As a wellness professional, you're constantly searching for innovative tools to enhance your services and improve client outcomes. 3D body scanning technology offers a compelling solution, providing detailed insights into body composition and personalized progress tracking. But with various systems available, choosing the right one can be overwhelming.

This guide cuts through the noise by evaluating the top 3D body scanning options on the market, ShapeScale and Styku, highlighting how their features translate into real-world value for your business. Whether you run a medical spa, manage a weight loss clinic, have a plastic surgery practice, or work as personal trainer, this breakdown will help you make an informed decision on which solution best fits your business needs.

We will provide a side-by-side comparison of ShapeScale and Styku. Both technologies offer data-driven solutions to visualize and track physical transformation. However, these scanners differ in key features such as hardware, setup, accuracy, features & measurements, scan results, and pricing. They also vary in how effectively they serve different industries such as fitness, medical spas, and weight loss clinics.By the end, you’ll have a comprehensive understand of what both systems offer, empowering you to make an informed decision that aligns with your specific business goals and priorities.

ShapeScale vs Styku: Key 3D Body Scanner Features Compared

Hardware

Styku uses a stationary infrared depth camera with a rotating platform that spins the user during scanning to conduct a full-body scan. While the sensor maintains a fixed position approximately 25 inches from the platform center, the actual distance to the user's body varies significantly as different body regions rotate past the camera—particularly increasing when scanning the upper body. This variable distance can introduce measurement noise and affect scan consistency.

ShapeScale uses a photorealistic texture with 12MP color camera and a sensor head that moves around the stationary user. As the robotic arm extends upward and rotates around the body, it maintains a consistent distance of approximately 24 inches from the user throughout the entire scan, ensuring uniform data quality. With over 10 million 3D data points per scan, ShapeScale creates an immersive visual experience. Both systems complete scans in under one minute, supporting efficient throughput in busy environments.

Installation/Setup

Styku is a two-piece system that requires a spacious setup area (typically 6'x6') and a dedicated Windows PC. The system relies on multiple cables connecting the scanner to the computer, which can create setup complexity and potential cable management issues. The setup process may involve software installation and calibration, potentially adding time and technical complexity before it's operational for the business.

In contrast, ShapeScale is the most compact 3D body scanner on the market that offers an easy setup experience—requiring only a power outlet and WiFi. Its compact 5-foot footprint and foldable design allow for flexible placement, making it particularly attractive to businesses with limited space or mobile service needs.

Accuracy

Styku provides reliable and repeatable measurements with torso circumference accuracy within ±0.2 inches (~0.5%) and 'nearly perfect' test-retest reliability. While Styku suggests body fat estimates fall within 3.3-3.9% of DEXA (Dual-energy X-ray Absorptiometry)—the gold standard for body composition measurement—the accuracy of body fat estimates may vary depending on user pose and other environmental conditions. Its circumference and volume tracking is generally reliable, though results can be affected by posture consistency.

ShapeScale positions itself closer to clinical-grade precision. When compared to DEXA scans, ShapeScale's body fat measurements achieve 97% accuracy (falling within 3%) validated against over 1,200 DEXA reference scans. This means that ShapeScale's results closely match what you would get from medical-grade equipment. Its machine learning approach delivers consistent results regardless of hydration levels or minor pose variations. Because the user remains stationary while only the scanner moves, ShapeScale minimizes movement-related errors that can affect measurement precision. This controlled scanning environment helps maintain reliable accuracy across all body measurements, making it ideal for businesses requiring consistent, professional-grade results.

Interface

Styku’s desktop-based platform is created primarily for administrative data analysis, emphasizing comprehensive measurement tracking, circumferential data and risk assessments. While framework provides substantial value, the interface design philosophy prioritizes technical functionality over user engagement. The interface often requires the operator to explain results, potentially creating a feeling of disconnect from a client and their health journey.

ShapeScale uses a different approach through its mobile-native interface, delivering an interface that bridges body analytical requirements with consumer accessibility. The platforms photorealistic avatar technology transforms complex body data into easy-to-understand visual stories, with built-in walkthroughs of what each part of the app and each body measurement means.  A built-in facial recognition system further streamlines the process, identifying repeat users and assigning scans automatically—saving time, reducing friction, and creating a more personalized, client-centered experience.

