Revopoint POP 3 Scanner Summary
If you’re searching for a consumer-friendly 3D scanner that can produce professional results, the Revopoint POP 3 3D scanner should definitely be on your list. It’s unbelievably precise and can scan everything from simple widgets to a detailed 3D selfie.
Pros
High-resolution scanning capabilities
Advanced post-processing software
Many scan editing capabilities via the Revo Scan software
ntuitive and simplified user interface
Many included accessories (e.g. tripod, electronic turntable)
Wide device compatibility (smartphones, iPads, tablets, laptops, etc.)
Cons
Somewhat expensive
Learning curve (especially for post-processing your 3D scans)
Certain surfaces and textures result in poor quality scans
Scanner Features:
Single-frame precision of up to 0.05mm
Fast scanning speeds of up to 18 fps
An RGB camera with 30% larger aperture
Better color accuracy
9-axis IMU for a better tracking and frame stitching
Single capture range: 244 x 180mm
Assembly & Setup
The Revopoint POP 3 arrives in a compact white package. Once you tear through the box, you’ll find a felt-wrapped carrying case that both looks and feels very high quality.
Inside the case is the POP 3 3D scanner device, a handheld tripod, an electronic turntable, and 10+ other accessories to help with the 3D scanning process. While we’ll go over more into the included accessories in a later section, they make the device suitable for scanning all sorts of special objects, regardless of size, texture, etc.
To get started with your first scan, take out the scanning module, tripod, turntable, USB-C cables, and, of course, the object you want to 3D scan. Also make sure to have your PC, laptop, smartphone, or tablet ready as you’ll need this to process the data from the scanner.
Begin by sliding the scanning module into the mount on the tripod. Next, screw in the USB-C cable to the backside of the scanning module and connect the other side (either USB-A or USB-C) to a power adaptor. If you’re using your laptop (or PC), you can power the scanner directly from an available USB port.
Now use another USB-C cable to power the turntable and set the switch to “CW” (clockwise). Place your object at the center of the turntable and extend the arms of the scanner tripod. Take your time to position the scanner (on the tripod) so it is directed at your object and fits the entire object in the frame.
On your chosen device, download the compatible Revo Scan software, available on basically any smart device. While the tablet and phone apps are usable, the desktop version of Revo Scan (5) provides a lot more tools for editing and improving your scan.
Next, you’ll need to connect your scanner to your chosen device, which is possible either via USB or a special Wi-Fi connection. The wireless option works perfectly, which is surprising given the amount of data transmitted between the scanner and your mobile device. However, I recommend using the wired option to lower the chance of any issues.
Once connected, open the Revo Scan application, turn on the turntable detection feature, and get scanning! After you’re done scanning, the software will guide you through the post-processing sequence and you’ll be left with a 3D model version of your scanned object.
It’s that easy!
Design & Features
The Revopoint POP 3 is a fan-favorite for far more reasons than just its futuristic appearance. The scanner offers an array of high-definition cameras, sensors, and other features that make it capable of accurate and precise 3D scans. Plus, the Revo ecosystem, specifically the Revo Scan software, brings a lot of additional value to the scanner.
We’ll take a deeper look into some of the Revo POP 3’s notable features in the sub-sections below!
Impressive Accuracy
The most impressive part of the Revopoint POP 3 is undoubtedly its accuracy and precision. The scanner blew my socks off by capturing every small geometry on the 3D models I was scanning. This scanner simply does not miss!
According to the manufacturer, the POP 3 has a single-frame precision and a point-to-point distance as low as 0.05 mm. In more simple terms, this scanner can capture details on objects that are roughly twenty times smaller than a grain of rice. So, unless you’re trying to scan your wife’s diamond ring, the POP 3 has got you covered!
As for what exactly you can scan, any object larger than a small 3D print (20 x 20 x 20 mm) and smaller than a motorbike (2,500 x 2,500 x 2,500 mm) should work with a high degree of precision.
On a separate note, Revopoint recommends scanning with the POP 3 anywhere from 150 and 400 mm away from your 3D object. However, you can always break these guidelines as long as you take other measures (e.g. using markers or scan spray) to ensure the scanner can capture enough “points” to generate a 3D model.
