Meshroom is a cutting-edge free open-source 3D Reconstruction Software developed based on the AliceVision framework, offering robust algorithms for 3D reconstruction and camera tracking. Meshroom plays a crucial role in various industries like Robotics, Medicine, Video games, movies, and geomatics.
For those exploring alternatives to Meshroom, choices encompass Meshmixer, MeshLab, Meshilicious, COLMAP, Reality Capture, PolyCam, Pix4D, Recap, PhotoScan, WebODM, Zephyr, Blender, Tinkercad, and Fusion 360.
Meshmixer: The Key Player in 3D Modeling
Belonging to the esteemed Autodesk family, Meshmixer is a free and user-friendly software tailored specifically for creating 3D mashups and remixes. It revels in the realm of 3D printing, presenting a gamut of modeling and printing solutions.
Meshmixer Top Features
3D Sculpting Tools: Allows detailed sculpting with symmetry options.
Mesh Smoothing and Remeshing: For seamless model attachment.
3D Print Preparatory Tools: Includes slicing tools, escape holes for hollowing, fragility analysis.
Edit Functions: Make solid, Hollow, Separate shells, Resize, Measure.
Analysis and Inspection Tools: For stability and thickness analysis, aids in troubleshooting potential design problems.
Additional Features
The Benefit
Support for Multiple File Formats
Complete compatibility with STL, OBJ, Collada, WRL etc
Convenience in Printing
Direct printing on a connected 3D printer or via Sculpteo online service
Custom Support Creation
Customizable supports to suit specific needs
Meshmixer Limitations
Unfortunately, even the most powerful software has certain downsides that one must consider. Although Meshmixer offers a rich feature palette, the company summary doesn’t list any explicit disadvantages, underlining its strong standing in the 3D modeling market. Should any user-specific limitations come into play, they would perhaps be derived from individual project requirements.
The Bonus Point: Meshmixer Pricing
No, you’re not dreaming. Yes, Meshmixer is absolutely free! This cost-effective software is a boon for professionals and hobbyists alike who seek to transform their innovative ideas into tangible realities.
Meshmixer Use Cases
Use Case 1: Inventors and Entrepreneurs
For innovators stepping forward with disruptive ideas, Meshmixer acts as an indispensable tool. It helps transform abstract concepts into concrete 3D representations efficiently.
Use Case 2: Artists and 3D Modelers
An artist’s paradise, Meshmixer offers magical functionality to play around with design properties with an added advantage of analyzing models for print properties.
Use Case 3: Hobbyists
Despite its state-of-art capabilities, Meshmixer maintains a straightforward user interface, making it a hot favorite amongst hobbyists who can tinker, innovate and create with minimal hassle.
MeshLab
Introducing MeshLab, a highly versatile tool aimed at editing, cleaning, and rendering large 3D triangular meshes. Providing a sophisticated platform with various versions ranging from 2022.02 to the 2016 release, each iteration carries its unique features and improvements in function and user experience.
MeshLab Top Features
Globally recognized, having received the Eurographics Software Award in 2017.
Recent versions include the 2022.02, 2021.10, and 2021.07, which introduced a new plugin for exact mesh booleans.
Features a total rewriting of the rendering system.
Utilizes GPL VCG library for various mesh processing tasks, enhancing its capabilities.
Version
Specific Feature
2021.10
New plugin for exact mesh booleans
2020.07
New plugin “Global Registration”
2020.06
Dropped support to XML plugins
MeshLab Limitations
Described as complex and error-prone in terms of usability.
Struggles with low user ratings, indicating areas for improvement.
MeshLab Use Cases
Use Case 1
Highly beneficial for professionals needing to edit and clean large 3D triangular meshes, such as architects or game designers.
Use Case 2
Offers more technical users the tools and flexibility they need to render complex projects.
Use Case 3
Well-suited to students or educators in the 3D graphics sector, offering a comprehensive platform for applied learning.