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3D Scan Displays & Reports

Scan

Styku generated monochrome, 3D body avatars that prioritize functional data visualization over aesthetic appeal. While these clinical renderings effectively support measurement overlays and regional analysis, they reflect an earlier generation of modeling technology. In an era were consumer expect high-definition, visually compelling digital experiences, these grayscale representations may feel dated and lack the engaging quality necessary for sustained client interaction.

ShapeScale distinguished itself through photorealistic 3D scans that capture both anatomical precision and visual experiences. The full-colors rendering enable clients to observe nuanced body changes that might otherwise go unnoticed. Our heatmap feature provides intuitive visualization of progress over time. This life-like approach transforms routine body scanning into an emotionally resonant experience, fostering deeper client engagement and sustained motivation throughout clients’ health journey.

Report

Data Presentation

Both Styku and ShapeScale offer reports as additional data presentation options. Styku generated reports through its desktop-based software platform, with customizable report sections that can be tailored for different client needs. The system provides detailed circumference charts, body composition breakdowns, and health risk assessments, along with before/after 3D images. Reports can be exported and shared through the desktop software interface, allowing businesses to distribute scan information to clients in various formats.

ShapeScale delivers reports through its mobile app interface, featuring side-by-side photorealistic comparisons and color-coded, hierarchical visuals that highlight demographic fitness status and areas for improvement. Furthermore, the report includes ShapeScale’s in-house scoring metrics, Health Score & Shape Score, for tracking overall body transformation and health progress. The reports feature clean, modern layouts that present scan data through visually engaging 3D models rather than traditional text-heavy formats. The platform enables practitioners to incorporate personalized annotations for individual clients in the notes section. ShapeScale’s app also enables you to generate PDF reports allowing users to create and share reports to clients in one-click.

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Features & Measurements

Styku 3D body scanner extracts several measurements from around the user's body. The system provides full body circumference measurements, volume measurements in cubic cm, and surface area calculations in square cm. From your first Styku scan, users will get information such as a 3D model of your body, weight, body composition analysis (including body fat percentage, lean muscle mass, bone mass, visceral fat, etc.), BMI calculation, BMR, and precise body measurements including circumference and volume measurements of various body parts. A Styku scan can also assess health risks such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and metabolic syndrome, along with waist-to-hip ratio analysis. Upon completing a second scan, users can track changes in body composition over time through side-by-side comparisons, see how circumference/volume has changed, view progress through detailed trend graphs, and compare body fat percentage rankings to others in their age and gender category.

ShapeScale provides similar measurements from across the user’s body. After your first scan, users can get information like weight, body fat percentage, lean mass, BMI, visceral fat, BMR, as well as personalized Shape Scores and Health Scores. Users gain demographic information of their standing across these key metrics compares to others in the same category. Users will also be able to see a 3D photorealistic avatar of their body with precise circumference and volume measurements from head-to toe. After a second scan, users unlock the compare feature which shows exact inch/percentage growth in circumference and volume across different parts of your body. Furthermore, the heatmap feature provides s color-coded visualization of volume increases and decreases throughout the body.

Pricing‍

Styku’s pricing typically involves a higher upfront cost, $9,000–$13,000, along with recurring software subscriptions costing $150-$300 based on usage and/or reporting needs. Additionally, certain features and add-ons may incur extra charges that are not always clearly disclosed upfront, which can affect long-term budgeting for businesses.

ShapeScale offers more flexible options, from as low as $199/month, or a one-time purchase of $9,780. All plans include an unlimited warranty and a 45-day free trial, giving businesses confidence to get started without long-term commitment. All software access and reporting tools are included, making the pricing model both transparent and easy to manage. For many businesses, this flexibility translates into faster returns and lower risk.

ShapeScale vs Styku: Selected your 3D Body Scanner? What now?

Implementing a 3D body scanning system into a business requires evaluating several operational factors that directly impact adoption, client experience, and return on investment. The following step-by-step considerations provide a guide on the business implementation of ShapeScale vs Styku.

Setup Requirements: Businesses should start by assessing the installation footprint, electrical requirements, and needs of the environment. ShapeScale is designed for a compact 5’x 5’ space and only requires a standard power outlet, making it suitable for small studios, medical spas, and wellness centers without needing structural modifications or specialized lighting setups. Styku requires a 6’x 6’ setup area and dedicated Windows PC with multiple cable connections, which require planning for installation and cable management in professional environments.

