
Vision Measuring Machines (VMMs) are available in a wide range of sizes, automation levels and measurement technologies. Selecting the right system depends on your part size, measurement requirements, inspection volume and level of automation required.
Use the quick selection guide below to identify the most suitable series for your application, then compare individual models using the comparison table.
Quick Selection Guide
| If you need to... |
Recommended Series |
| Measure small precision parts occasionally |
M2 Series |
| Perform daily quality inspections |
M3 Series |
| Increase inspection speed and repeatability |
M4 Series |
| Automate production inspection routines |
V3 Series |
| Measure large components or assemblies |
A6 Bridge CNC Series |
| Measure heights and depths |
B or D Configuration |
| Measure surface profiles and delicate surfaces |
C or D Configuration |
| Perform complete dimensional analysis |
D Configuration |
| Create automated inspection programs |
V3 or A6 Series |
| Measure large aerospace, tooling or fabricated components |
A6 Series |
Vision Measuring Machine Comparison Table
Compare all Vision Measuring Machine models by measuring capacity, measurement technology, automation level and intended application.
For an explanation of each specification, measurement configuration and automation level, please refer to the guide below the comparison table.
| Series |
Variant |
X Travel |
Y Travel |
Z Travel |
Config |
Automation |
Best For |
| M2 |
M2-1510 |
150 |
100 |
100 |
2D |
Manual |
Small precision parts |
| M2 |
M2-2010 |
200 |
100 |
100 |
2D |
Manual |
Small precision parts |
| M3 |
M3-2515 |
250 |
150 |
200 |
2D |
Manual |
Manufacturing QC |
| M3 |
M3-3020 |
300 |
200 |
200 |
2D |
Manual |
Manufacturing QC |
| M3 |
M3-4030 |
400 |
300 |
200 |
2D |
Manual |
Manufacturing QC |
| M3 |
VMS-5040 |
500 |
400 |
200 |
2D |
Manual |
Manufacturing QC |
| M3 |
M3-2515A |
250 |
150 |
200 |
A |
Manual |
Enhanced optical inspection |
| M3 |
M3-3020A |
300 |
200 |
200 |
A |
Manual |
Enhanced optical inspection |
| M3 |
M3-4030A |
400 |
300 |
200 |
A |
Manual |
Enhanced optical inspection |
| M3 |
VMS-5040A |
500 |
400 |
200 |
A |
Manual |
Enhanced optical inspection |
| M3 |
M3-2515B |
250 |
150 |
200 |
B |
Manual |
Height & depth measurement |
| M3 |
M3-3020B |
300 |
200 |
200 |
B |
Manual |
Height & depth measurement |
| M3 |
M3-4030B |
400 |
300 |
200 |
B |
Manual |
Height & depth measurement |
| M3 |
VMS-5040B |
500 |
400 |
200 |
B |
Manual |
Height & depth measurement |
| M4 |
M3-2515C |
250 |
150 |
200 |
C |
Semi-Automatic |
Faster inspection |
| M4 |
M3-3020C |
300 |
200 |
200 |
C |
Semi-Automatic |
Faster inspection |
| M4 |
M3-4030C |
400 |
300 |
200 |
C |
Semi-Automatic |
Faster inspection |
| M4 |
VMS-5040C |
500 |
400 |
200 |
C |
Semi-Automatic |
Faster inspection |
| M4 |
M3-2515D |
250 |
150 |
200 |
D |
Semi-Automatic |
Advanced QC |
| M4 |
M3-3020D |
300 |
200 |
200 |
D |
Semi-Automatic |