Zephyr
Emerging into the 3D graphics and modeling arena, we introduce to you Zephyr, a ground-breaking photogrammetry solution engineered by 3Dflow. Launched in 2014, Zephyr employs an array of sensors and innovative acquisition techniques for superior 3D reconstructions.
Zephyr Top Features
All-in-one software suite, transforming photos/videos into 3D models.
Compatible with a wide range of cameras, sensors, lenses, and focal lengths, maximizing versatility.
Incubates registration and analysis of laser scan data.
Crowned the first photogrammetry software on Steam, fully operational on Linux via Wine assistance.
Feature
Description
Academically Traceable
Zephyr has gained significant reputation in the academic world and is cited in numerous papers.
Strong Community Support
Zephyr boasts a vibrant community, fostering continuous technical support and comprehensive guides for new users.
Zephyr Limitations
The free version only offers limited photos (50), 1 NVIDIA GPU support and JPG texture export.
Advanced features only available in Pro version.
Software requires assistance to run on Linux.
Zephyr Pricing
Zephyr offers a one-time payment option of €149. Separate packages include a “Lite” version at €199+VAT and the “Pro” version at a hefty €4200+VAT. A free version is available, and a subscription model is provided at €250+VAT/month.
Zephyr Use Cases
Use case 1 – Professional 3D Modeling
Zephyr’s superior 3D reconstruction ability makes it a worthy tool for professional modelers, animators, and architects, transforming an array of images into high-quality 3D models.
Use case 2 – GIS and Surveying
Zephyr is an indispensable asset to cartographers and surveyors, granting features such as orthophoto & DEM generation, GIS, CAD, & survey tools.
Use case 3 – Academic Research
Its academic traceability makes Zephyr an eminent choice for researchers in the fields of computer vision and 3D modeling, offering precision, variety, and in-depth analysis tools.
Blender
Designed as a multifaceted 3D computer graphics software toolset, Blender is a free and open-source solution for a comprehensive range of applications, including animated films, virtual reality, visual effects, 3D-printed models, and more. Developed and initially released by the Dutch animation studio NeoGeo in 1994, it has since transitioned into a community-driven project under the non-profit Blender Foundation.
Blender’s Top Features
3D modeling: Sculpt and develop intricate digital designs with Blender’s robust 3D modeling tools.
UV mapping and Texturing: Easily convert three-dimensional coordinates into two-dimensional textures for complex renderings.
Raster graphics editing: Modify rasterized graphic content directly in the software.
Sophisticated physics simulations: Recreate real-world phenomena with fluid, smoke, soft body, and particle simulations.
Animation: Build dynamic animated content across a range of formats.
Format Support
Development Community
Supports multiple 3D file formats for import/export like Alembic, 3DS, FBX, DXF, etc.
A dedicated group composing of 26 full-time contributors and freelancers.
Written in C, C++, and Python, it ensures programmatic flexibility.
Endorsed by community crowdfunding and open-sourcing since 2002.
Blender Limitations
Loss of Blender Game Engine and Blender Internal with version updates.
With non-commercial origins, Blender may not offer the same dedicated customer support or development roadmap often found in proprietary software.
Blender Pricing
Embodying the spirit of open-source software, Blender is entirely free to download and use, fostering accessibility and promoting community-led development.
Blender Use Cases
Use Case 1: Animated Films
Blender’s comprehensive toolset lends itself well for creating animated films, providing everything from modeling to rendering in one package.
Use Case 2: Visual Effects
Its robust simulation features enable artists to create stunning visual effects for films and games across various genres.
Use Case 3: Interactive 3D Applications
In the realm of interactive 3D applications, Blender’s comprehensive suite of tools empowers developers to craft intuitive and immersive experiences.
Tinkercad
From the ambit of tech giant Autodesk, Tinkercad – a popular, free, and online-based 3D modeling software – is level-entry to constructive solid geometry, and a favored 3D printing platform in various educational institutions.
Tinkercad Top Features
Intuitive, drag-and-drop functionality, and easy-to-navigate user interface.
