Accuracy and resolution answer different questions
Accuracy describes how close a measurement is to the real value under defined conditions. Resolution or point distance describes how closely sampled surface points can be. Dense data can still be dimensionally wrong; accurate data can be sampled too coarsely for a tiny feature.
Single-frame versus volumetric accuracy
A single-frame result is measured inside one capture. A long scan accumulates alignment and calibration effects, so professional systems often state volumetric accuracy as a base error plus an additional error per meter.
Why real objects perform differently
Dark absorption, specular reflection, transparency, movement, temperature, calibration and operator path all change results.
- Verify the optical mode used for the claim
- Check the object size and working distance
- Use a traceable reference dimension
- Repeat scans to assess consistency
What to compare before buying
Read the accuracy figure together with point distance, minimum scan volume, field of view, tracking modes, calibration method and software tools. A scanner that reliably completes your object is more useful than one with a smaller isolated number.
Sources and further reading
Where this guide starts
This article is an original Best3DScanner synthesis. The references below support the technical background; manufacturers do not control our conclusions.