NavVis VLX3 vs MLX: Wearable vs Cart System
An expert comparison to help you choose the right equipment for your project.
| Feature | NavVis VLX3 | NavVis MLX |
|---|---|---|
| Range | Up to 50m | Up to 50m |
| Accuracy | 5mm local (500 m² test environment) | 5mm local (500 m² test environment) |
| Scan Rate | 1.28M pts/sec (2 × 640,000, datasheet v2409) | 640,000 pts/sec |
| Cameras | 4 × 20 MP panoramic | 4 × 12 MP panoramic + 2 × 2 MP visual odometry |
| Form Factor | Wearable | Handheld with harness |
| LiDAR | 2 × 32-layer, 905 nm | 32-layer, 905 nm |
| Battery | 1.5 h per set of 2 (hot-swappable) | 45 min (not swappable during a scan) |
| Weight | 8.5 kg | 3.6 kg (incl. battery) |
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
NavVis VLX3
Wearable Mobile Mapping
The NavVis VLX3 is a wearable system enabling walk-through capture of any accessible space including stairs, ramps, and tight areas.
Pros
- Dual 32-layer LiDAR
- Higher-resolution 20 MP panoramas
- Hot-swappable batteries
- Longer runtime per battery set
Cons
- Heavier to wear (8.5 kg vs 3.6 kg)
- Bulkier in tight spaces
- Training required
Best For
NavVis MLX
Lightweight Handheld Mapper
The NavVis MLX is a 3.6 kg handheld system worn on a harness, offering the same 5mm published local accuracy as the VLX3 in a much lighter package. Ideal for long walks and confined spaces.
Pros
- Same 5mm published local accuracy as the VLX3
- Less than half the weight (3.6 kg)
- Visual odometry augments LiDAR SLAM
- Fits confined spaces
- Carry-on backpack
Cons
- Single 32-layer LiDAR — half the VLX3's point rate
- 12 MP rather than 20 MP panoramic cameras
- 45-minute battery that cannot be swapped mid-scan
- 256 GB external storage instead of 1 TB SSD
Best For
Our Expert Verdict
Both are wearable NavVis systems with the same 50m range, the same 5mm published local accuracy and the same IP42 rating. The VLX3 carries dual 32-layer LiDAR, 20 MP cameras, hot-swappable batteries and a 1 TB SSD at 8.5 kg. The MLX carries a single 32-layer LiDAR, 12 MP cameras and a 45-minute battery at 3.6 kg. Point density and endurance versus carried weight is the real trade-off.
Choose NavVis VLX3 if...
Choose VLX3 when you need the densest point cloud, the higher-resolution panoramas, or long shifts with hot-swappable batteries.
Choose NavVis MLX if...
Choose MLX when carried weight, confined access, or long walking routes matter more than point density.
Download the Spec Sheets
Original manufacturer documents, free with no email required — verified against each manufacturer's live copy.
Browse the full library: Equipment Spec Sheets & Downloads →
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the NavVis MLX a cart system?
No. NavVis publishes the MLX as a handheld device with a harness, weighing 3.6 kg including its battery, supplied with a carry-on backpack. Both the MLX and the VLX3 are walk-through systems and both handle stairs and level changes.
Which captures more data?
The VLX3. NavVis's v2409 datasheet publishes 2 × 640,000 points per second for the VLX3 against 640,000 for the MLX, and 4 × 20 MP panoramic cameras against the MLX's 4 × 12 MP. Published accuracy is 5mm local for both.
Do I need both?
Large operations often carry both — the VLX3 for dense capture of main areas, the MLX where weight and access matter.
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.
Similar Equipment You Might Compare
Professional Services Using This Equipment
The Future 3D delivers these professional services with its own equipment fleet — each service page names the instruments we deploy.
3D Virtual Tours
Immersive Matterport virtual tours for properties and spaces
3D Laser Scanning
Millimeter-accurate point cloud capture with Trimble and NavVis
Scan-to-BIM
BIM-conversion-ready 3D laser scan data in E57, RCP, LAS, and OBJ
Digital Twins
Living 3D models with real-time IoT integration
As-Built Documentation
Registered point clouds, 360° panoramas, and PDF reports from 3D scanning
Google Street View
Google Trusted Photographer services for business interiors
Industries That Benefit From This Technology
NavVis VLX3 and NavVis MLX technology drives innovation across these key industries.
Schools & Education
Virtual campus tours, facility documentation, and safety planning
Real Estate
Immersive property tours and marketing assets
Retail
Store planning and virtual store tours
Hospitality
Hotel virtual tours and event space showcases
Insurance
Property documentation and claims support
Property Management
Portfolio documentation and move-in/out inspections
Available Nationwide
The Future 3D provides professional 3D scanning services across the United States.
Florida (Headquarters)
Northeast
West Coast
South & Midwest
Need Help Choosing?
Our experts can recommend the right equipment for your specific project requirements.