Ease of Onboarding: Time and resources spent on employee training can delay ROI. ShapeScale offers a instant setup experience with minimal calibration or configuration. ShapeScale gives personalized attention to your onboarding experience, offering on demand and 1-on-1 online trainings. ShapeScale also has an intuitive app-based interface and various materials to make the learning curve as seamless as possible. Styku's system involves software installation and calibration procedures, with comprehensive training materials and support documentation to ensure proper operation of the desktop platform.

Client Experience: A successful implementation hinges on how easily clients can engage with the technology. ShapeScale’s photorealistic 3D scans offer immediate visual feedback, which resonates more with clients compared to text-heavy or abstract metric reports. The emotional impact of seeing their own body changes helps drive repeat usage and higher satisfaction. Styku delivers detailed measurement precision and comprehensive body composition analysis, providing clients with extensive data and statistical comparisons for thorough progress tracking.

Operational Workflows: Businesses should evaluate how seamlessly the scanner integrates into their daily operations. ShapeScale enables high throughput with quick scan times and automated reporting, allowing staff to focus on client interaction rather than manual operation. Because ShapeScale does not require an operator, clients can independently complete their scans, further improving efficiency. Its built-in facial recognition automatically identifies returning users after their first assisted scan and sends them their most recent data, streamlining the process and ensuring a smooth, repeatable experience that fits effortlessly into busy schedules. Styku excels in environments where detailed documentation and extensive measurement databases are priorities, offering robust data export capabilities and customizable reporting features.

Marketing and Monetization: A key component of successful implementation is monetization strategy. ShapeScale provides in-built marketing support, including branded client reports, customizable marketing materials, and progress-sharing tools to help attract clients and increase scan engagement. Because clients have access to the ShapeScale app, they can share their scans with friends and family—creating a natural referral effect that draws in new customers and amplifies brand reach without extra marketing spend. This opens opportunities for upselling wellness programs, retention memberships, or even charging per scan. Styku offers comprehensive analytical reports and detailed progress documentation that can enhance credibility in medical and clinical settings, supporting premium service positioning through data-driven results.

Data Management and Privacy: Compliance with data security and privacy standards is crucial, especially in medical or wellness settings. ShapeScale adheres to modern data protocols and offers secure storage and access, giving businesses peace of mind when handling client information. All scans are protected with end-to-end encryption, ensuring that no one—other than the client and the service provider—can access the scans or their associated data. Styku provides enterprise-grade data management with extensive customization options, detailed audit trails, and flexible privacy controls suitable for clinical and research environments. Styku, on the other hand, protects data from interception or theft, however it is decrypted inside Styku’s cloud for their serves to process it. This means that Styku’s personnel and other services with privileges may view or process it as needed, hence, does not meet the standards of end-to-end encryption.

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ShapeScale vs Styku: Industry Applications Compared

Each industry has unique priorities—whether it’s aesthetics, improved body composition or general health and wellbeing. When selecting a 3D body scanner, it’s important to select a system that best fits your business priorities and enhances your service offerings. This section explores ShapeScale vs Styku across various major industries.

Medical Spa

It is imperative for medical spas offering treatments such as cool sculpting, radio frequency, cellulite reduction, and others to demonstrate to their clients the changes in their body. In such businesses, success in measured by visual and numeric results. ShapeScale enables this through its photorealistic 3D avatars, progress measurements, and heatmaps. This allows practitioners to show clients exactly where fat reduction occurred through color-coded visualizations. Skin treatments that require an added level of detail are supported by ShapeScale’s photorealistic surface detail capture that can reveal improved skin texture and contour that Styku’s monochrome models miss entirely. ShapeScale keeps clients informed on the changes in their body every step of the treatment–they are able to experience the effectiveness of the treatment and share it with others. Styku's basic before/after silhouettes may fail to capture these nuanced aesthetic improvements that justify premium treatment pricing.

ShapeScale at Medical Spas

ShapeScale is a popular investment for Medical Spas across the country. In the video above, we share a testimonial from HydroBodySculpt. ShapeScale has helped HydroBodySculpt run promotions to do discounted scans, and it opens them up to an array of services that HydroBodySculpt provides.

Click here to learn more about how ShapeScale can support your Medical Spa. You can also download below case study from Innovaes Regenerative Sciences to read about how ShapeScale has supported other Medical Spa (body contouring) businesses.