Advanced QC |
| M4 |
M3-4030D |
400 |
300 |
200 |
D |
Semi-Automatic |
Advanced QC |
| M4 |
VMS-5040D |
500 |
400 |
200 |
D |
Semi-Automatic |
Advanced QC |
| VMD |
VMD-1510 |
150 |
100 |
- |
2D |
Manual |
Video measuring projector |
| VMD |
VMD-2010 |
200 |
100 |
- |
2D |
Manual |
Video measuring projector |
| VMD |
VMD-2515 |
250 |
150 |
- |
2D |
Manual |
Video measuring projector |
| VMD |
VMD-3020 |
300 |
200 |
- |
2D |
Manual |
Video measuring projector |
| V3 |
V3-VAS-322A |
300 |
200 |
200 |
A |
Fully CNC |
Automated inspection |
| V3 |
V3-VAS-322B |
300 |
200 |
200 |
B |
Fully CNC |
Automated inspection |
| V3 |
V3-VAS-322C |
300 |
200 |
200 |
C |
Fully CNC |
Automated inspection |
| V3 |
V3-VAS-322D |
300 |
200 |
200 |
D |
Fully CNC |
Automated inspection |
| V3 |
V3-VAS-432A |
400 |
300 |
200 |
A |
Fully CNC |
Automated inspection |
| V3 |
V3-VAS-432B |
400 |
300 |
200 |
B |
Fully CNC |
Automated inspection |
| V3 |
V3-VAS-432C |
400 |
300 |
200 |
C |
Fully CNC |
Automated inspection |
| V3 |
V3-VAS-432D |
400 |
300 |
200 |
D |
Fully CNC |
Automated inspection |
| V3 |
V3-VAS-542A |
500 |
400 |
200 |
A |
Fully CNC |
Automated inspection |
| V3 |
V3-VAS-542B |
500 |
400 |
200 |
B |
Fully CNC |
Automated inspection |
| V3 |
V3-VAS-542C |
500 |
400 |
200 |
C |
Fully CNC |
Automated inspection |
| V3 |
V3-VAS-542D |
500 |
400 |
200 |
D |
Fully CNC |
Automated inspection |
| V3 |
V3-VAS-652A |
600 |
500 |
200 |
A |
Fully CNC |
Automated inspection |
| V3 |
V3-VAS-652B |
600 |
500 |
200 |
B |
Fully CNC |
Automated inspection |
| V3 |
V3-VAS-652C |
600 |
500 |
200 |
C |
Fully CNC |
Automated inspection |
| V3 |
V3-VAS-652D |
600 |
500 |
200 |
D |
Fully CNC |
Automated inspection |
| A6 |
A6-AutoMea432A |
300 |
400 |
200 |
A |
Bridge CNC |
Large-part inspection |
| A6 |
A6-AutoMea432B |
300 |
400 |
200 |
B |
Bridge CNC |
Large-part inspection |
| A6 |
A6-AutoMea432C |
300 |
400 |
200 |
C |
Bridge CNC |
Large-part inspection |
| A6 |
A6-AutoMea432D |
300 |
400 |
200 |
D |
Bridge CNC |
Large-part inspection |
| A6 |
A6-AutoMea542A |
400 |
500 |
200 |
A |
Bridge CNC |
Large-part inspection |
| A6 |
A6-AutoMea542B |
400 |
500 |
200 |
B |
Bridge CNC |
Large-part inspection |
| A6 |
A6-AutoMea542C |
400 |
500 |
200 |
C |
Bridge CNC |
Large-part inspection |
| A6 |
A6-AutoMea542D |
400 |
500 |
200 |
D |
Bridge CNC |
Large-part inspection |
| A6 |
A6-AutoMea652A |
500 |
600 |
200 |
A |
Bridge CNC |
Large-part inspection |
| A6 |
A6-AutoMea652B |
500 |
600 |
200 |
B |
Bridge CNC |
Large-part inspection |
| A6 |
A6-AutoMea652C |
500 |
600 |
200 |
C |
Bridge CNC |
Large-part inspection |
| A6 |
A6-AutoMea652D |
500 |
600 |
200 |
D |
Bridge CNC |
Large-part inspection |
| A6 |
A6-AutoMea862A |
600 |
800 |
200 |
A |
Bridge CNC |
Large-part inspection |
| A6 |
A6-AutoMea862B |
600 |
800 |
200 |
B |
Bridge CNC |
Large-part inspection |
| A6 |
A6-AutoMea862C |
600 |
800 |
200 |
C |
Bridge CNC |
Large-part inspection |
| A6 |
A6-AutoMea862D |
600 |
800 |