Third-party compatibility with STL, OBJ (for 3D modeling), and SVG (for 2D).
Exports 3D designs to Minecraft Java edition and structures using Lego bricks.
While free, it’s part of the Autodesk ecosystem, thereby scaling with more advanced tools and platforms from Autodesk might not be seamless.
Tinkercad Pricing
Tinkercad is, remarkably, offered for free. No hidden charges or locked features, absolutely suitable for entry-level exploration and educational purposes.
Tinkercad Use Cases
Use case 1 – Education
From individual learning to classroom settings, thanks to its user-friendliness and a thorough suite of online tutorials, students can convert lessons into 3D models.
Use case 2 – Hobbyists
For hobbyists, with its simple interface, powerful modeling features, and ability to create 3D printable designs make it an ideal choice.
Use case 3 – Electromechanical Prototyping
Providing an online circuit simulation platform, Tinkercad is an excellent and quick way to prototype electromechanical designs.
Fusion 360
Meet Fusion 360, a cloud-based collaboration platform developed by the tech giant, Autodesk. Established since 2013, it has been dominating in numerous sectors, typically electronics, aesthetic design, and architecture.
Not confined by Windows or macOS; reach it even via Android, iOS, and web browsers. Fusion 360 combines the power of CAD, CAM, CAE, and PCB design, asserting its prowess in a multilingual milieu.
Fusion 360 Top Features
Advanced 2D & 3D designing: Enables rendering lifelike visuals.
Flexible Direct Modelling: Optimises form without any hassle.
PCB layouts: Simplifies circuit design in the electronics sector.
Simulation capabilities: Tests the product design under real-world simulations.
Cloud Integration: Streamlines workflow for seamless co-design.
Realistic Rendering: Provides photorealistic visualizations in record time.
Feature
Benefit
Topology Shape Optimisation
Allows for fine-tuning designs to optimise cost and performance.
Cooling of Electronics
Ensures the safety and longevity of electronic components.
Online Learning
Ample resources for mastering the tool, bolstered by a supportive online community.
Fusion 360 Downsides
Potential malware risks: Users should exercise due caution.
Lack of personal keyboard controls: Limits user customisation.
No web-based standalone version: Disallows operation sans application installation.
Fusion 360 Pricing
With a free limited version for home use, Fusion 360 boasts an affordable annual plan at $545/year or a monthly subscription of $70. A boon for SMEs to make the most of its comprehensive features!
Fusion 360 Use Cases
Use case 1: Electronic Design
Integrated electronics for MCAD and ECAD co-designing make Fusion 360 invaluable to electronics firms.
Use case 2: Aesthetic Design
With advanced 2D & 3D designing, flexible direct modeling, Fusion 360 stands out in the aesthetic design field.
Use case 3: Architecture Design
Fusion 360’s realistic rendering and topology shape optimization are indispensable to the architecture industry.
Meshilicious
Manufactured by the joint venture of Lian Li and NCASE, Ssupd brings you Meshilicious. The first PC case from their end that is small but powerful with a 14.6-litre internal capacity.
Meshilicious Top Features
Compact Mini-ITX case with dimensions 245 x 166.4 x 360mm (LxWxH).
Integrated with four mesh panels for excellent airflow and RGB illumination.
Powers up with large 4-slot GPUs up to 366mm in length.
Accommodates an RTX 3090 10GB graphics card.
Performance of a tower in a mini PC with Intel technology.
Supports up to 64GB 3,000MHz DDR4 RAM with BeQuiet Liquid CPU cooler.
Motherboard support includes Asrock B560-ITX/AC, Asrock Z590m ITX/AC, and MSI Z590i Unify.
Flexible dual-storage design using M.2 SSD and a 2.5inch HDD or SSD in combination.
Manual options
i7-12700k or i5-13600k CPUs, upgradable and plug-and-play.
