As digital dentistry continues its rapid evolution, intraoral scanners have become one of the most transformative tools in the modern dental workflow.
From streamlining chairside workflows to powering aligner and implant production, today’s scanners are smarter, faster, and more accessible than ever before.
In 2026, we’re seeing a wave of innovation from both established leaders and fast-rising challengers. This guide highlights the four intraoral scanners generating the most buzz this year—whether you’re seeking wireless flexibility, AI-driven precision, or seamless integration into lab and printing workflows. Let’s take a look at the best options for practices looking to upgrade their scanning capabilities in 2026.
The Medit i900 was a push into premium territory for Medit, offering high resolution, fast scans, and excellent software ecosystem.
According to reviews: “The i900 continues … excellent scanning capabilities … speed and depth of field improved.”
Strengths: Premium performance, strong support/training infrastructure, open architecture
Considerations: Premium cost; wired models in some configurations (though some wireless variants are emerging).
Best for: Practices wanting a strong all‑round scanner with versatility and future‑proofing.
The 3Shape TRIOS 5 remains a market‑leading scanner from a well‑established brand. Features include wireless options, proven reliability, and broad software ecosystem. Reviews note capture speeds up to ~2400 images/sec and strong integration.
Strengths: Brand prestige, mature software ecosystem, strong lab‑and‑practice connectivity
Considerations: Highest cost among peers; weight/ergonomics may be less favorable than newer ultra‑light models.
Best for: Practices with broad restorative + ortho workflows that value a top‑tier brand and full software support.
Alliedstar Sensa: Here’s what stands out: a fully wireless architecture, 3 hours of continuous scanning on a full charge, and a fast‑charge feature that gives a full‑case scan readiness in as little as 3 minutes. The Sensa also introduces AI‑powered live scan guidance and a 10‑meter wireless range for flexible operatory placement.
Alliedstar AS 200E: Positioned as a value wireless scanner option, the AS 200E offers full‑arch scans in ~20 seconds and weighs just ~245 g (including battery). It exports open STL/PLY formats and requires no ongoing subscription fees.
Strengths: Fast full‑arch scans, wireless freedom, affordable price points (especially AS 200E)
Considerations: Alliedstar software ecosystem is still growing compared to some premium brands.
Best for: Practices seeking high value scanning, wireless flexibility, and solid performance without the highest premium price.
This scanner is engineered for both everyday intraoral scanning and advanced implant/edentulous workflows via intraoral photogrammetry (IPG). The Aoralscan Elite weighs only 124 g (without cable), making it one of the lightest in the category.
Key features:
Able to output STL, OBJ, PLY formats.
Multiple tip sizes (big tip 19×14 mm, standard 16×12 mm, mini 12×9 mm) support detailed capture.
Strengths: Excellent for full‑arch implants, edentulous cases, and high accuracy workflows
Considerations: Higher investment; scanning hardware and PC hardware requirements lean premium.
Best for: Practices doing advanced prosthetic/implant workflows and needing a scanner with photogrammetry built‑in.
The iTero Lumina is the latest generation from Align Technology, offering a wider field of view, faster scanning, and enhanced photorealistic visualization. Designed for optimal intraoral comfort, it integrates with Invisalign and Exocad workflows. Clinicians appreciate its reduced scan time and improved accuracy for orthodontic and restorative applications.
Strengths: Practices already working with or planning to use Invisalign or other aligner systems (thanks to native integration). Also, iTero leads the pack with dedicated training and support teams to get you and your staff operational.
Considerations: As with many premium systems, cost may be higher than entry‑level scanners.
When you’re selecting an intraoral scanner for 2026, here are criteria to guide your decision:
Workload & Case Mix: If you heavily scan full‑arches, implant cases or aligner workflows, choose scanners with larger tips, high accuracy (e.g., Aoralscan Elite) or flexible tip options (Sensa).
Ergonomics & Staff Usage: Lightweight models reduce operator fatigue—important if assistants scan often (Alliedstar Sensa, Aoralscan Elite excel here).
Software & Workflow Integration: Ensure the scanner exports open formats (STL/OBJ/PLY) if you work with multiple labs or CAD/CAM systems.
Budget & ROI: Entry‑tier scanners cost less but may limit high‑end workflows. Balance investment with your practice’s direction.
Training & Support: Top performance depends on onboarding. Choose brands or suppliers offering strong training, workflow consultation.
Future‑Proofing: Look for features like wireless freedom, photogrammetry, AI scanning guidance that prepare you for evolving workflows.
For 2026, these four scanners represent distinct tiers and specialty uses:
Cost‑effective scanning: Alliedstar AS 200E
Wireless premium scanning: Alliedstar Sensa
Advanced implant/full‑arch workflows: Shining 3D Aoralscan Elite
Premium brand/trusted workflow ecosystem: Medit i900 and 3Shape TRIOS 5
Choosing the right scanner now can set the foundation for your practice’s digital workflow—helping improve efficiency, patient experience, and long‑term return on investment.