3D Scanner Comparison

NavVis VLX2 vs VLX3 vs MLX: Indoor Mapping Scanner Comparison

An expert comparison to help you choose the right equipment for your project.

Feature	NavVis VLX2	NavVis VLX3	NavVis MLX
Range	Up to 50m	Up to 50m	Up to 50m
Accuracy	6mm local (500 m² test env.)	5mm local (500 m² test env.)	5mm local (500 m² test env.)
Coverage	Continuous walk-through	Continuous walk-through	Continuous walk-through
Weight	8.7 kg	8.5 kg	3.6 kg (incl. battery)
Cameras	4 × 20 MP	4x 20MP	-

Pricing shown reflects average US rates — indicative ranges, not a quote. Actual costs vary by location based on local market conditions, regulations, and project logistics — both within the US and internationally. Get a custom quote

Option A NavVis

NavVis VLX2

Previous Generation

The VLX2 was NavVis's breakthrough wearable scanner, still capable for many projects.

Pros

Proven technology
Lower cost
Same 4 × 20 MP cameras as the VLX3
Established workflow

Cons

16-layer rather than 32-layer LiDAR
Slightly heavier (8.7 kg vs 8.5 kg)
Roughly half the point rate

Best For

Budget projectsLarge simple spacesExisting VLX users

Option B NavVis

NavVis VLX3

Current Flagship

The VLX3 is NavVis's latest wearable indoor mapping system with improved accuracy.

Pros

Latest technology
Tightest published accuracy (5mm vs 6mm)
Dual 32-layer LiDAR
Roughly double the point rate of the VLX2

Cons

Premium price
Still 8.5 kg worn
Learning curve

Best For

Professional indoor mappingDigital twin projectsFacility management

Option C NavVis

NavVis MLX

Lightweight Handheld Mapper

The MLX is a 3.6 kg handheld system worn on a harness — the same 5mm published local accuracy as the VLX3 at less than half the carried weight.

Pros

Only 3.6 kg carried
Same 5mm published local accuracy as the VLX3
Visual odometry augments LiDAR SLAM
Carry-on backpack

Cons

Single 32-layer LiDAR — half the VLX3 point rate
12 MP rather than 20 MP panoramic cameras
45-minute battery, not swappable mid-scan

Best For

WarehousesFactoriesLong walking routesConfined and cluttered spaces

Our Expert Verdict

Depends on Your Needs

VLX2 for budget, VLX3 for the densest point cloud, MLX when carried weight matters most. All three share a 50m range, IP42 rating and NavVis IVION processing.

Choose NavVis VLX2 if...

Choose VLX2 for budget-conscious large-area indoor mapping.

Choose NavVis VLX3 if...

Choose VLX3 for the best wearable indoor mapping technology.

Choose NavVis MLX if...

Choose MLX when long walking routes or confined access make 3.6 kg worth more than point density.

Download the Spec Sheets

Original manufacturer documents, free with no email required — verified against each manufacturer's live copy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I upgrade from VLX2 to VLX3?

Yes if you need the tighter 5mm published local accuracy and roughly double the point rate from dual 32-layer LiDAR. The camera array is identical, and NavVis still lists the VLX2 in its current LX-Series.

Equipment Used

Professional Equipment In This Comparison

The professional equipment in this comparison, compared spec by spec. Specifications shown are the manufacturers' published figures. Models THE FUTURE 3D operates are identified on their own pages.

NavVis

Flagship

NavVis