GPU compatibility
RTX A4000, RTX 3060 Ti, or 3070 GPUs
Panel features
5x USB 3.1, 2x USB 2.0, 2x Ethernet Ports, Audio Jacks HDMI Out + Display Port Out with a max resolution of 4096×2160 @60Hz via DP.
Meshilicious Limitations
New venture might entail risk of untested product.
Space constraints due to compact structure.
Custom modification with mATX mainboard, radiator, and PSU repositioning may be challenging for some users.
Meshilicious Pricing
Meshilicious pricing may vary based on retailers, partnerships, or deals with manufacturers. It is best to check the latest price on the official website or authorised resellers.
Meshilicious Use Cases
Use Case 1 – High-Performance Gaming
Support for top-end Intel CPUs and up to 64GB 3,000MHz DDR4 RAM makes it an excellent choice for high-performance gaming, without compromising streaming performance.
Use Case 2 – VR/AR Development
Featuring support for top-tier GPUs like RTX 3090 or 3070, Meshilicious meets the hardware requirements for VR or AR developers.
Use Case 3 – Compact PC Build
With its mini-ITX form factor and flexible storage options, Meshilicious is suitable for compact PC builds that don’t compromise on functionality and performance.
COLMAP
Enter the strategic world of COLMAP, an alternative to VisualSFM and CMPMVS, designed to offer excellence in 3D reconstruction. This new kid on the chessboard enables you to generate a detailed, vibrant color mesh in less time than CMPMVS, and runs effectively on all major platforms, inclusive of Linux, Mac, and Windows.
COLMAP Top|Best Features
Caters to both exterior and interior imaging, making it a versatile choice for varied environments.
Superior performance with high resolution images, preserving detail to enhance your visual outputs.
Furnished with an end-to-end image-based 3D reconstruction, equipped with both a graphical and command-line interface.
Comprehensive matching modes including Exhaustive Matching, Sequential Matching, Vocabulary Tree Matching, Spatial Matching and Transitive Matching, offering flexibility in deployment.
Offers color vertex application during meshing, contributing towards more visually appealing reconstructions.
Platform
Benefits
Runs on Linux, Mac and Windows
Fully accessible across major platforms
Featureless surface handling
Efficient smoothing enhances visual quality
Export capabilities
Exports reconstruction in separate text files for cameras, images, and points
COLMAP Limitations|Disadvantages|Downsides
Requires a CUDA compatible graphics card for effective operation, which can limit its usage across systems.
Despite significant upgrades, it can still lag in terms of featureless surface handling compared to some of the leading tools.
COLMAP Pricing
COLMAP is licensed under the GNU General Public License, making it a free, open-source software.
COLMAP Use Cases
Use case 1
For professionals dealing with high-resolution images, COLMAP’s superior performance can significantly enhance the quality and detail of 3D reconstructions.
Use case 2
In instances of meshing requirements, COLMAP amplifies the aesthetic appeal of the final output by utilizing color vertex application.
Use case 3
With its extensive compatibility across Linux, Mac, and Windows, COLMAP is an accessible choice for diverse users irrespective of their operating environment.
Reality Capture
Become one with the fusion of photogrammetry and laser scanning – welcome to the universe of Reality Capture. Embraced by fields varying from gaming to VR, this 3D computer graphics software unfurls a seamless 3D world from unordered photos or laser scans.
Reality Capture Top Features
Image Registration and Calibration: Crafted for precision, it aligns the captured elements perfectly.
Polygon Mesh Calculation: Sculpt your 3D model with detailed polygon meshes.
Aggregated data remains grounded to an exact geological location.
Command Line Operation
A technical edge allows tailored controls for operations.
Software Developer Kit
Ace your project by customizing the software as per your needs.
Reality Capture Limitations
Limited to 32 CPU cores, requires additional licenses for higher configurations.
Requires 64bit Windows 7/8/8.1/10, and Nvidia CUDA 2.0+ GPU.
Max usage of 2500 photos, comes without technical support in Promo license.
