If you’re unfamiliar with the 3D scanning market, $5,900 might sound expensive for a handheld device. However, when you consider that other competing 3D scanners can cost anywhere from $10,000 to $20,000, the Peel 1 3D scanner suddenly becomes a bargain for entry-level professionals on a budget.

Despite the low price, the Peel 1 3D scanner still offers some fascinating features that are absent from other devices in the same price range, such as the ability to accurately scan flat or shiny surfaces. The system utilizes stick-on targets to properly capture flat and smooth surfaces. For typical 3D scanning applications, the process is as easy as pointing the scanner at an object and shooting – little to no preparation necessary.

Using an LED system to generate the structured light, the Peel 1 3D scanner is safer to use than other laser-based systems. When employing the stick-on guides, the Peel 1 is able to reach a scanning accuracy of 0.250mm and volumetric accuracy of 0.500mm volumetric accuracy. Although the base resolution is a mere 0.500mm, which is lackluster compared to other models, it’s a sacrifice that must be made for the sake of cost-effectiveness.

The scanning volume of the Peel 1 is around a 3m cube, making it more than capable of capturing a wide variety of objects both large and small. For objects that exceed that limit, you can also conduct multiple scans and paste them together after the fact.

Aside from the quirky banana-like yellow and white color scheme of the 3D scanner, the overall design presents an impressive balance of simplicity and efficiency. With a unique shape an 850g weight, the Peel 1 3D scanner fits comfortably into the user’s hand. To operate the Peel 1 3D scanner, you’ll need to connect it to a laptop or desktop computer via USB.

As we mentioned in the introduction, this 3D scanner is powered by technology from the Quebec-based company Creaform, a well-respected entity in the 3D scanning industry. So, even though Peel 3D isn’t exactly a household name, the technology inside of this scanner comes from a trusted source.

In a demonstration video (shared below) that was released alongside the 3D scanner in 2017, the Peel 3D team attempted to scan a reflective racing seat to prove that their scanner could capture shiny objects. While most 3D scanners struggle with such objects, the Peel 1 3D scanner looked surprisingly adept at scanning the seat.

While we haven’t tested the Peel 1 3D scanner ourselves, we remain impressed by the initial results that the manufacturer was able to achieve. However, like other 3D scanning systems, this low-cost device does struggle with a few attributes. But the company shares a few tips and tricks to optimize the scanning process for these difficult-to-capture features.

For objects that are translucent, deep black, or have a mirrored finish, users can apply some spray powder to help make the surfaces more compatible with the scanner. Still, like other scanners, the Peel 1 falls short when it comes to capturing highly intricate objects, as well as hair and fur.

The Peel 3D software that comes with the 3D scanner offers a range of useful tools that simplify the 3D scanning process and enhance the results. For starters, the software has a start and stop system that allows users to pause the 3D scanning process and change settings, or even take a break when scanning a large object.

You can also use the software to correct or delete distorted frames, automatically clean the 3D mesh, and fill any holes to ensure that the 3D model is watertight. After processing is finished, the Peel 3D software allows you to instantly export the 3D model in a wide range of file formats, including STL, OBJ, PLY, WRL, DAE, FBX, X3D, MA, and ZPR.

All of these features sound terrific considering the sub-$6,000 price tag, but is it worth buying the Peel 1 3D scanner over other options? From what we’ve gathered, the Peel 1 is ideal for entry-level professionals who want a quality 3D scanner at a low price.

For applications like reverse engineering and design, science and education, art, heritage preservation, and human body scanning, the Peel 1 3D scanner should do the trick just fine. But, if you have a budget that allows you to dip into more expensive 3D scanning systems in the $10,000 to $20,000 range, you will be able to find devices that offer a better all-around experience, from scanning quality to speed.