Case study Body Contouring.pdf

Weight Loss Clinic

For weight loss clinic, GLP-1 programs and bariatric surgery patients need to see in-depth body data for continuous motivation through these month long journeys. Both ShapeScale and Styku support tracking fat and muscle loss to ensure that patients do not loose too much muscle, this supports patients in remaining healthy throughout their weight loss journey and reduces risks for the business. ShapeScale provides a full visual analysis of body reshaping, the key metrics combined with body composition data, helps patients understand why measurements matter more than pounds. The circumference and volume tracking and heatmap features further illustrate the body regions experiencing most loss and body composition changes. This is a game-changer for weight loss practices, fostering trust between businesses and clients through full transparency and results visualized. Styku's numerical circumference tracking requires staff interpretation to explain progress, creating barriers to self-motivation that can lead to program dropouts.

ShapeScale at Weight Loss Clinics

Pepfit Health & Wellness is a weight loss clinic based in Louisiana that provides cutting-edge peptide treatment & medical weight loss to clients. Download full case study below to learn more about how Pepfit Health & Wellness uses ShapeScale throughout clients weight loss journey and effectively enhances client motivation and engagement.

Pepfit Health & Wellness Case Study

Plastic Surgeons

For plastic surgery practices, offering procedures like Brazilian butt lifts, tummy tucks, liposuction, and others. Plastic surgeons offer GLP-1 treatments, and with ShapeScale’s photorealistic before and after views, surgeons can upsell various other procedures. Plastic surgeons can also do an analysis of patients to recommend treatments they may have available. Post-surgery, the comparison and heatmap features can help both surgeons and patients interact with the results across every body part. The volume measurements and heatmap illustrate how your body has changed after the operation. Styku's abstract silhouettes cannot convey the aesthetic nuances to their fullest, which is critical for surgical decisions, leaving patients uncertain about their outcomes. Ultimately, patients are eager to see what their body looks like after an operation, and this can only be possible with ShapeScale’s 3D photorealistic technology.

ShapeScale at Plastic Surgeons

Austin Plastic Surgeon is a top plastic surgeon company based in Austin offering services such as cosmetic and reconstructive procedures, body sculpting procedures, facial plastic surgery, non-surgical services. Learn more about how ShapeScale has supported businesses in the aesthetics industry.

Fitness

Client motivation and engagement is essential to personal training/fitness businesses. In this industry, proof of client results set the foundation of the business. ShapeScale brings progress tracking to a new level, with essential body metrics such a weight, lean mass, body fat percentage, BMR, etc. It also allows trainers and clients to monitor muscle gain and fat loss throughout the body along with circumference and volume changes of every body part. Shape Score and Health Score also challenges fitness enthusiasts to constantly improve their overall physique while remaining healthy. Styku also offers precise body composition tracking with 3D models that fitness professionals can use to highlight shape changes and set goals. The system allows clients to compare their body fat percentage to others in their age and gender category, set fitness goals, and track progress through detailed scan history graphs that document transformation over time.

‍ShapeScale at Fitness Centers

The Fit Shop is a functional, strength, conditioning, boxing, fitness studio based in Florida! Watch this video to see how ShapeScale’s technology has transformed client retention and progress tracking for The Fit Shop. See how ShapeScale is used in fitness centers across the country, click here to learn. Bring ShapeScale to your personal training studio or gym now!

Physical Therapy

Physical therapy centers need precise tracking tools to monitor patient recovery and demonstrate progress. Styku excels at providing detailed symmetry measurements and postural analysis, giving therapists reliable data to track improvements in body alignment and balance over time. Its comprehensive measurement system is particularly valuable for documenting clinical progress in rehabilitation programs. ShapeScale offers similar tracking capabilities but adds visual elements that can enhance patient understanding and motivation. The visual progress timeline helps patients see their recovery milestones, which can be especially valuable during long rehabilitation programs where progress feels slow. For conditions like lymphedema, both systems can track volume changes, though ShapeScale's visual approach may help patients better understand their condition. While Styku's desktop interface works well for clinical documentation, ShapeScale's mobile interface allows therapists to more easily engage patients during education sessions about their recovery progress.

Other‍

Research institutions conducting body composition studies benefit from Styku's strict measurement repeatability and statistical rigor, making it ideal for controlled clinical environments requiring precise data collection. However, in a marketplace where consumer expectations are higher than ever, where data visualization can make or break client relationships, and where the difference between good and great often lies in the details of presentation, your choice of 3D body scanner becomes a defining business decision.

Now it’s for you to decide: What 3D body scanner best suits your business needs?