Multiple Scanning Modes
The Revopoint POP 3 can scan a wide range of objects regardless of size, texture, and complexity. This is only possible because the POP 3 has multiple scanning “modes” due to its wide array of onboard cameras and sensors, as well as the complex software supporting the device.
Furthermore, you can change the scanning mode by reconfiguring the physical POP 3 (e.g. keeping it stationary) and adjusting the proper settings in the Revo Scan software. You might want to do this depending on certain aspects of the scan you’re performing, such as the object’s shape and size, the surface texture, and even the amount of sunlight in the room.
Using the configuration I described in the “Assembly & Setup” section should work for scanning all small and medium-sized objects with opaque surface textures. However, for scanning objects with translucent or reflective surfaces, you should switch to marker mode.
You can check out Revopoint’s website to learn more about the strengths and weaknesses of each scanning mode.
RGB Camera
Another great feature of the Revopoint POP 3 is its built-in RGB camera. For any non-LED-lovers, “RGB” stands for red-green-blue and is the concept that allows many cameras to capture color in photos and videos.
The RGB camera on the POP 3 makes capturing the actual color of the object you’re scanning possible, adding another level of “wow” to the experience.
You can turn on the color scanning feature by clicking the color wheel icon in the Revo Scan software when scanning an object.
Integrated LEDs
Another feature of the POP 3 that goes above and beyond its competition is its integrated LED lights. When activated via the Revo Scan software, the POP 3’s two built-in LEDs start flashing from the front of the scanner.
These LEDs allow you to take accurate scans in settings with poor or insufficient background lighting. And, believe it or not, these two small LEDs can make a significant impact on the quality of the scan and resulting 3D model.
Simplified Controls
As I’ve mentioned, the Revopoint POP 3 was the first 3D scanner I’ve ever used. And while my 3D printing experience lent itself useful in using the device, I had zero real background knowledge on how to use a 3D scanner. Regardless, the Revopoint POP 3’s onboard interface, as well as the GUI of the Revo Scan software, made using the device a total breeze!
If you look at the back of the Revopoint POP 3, you’ll see that there are only 3 buttons, each represented by an icon.
The “+” and “-” buttons control the exposure of the scanner’s depth camera, which helps when adjusting for light in your scanning environment. And, as you probably guessed, the play button icon in the center starts, pauses, and stops the scan.
You can also easily adjust the exposure in the Revo Scan software, as well as many other elements of the scan to further control the quality.
To be frank, I think the controls on the scanner’s hardware are a little pointless as all the same features can be controlled in any version of the Revo Scan software. However, it’s nice to at least have the option for direct, manual control over the scanner.
Device Compatibility
While 3D scanners have existed for decades, most require a desktop to post-process the collected 3D scan data. However, Revo made a point (see what I did there?) to make the POP 3 compatible with just about every type of device a typical hobbyist would keep around.
Furthermore, the POP 3 works on iPhones, iPads, Android phones, Android tablets, Windows computers, and Mac computers. Having tried the Revo Scan 5 software on most of these devices, I can honestly say that they are some of the most well-developed hardware-supporting applications I’ve ever used. Especially the iPad version, but we’ll go over that later!
Powerful Software
The POP 3’s hardware – sensors, cameras, accessories, etc. – are undoubtedly impressive. But the suite of software behind the POP 3 is really what makes this scanner stand out in a crowd.
As I mentioned, the POP 3 scanner works alongside just about any household smart device or computer. This is thanks to Revopoint’s relentless efforts to offer their flagship scanning software, Revo Scan 5, on iOS, Android, Windows, and MacOS platforms.
And you won’t have to worry about outdated software, as Revopoint frequently updates the Revo Scan application to improve usability and features.
As for the scanning software itself, the Revo Scan app is essential to generating and post-processing 3D scans. Once you connect your POP 3 to your compatible device, you’ll use the software to start the scan, monitor the progress, make adjustments to the point cloud data, and export the final model.
I was blown away when I first launched the Revo Scan 5 on my iPad Pro. The interface is modern and runs flawlessly, and all the features you need to create your first scan are easy to find.
I especially loved the split-screen layout of the Revo Scan tablet app. Moreover, you can view depth camera, RGB camera, and generated point cloud model simultaneously.