200 |
D |
Bridge CNC |
Large-part inspection |
| A6 |
A6-AutoMea1082A |
800 |
1000 |
200 |
A |
Bridge CNC |
Large-part inspection |
| A6 |
A6-AutoMea1082B |
800 |
1000 |
200 |
B |
Bridge CNC |
Large-part inspection |
| A6 |
A6-AutoMea1082C |
800 |
1000 |
200 |
C |
Bridge CNC |
Large-part inspection |
| A6 |
A6-AutoMea1082D |
800 |
1000 |
200 |
D |
Bridge CNC |
Large-part inspection |
| A6 |
A6-AutoMea12102A |
1000 |
1200 |
200 |
A |
Bridge CNC |
Large-part inspection |
| A6 |
A6-AutoMea12102B |
1000 |
1200 |
200 |
B |
Bridge CNC |
Large-part inspection |
| A6 |
A6-AutoMea12102C |
1000 |
1200 |
200 |
C |
Bridge CNC |
Large-part inspection |
| A6 |
A6-AutoMea12102D |
1000 |
1200 |
200 |
D |
Bridge CNC |
Large-part inspection |
| A6 |
A6-AutoMea15122A |
1200 |
1500 |
200 |
A |
Bridge CNC |
Large-part inspection |
| A6 |
A6-AutoMea15122B |
1200 |
1500 |
200 |
B |
Bridge CNC |
Large-part inspection |
| A6 |
A6-AutoMea15122C |
1200 |
1500 |
200 |
C |
Bridge CNC |
Large-part inspection |
| A6 |
A6-AutoMea15122D |
1200 |
1500 |
200 |
D |
Bridge CNC |
Large-part inspection |
| A6 |
A6-AutoMea18122A |
1200 |
1800 |
200 |
A |
Bridge CNC |
Large-part inspection |
| A6 |
A6-AutoMea18122B |
1200 |
1800 |
200 |
B |
Bridge CNC |
Large-part inspection |
| A6 |
A6-AutoMea18122C |
1200 |
1800 |
200 |
C |
Bridge CNC |
Large-part inspection |
| A6 |
A6-AutoMea18122D |
1200 |
1800 |
200 |
D |
Bridge CNC |
Large-part inspection |
Understanding the Comparison Table
| Column |
What It Means |
Why It Matters |
| Series |
The machine family or platform. Examples include M2, M3, M4, V3 and A6. |
Helps identify the machine category, automation level and intended application. |
| Variant |
The exact model number. Each variant combines a machine size with a measurement configuration. |
Used for quotations, pricing, ordering and specification comparison. |
| X Travel |
Maximum measurement movement in the X-axis (left to right) measured in millimetres. |
Determines the maximum part length that can be measured. |
| Y Travel |
Maximum measurement movement in the Y-axis (front to back) measured in millimetres. |
Determines the maximum part width that can be measured. |
| Z Travel |
Maximum vertical measurement movement available. |
Important when measuring taller components, step heights, depths and 3D features. |
| Configuration |
The measurement technology fitted to the machine (2D, A, B, C or D). |
Determines what types of measurements the system can perform. |
| Automation |
How much of the inspection process is automated. |
Impacts speed, repeatability, throughput and operator involvement. |
| Best For |
Typical application or inspection environment. |
Helps identify the most suitable system for your requirements. |
Understanding Measurement Configurations
All Vision Measuring Machines use high-resolution optical vision measurement. Additional technologies such as touch probes and confocal laser sensors can be added depending on the measurement requirements.
