How to choose a CMM or vision measuring system
By Grant, Inspection Tool Specialists. Reviewed November 2026.
Three things decide which coordinate measuring machine (CMM) or vision measuring system you need: the size and features of the parts, the accuracy and repeatability your drawings require, and how many parts you measure. Answer those first, because a machine that cannot reach the features or hold the accuracy is the wrong machine however well it is equipped.
Sensors: optical, touch or both?
Optical vision systems measure 2D and 2.5D features without touching the part, which suits delicate, soft or small parts and profiles. Touch probes measure 3D geometry by contact. Multi-sensor systems combine optical and touch measurement, and some add laser sensing for surfaces. Choose the sensor for the features you must measure, not the other way round.
Manual, semi-automatic or CNC?
| Type | Suits | Typical in our range |
|---|---|---|
| Compact manual | Small parts, occasional checks | M2 Series compact manual |
| Manual optical and 3D | Workshop and inspection rooms, operator-led measurement | M3 Series |
| Semi-automatic optical and 3D | Repeat measurement of similar parts | M4 Series |
| CNC multi-sensor | Production and first-article inspection with programmes | V3 Series; A6 AutoMea bridge machine |
| CNC coordinate measuring machine | Large parts and high-accuracy 3D measurement | T2-CMM 564 |
Size, travel and environment
The part must fit within the machine's measuring travel with room to spare. Larger machines need more floor space, power and a stable environment. Temperature changes affect measurement, so the room should be controlled, and the machine should sit on a stable base away from vibration.
Software and reporting
Measurement programmes and reports are part of the purchase. Ask how a part is programmed, how results are exported and how the report is produced, and ask for a demonstration on one of your own parts before you buy.
Support
We supply and support the measuring systems we sell. On-site CMM servicing for other makes is outside what we offer, and we say so when a tender asks for it. Tell us the make and model you already have, and we will say what we can do.
Price guide
As a guide to our current range, including VAT: compact manual vision measuring machines from about R76,700; manual optical and 3D machines from about R84,700; semi-automatic machines from about R100,000; CNC multi-sensor machines from about R175,600; bridge CNC systems from about R476,700; the T2-CMM 564 coordinate machine is about R1,435,000. Prices change, so check the product pages and confirm the sensors and software each quote includes.
Questions we will ask you
Tell us the part size and weight, the features and tolerances to measure, the accuracy and repeatability your drawings require, whether you need 2D, 3D or both, manual or programmed operation, the inspection volume, the room and power available, and the reports you must produce. With that we can recommend a system and provide pricing.