Leica BLK360 vs NavVis MLX: Choosing the Right Scanner for Your Project

Two Philosophies of Scanning

The Leica BLK360 and NavVis MLX are both world-class scanning instruments, but they are designed for different use cases. Understanding the distinction helps explain why professional scanning firms deploy both.

The Leica BLK360: Precision in Stillness

The BLK360 is a static scanner — it is placed on a tripod, scans a complete 360° sphere of its environment, then is moved to the next position. Its key characteristics:

Strengths:

• Exceptional accuracy (±4mm at 10m range)
• High-resolution colour imagery integrated into the point cloud
• Compact and lightweight — fits in a carry-on bag
• Simple operation — a single button press initiates a scan
• Ideal for spaces where maximum accuracy is required

Limitations:

• Each scan position takes 2–5 minutes
• Large spaces require many scan positions
• Not suited to spaces with moving people or objects
• Requires a clear line of sight to all surfaces

Best deployed for: Offices, schools, heritage buildings, spaces requiring maximum accuracy, projects where the building can be cleared of occupants.

The NavVis MLX: Speed in Motion

The NavVis MLX is a mobile mapping system — it is carried through the space while scanning continuously, capturing data as the operator walks. Its key characteristics:

Strengths:

• Dramatically faster data capture — a 10,000 m² building can be scanned in hours
• Captures data while people are present (suitable for occupied buildings)
• Ideal for large, complex multi-floor buildings
• Produces rich, navigable panoramic imagery alongside the point cloud
• Excellent for corridor-heavy buildings (hospitals, schools, offices)

Limitations:

• Slightly lower accuracy than static scanning (±10mm typical)
• Larger and heavier than the BLK360
• Requires more processing time post-capture

Best deployed for: Large buildings, occupied spaces, multi-floor surveys, projects where speed is prioritised over maximum accuracy.

The NavVis IVION Handheld: Flexibility for Tight Spaces

For spaces where neither the BLK360 nor the MLX is ideal — tight plant rooms, roof voids, or areas with complex geometry — the NavVis IVION handheld scanner provides a flexible alternative. Lighter and more manoeuvrable than the MLX, it trades some accuracy for accessibility.

Which Scanner Will Be Used on Your Project?

Regent Solutions selects the appropriate instrument based on:

1. Building size — larger buildings favour the MLX for efficiency

2. Required accuracy — maximum precision projects use the BLK360

3. Occupancy — occupied buildings are better suited to the MLX

4. Space complexity — tight or irregular spaces may require the handheld

5. Deliverable type — walkthrough presentations benefit from the MLX's panoramic imagery

In many cases, a combination of instruments is used — the MLX for rapid capture of large areas, with the BLK360 deployed for specific areas requiring maximum accuracy.

The choice of scanner is always made in the interest of delivering the best possible result for your project, not the most convenient option for the operator.