Compact, wireless, and laser-accurate — Shining 3D brings professional-grade scanning to the consumer market.
From Structured Light to Blue Laser Precision
The original Einstar made waves as one of the most accessible consumer 3D scanners from a professional manufacturer. Built on Shining 3D’s metrology expertise, it offered simple software and reliable performance at a fraction of the cost of industrial-grade systems. Now, Shining 3D has advanced the line with two successors — the Einstar 2 and the Einstar Rockit — both built around a blue laser and infrared scanning system for more flexibility, precision, and ease of use.
Design and Portability
Both the Einstar 2 and Rockit arrive in durable light-gray carrying cases, complete with cables, dual swappable batteries, and calibration tools. The scanners themselves are smaller and lighter than the original Einstar, weighing around 420 grams with the battery installed. Despite the compact form, each includes Shining 3D’s familiar three-button interface — play/pause, plus, and minus — along with a split status light ring that visually guides scan distance and power level.
The recessed USB-C port adds a professional touch, protecting the cable connection from movement or accidental signal loss — a simple yet critical design upgrade for tethered workflows.
Blue Laser Scanning Performance
Shining 3D’s switch from structured light to blue laser scanning is a major leap forward. Blue laser technology delivers improved accuracy and surface coverage, even in challenging environments. Unlike structured light systems, blue lasers can effectively scan in daylight, on dark materials, or over reflective surfaces — often without needing a scanning spray. Both scanners achieve up to 0.05 mm resolution and feature a large pickup window of 490 × 580 mm, capable of capturing intricate details or full-size vehicles.
Einstar 2 vs Einstar Rockit: Key Differences
- Scanning Technology: Both use blue laser and infrared systems with RGB color capture.
- Resolution: Up to 0.05 mm for both models.
- Speed: Einstar 2 scans at 2.5 million points/sec, while Rockit reaches 2.8 million points/sec.
- Marker-Free Scanning: The Einstar Rockit allows marker-free scanning in nearly every mode — a standout feature that significantly reduces setup time and post-scan cleanup. The Einstar 2, by contrast, still requires tracking markers for blue laser scans.
- Laser Configuration: Einstar 2 uses 17 parallel lasers, while Rockit employs a 19×19 cross pattern plus 7 parallel lines for complex geometries.
- Price: Einstar 2 — $1,199; Einstar Rockit — $1,799.
For most users, the Rockit’s marker-free functionality is the defining upgrade. Whether scanning small objects or full vehicles, skipping the step of placing and removing dozens of markers saves hours on each project.
Scanning Range and Use Cases
Both scanners handle objects from about 5 mm up to 10 meters in size — meaning you can capture a keychain or an entire car. With this level of versatility, the Einstar series sits comfortably between entry-level consumer scanners and professional industrial systems, delivering professional-grade accuracy without the steep learning curve or price tag.
Professional Expertise, Consumer Accessibility
What sets Shining 3D apart is its heritage. As a manufacturer of industrial metrology scanners like the FreeScan Combo+ and EinScan Rigil, the company brings professional-grade algorithms, calibration systems, and hardware reliability into these more affordable models. It’s the same philosophy as Michelin applying racing tire technology to its everyday Pilot Sport line — expert engineering trickling down to accessible products.
Choosing the Right Model
If you prioritize speed, convenience, and marker-free scanning, the Einstar Rockit is the clear choice. For users focused on affordability while still benefiting from Shining 3D’s blue laser system, the Einstar 2 offers tremendous value. Both provide a professional experience that far outclasses typical consumer-grade alternatives.
When to Step Up
For those who outgrow these scanners — perhaps needing on-device displays, higher data throughput, or metrology-level accuracy — Shining 3D’s lineup scales upward. The EinScan Rigel at around $5,000 adds wireless operation with an integrated screen, while the FreeScan Combo+ targets industrial applications with lightning-fast data acquisition and precision metrology tools.
Final Thoughts
The Einstar 2 and Einstar Rockit embody the future of consumer-accessible 3D scanning — wireless, portable, and powered by blue laser precision. For creators, engineers, or hobbyists ready to step beyond structured light scanners, these new models from Shining 3D offer an exceptional blend of accuracy, ease of use, and value.
Both scanners are available now at VisionMiner.com. For questions about 3D scanning or to compare these units with professional models, contact contact@visionminer.com.