This publication presents a comparative analysis of terrestrial laser scanning (TLS) and flatbed scanning in the context of visual documentation of decorative plaster tile surfaces. The aim of the study was to evaluate the effectiveness of both methods in reproducing both the geometric and visual characteristics of plaster surface textures, which, due to their irregular and rough structure, require precise measurement techniques. As part of the study, 52 tiles were collected, each with two plaster structures – ‘lamb’ and ‘woodworm’ – giving a total of 104 test fields. The measurements were carried out under controlled laboratory conditions using a Leica ScanStation P40 laser scanner and a Plustek OpticPro A320 flatbed scanner. Point clouds and images were obtained from the TLS, and high-resolution TIFF images were obtained from the flatbed scanner. Analysis of the collected data revealed significant differences between the two methods, particularly in terms of reproduction of quality of colour and texture. The flatbed scanner provided high colour fidelity, vivid colours, and detailed texture reproduction, including micro-protrusions and grooves. The images from the flatbed scanner were free of geometric distortions, offering controlled, perpendicular shots. In contrast, the scans made with the terrestrial laser scanner were characterised by dark, low-saturation images with blurred colour differences, often making it impossible to clearly determine the colour of the surface. Analysis of the texture from the TLS was difficult due to a lack of contrast and adequate lighting. In addition, the TLS images showed deformations and loss of focus. Overall, the study clearly demonstrated that a handheld flatbed scanner (referred to in the summary as a handheld 3D scanner) offers a significant advantage over a terrestrial laser scanner (TLS) in the context of visual assessment of plaster tile surfaces, particularly with regard to colour and texture fidelity.