Not only does this look super cool, but the multi-view layout makes it easy to identify which areas of your model require additional scanning time. This feature is instrumental to consistently creating high-quality scans!
when using the desktop versions of the Revo Scan 5 app. I’d suggest sticking to the Windows or MacOS scanning software if you plan on capturing complex objects. That’s because these versions of Revo Scan 5 offer a boatload more editing features, which really let you perfect the final design.
I should also note that I ran the software on my iPhone (11 Pro) as well, and it handled the scanning and rendering with ease. However, the smartphone versions of the app come with the fewest features, so keep this in mind.
Included Accessories
The full list of items that come with the Revopoint POP 3 are below:
- Revopoint POP 3 3D scanner device
- Handheld tripod
- Marker topper
- Phone holder
- USB adaptors
- Various USB-C cables
- 2-in-1 mobile device cable
- Electronic turntable (USB)
- Calibration board
- Carry case (with zipper)
- Magic mat
- Marker dot sheets
- Sample bust
- User manual, quick-start guide, and warranty card
Most of the accessories are pretty straightforward, but some aren’t directly covered in the scope of this review.
For instance, I didn’t need to use the marker dots for any of the objects I scanned. However, they are extremely useful for scanning objects with translucent, reflective, or other abnormal surface textures. Additionally, using markers when scanning regular (opaque) models can still significantly improve the quality of the final 3D model.
The calibration board is also extremely useful when working with the POP 3, especially if you plan on scanning a lot of different objects in different locations. As indicated in the name, the calibration board lets you reset the tracking of the scanner so old scans don’t negatively impact the quality of new scans.
Lastly, the jumble of extra USB-C cables is meant to allow you to easily use the scanner with devices other than desktops and PCs. I loved the mobile cable and found it made powering the device while using it much easier!
Test Cases
Of course, features alone don’t prove this scanner’s worthiness; only real results can. To best show you the capabilities of the Revopoint POP 3, I scanned four unique objects across various platforms. The results are the following:
Human Bust
Included in the Revopoint POP 3 package is a detail-heavy human bust, meant to serve as a benchmark to evaluate the scanner’s accuracy.
This was my first 3D scan ever and I was instantly blown away by the astonishing results. The Revopoint POP 3 precisely captured the 3D model down to the tiny whisps of hair on the top of the bust.
Billiards Ball
Next, because I was conducting my review of the POP 3 on a pool table, I thought it fitting to scan a billiards ball. Of course, a black 8 ball has a glossy surface, but this helped me stress test the POP 3. Check out the results below: followed by 7 images the first placeholder is done
3D Printed Model
3D printing is one of the most popular use cases for 3D scanners and a personal passion of mine. So the next object I scanned was a little MatterHackers statue, printed in MatterHackers’ dichromatic filament. followed by 6 images the first placeholder is done
Potentiometer
My last test case for the POP 3 was a linear slide potentiometer that I had lying around. I thought this would be a great way to evaluate the POP 3’s abilities to capture more complex models.
While this scan is noticeably worse than some of the other items, it’s worth noting that I didn’t spend too much time trying to fix the point cloud. But with a bit more effort, you can drastically improve the scan quality by manually fixing areas that the scanner failed to capture.
Final Thoughts on the POP 3 Scanner
All in all, the Revopoint POP 3 is a beast of a 3D scanner. The hardware on the POP 3 is up to standard, if not far superior, to other budget-friendly 3D scanners these days.
You can really tell a lot of effort went into making this scanner as every feature on the device – from the simplified controls to the bright LEDs – is perfected.
But you don’t have to believe the endless list of specs notes on the product page. Through rigorous testing, the POP 3 has proven itself more than capable of consistently producing high-quality 3D model scans of everything from small electronics to detailed historic busts.
Just try to avoid scanning objects that are glossy or transparent, as the scanner’s performance with these surfaces is a little rusty.
But what really makes the POP 3 shine is its corresponding Revo Scan software. While the POP 3 would likely still be a top-tier scanner with low-quality software, Revopoint went above and beyond to give users a versatile, capable, and extremely easy-to-use platform to scan objects. It truly makes the scanning process seamless, literally!
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