Configuration Summary
| Configuration |
Technology |
Additional Measurement Capability |
| 2D |
Standard optical measurement system |
Length, width, diameter, radius, angle and hole position measurements |
| A – Camera + Zoom |
High-resolution camera with programmable zoom lens |
Enhanced optical inspection and improved measurement flexibility |
| B – Camera + Probe (3D) |
Optical vision system combined with a touch probe |
Height, depth, step height and complex 3D geometric measurements |
| C – Camera + Confocal Laser |
Optical vision system combined with a confocal laser sensor |
Non-contact height measurement, surface profile analysis and delicate surface inspection |
| D – Camera + Probe + Confocal Laser |
Multi-sensor platform combining vision, touch probe and confocal laser technologies |
Complete 2D, 3D and surface profile measurement in a single system |
What Can Each Configuration Measure?
| Measurement Capability |
2D |
A |
B |
C |
D |
| Length & Width |
✓ |
✓ |
✓ |
✓ |
✓ |
| Diameter |
✓ |
✓ |
✓ |
✓ |
✓ |
| Radius |
✓ |
✓ |
✓ |
✓ |
✓ |
| Angles |
✓ |
✓ |
✓ |
✓ |
✓ |
| Hole Position |
✓ |
✓ |
✓ |
✓ |
✓ |
| Height Measurement |
✗ |
✗ |
✓ |
✓ |
✓ |
| Depth Measurement |
✗ |
✗ |
✓ |
Limited |
✓ |
| Step Height Measurement |
✗ |
✗ |
✓ |
✓ |
✓ |
| Surface Profile Measurement |
✗ |
✗ |
✗ |
✓ |
✓ |
| Non-Contact Height Measurement |
✗ |
✗ |
✗ |
✓ |
✓ |
| Delicate Surface Measurement |
✗ |
✗ |
✗ |
✓ |
✓ |
| Complex 3D Geometry |
✗ |
✗ |
✓ |
✗ |
✓ |
| Multi-Sensor Measurement |
✗ |
✗ |
✗ |
✗ |
✓ |
Understanding Automation Levels
| Automation Level |
Description |
Typical Use |
| Manual |
Operator positions and measures parts manually. |
General quality control, engineering workshops, toolrooms and first article inspection. |
| Semi-Automatic |
Auto-focus and measurement assistance reduce operator influence while stage movement remains manual. |
Quality departments requiring faster inspection and improved repeatability. |
| Fully CNC |
Fully programmable motion and automated inspection routines. |
Production inspection, repeatable measurement programs and unattended operation. |
| Bridge CNC |
Large-format CNC platform designed for oversized components and assemblies. |
Aerospace structures, moulds, tooling, fabricated assemblies and heavy engineering applications. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need 2D or 3D measurement?
If you only need to measure lengths, diameters, radii, angles and hole positions, a 2D or A-configuration system is usually sufficient. If you need to measure heights, depths, step heights or complex geometries, consider a B or D configuration.
What is a touch probe?
A touch probe is a precision sensor that physically contacts the part to measure features that cannot be accurately measured using optics alone, such as depths, heights and complex 3D geometries.
What is a confocal laser sensor?
A confocal laser sensor measures height and surface profiles without touching the part. It is ideal for delicate, polished, coated or highly reflective surfaces where contact measurement may be unsuitable.
What is the difference between V3 and A6 Series machines?
The V3 Series is designed for small to medium-sized components and automated production inspection. The A6 Series uses a bridge-style CNC structure and is designed for larger parts, moulds, tooling and fabricated assemblies.
How do I choose the correct measuring capacity?
Select a machine with an X and Y measuring range larger than your largest component. It is generally recommended to allow additional capacity for fixture positioning and future inspection requirements.
Which configuration provides the most measurement capability?
D Configuration systems combine optical vision measurement, touch probe measurement and confocal laser measurement in a single platform, providing the broadest range of measurement capabilities.
Can Vision Measuring Machines generate inspection reports?
Yes. Vision Measuring Machines can automatically generate measurement reports, first article inspection reports, SPC data and custom quality documentation depending on the software package used.
Still not sure which system is right for your application?
Contact our technical team with your largest part size, required measurements, inspection volume and automation requirements, and we'll recommend the most suitable Vision Measuring Machine configuration for your application.