Reality Capture Pricing
Emphasizing equitable access to technology, Reality Capture offers a per use pricing model. A mere $10 will grant you 3,500 credits to embark on your creative journey.
Reality Capture Use Cases
Use case 1 – Gaming
For the game developers amongst us, Reality Capture weaves the realm of your dream game with in-depth polygons and terrestrial detailing.
Use case 2 – Virtual Reality
Unreal Engine users, rejoice! With its acquisition by Epic Games and prospective integration, Reality Capture promises enriched immersive experiences.
Use case 3 – Architectural Design
Architects can boldly visualize & present their structures within future settings, offering stakeholders an inspiring vision of their investment.
PolyCam
An advanced 3D scanning app that caters to a variety of industries, including construction, VFX, architecture, and interior design, PolyCam leverages cutting-edge technology like LiDAR scanning and photogrammetry to capture intricate details of objects and scenes, making it a worthy Meshroom alternative.
PolyCam Top Features
LiDAR Scanning: Offers impeccable depth perception and spatial awareness.
360-Degree Panorama Capture: Facilitates immersive captures essential for AR experiences.
PolyCam for Teams: Fosters collaboration by providing content, user management tools.
Room Mode: AI-based feature for generating detailed floor plans.
Measurement tool: Offers inch-level accuracy, crucial for precise architectural designs.
Feature
Description
Advanced Export formats
Available through Pro edition, allows integration with Blender, Cinema4D, Unity, Unreal.
Stability AI
Generative AI model used for stable and high quality 360 captures.
PolyCam Limitations
LiDAR feature requires devices with a LiDAR sensor
The Android version of the app currently lacks Photo Mode feature
Texture larger than 4K can appear black on mobile web browsers
PolyCam Pricing
For users requiring additional capabilities, PolyCam offers a Pro edition priced at $14.99/month or $79.99/year, unlocking advanced export formats and unlimited Photo Mode captures.
PolyCam Use Cases
For Architects
PolyCam‘s high-precision scanning and measurement tool, combined with its detailed floor plan generation feature, make it a powerful aid in architectural design process.
For VFX Artists
With its Object Capture technology sourced from Apple and advanced export formats compatibility, PolyCam facilitates creation and integration of authentic and highly detailed 3D models into VFX scenes.
For Interior Designers
PolyCam can help designers build and visualize concepts with its AR capabilities, extract exact measurements, and even populate rooms with furniture virtually using Room Mode feature.
Pix4D
With roots sprawling across several global locations, Pix4D stands as a stalwart in the domain of drone mapping and photogrammetry software. It deftly manages conversion of diverse image sources into georeferenced 2D mosaics and 3D models, translating data into valuable insight.
Pix4D Top Features
Pix4Dmapper allows precise transformation of images into 2D maps and 3D models.
Its desktop version encourages auto-conversion, catering to varied applications and industries.
Optimized for public safety and emergency response, Pix4Dreact constructs intricate 2D maps from drone images
Pix4Dcapture, a flight-planning mobile app, opens the door to new possibilities with flight plan and parameter adjustments
Personal Support and Upgrades (S&U) are included for the duration of all subscriptions, enriching user experience
Feature
Detail
Pix4Dmapper
Transforms images into precise 2D maps, 3D models
Pix4Dreact
2D mapping from drone images, designed specifically for cryptical insights
Pix4Dcapture
Flight planning mobile app with flexible adjustments in flight plan and parameters
Pix4D Disadvantages
Payment for licenses is limited to credit card, PayPal; wire transfers only for amounts above 1500 US$, €, CHF.
Subscriptions renew on a month-to-month basis, requiring vigilant cancellations before renewal.
Refunds are not provided for cancellations.
Pix4D Pricing
Pix4D operates on a subscription model, renewable on a month-to-month basis. Payment is facilitated through credit card or PayPal, with wire transfers allowed for transactions exceeding US $1500, € or CHF. Note that refunds are not granted for cancellations.
Pix4D Use Cases
Use case 1: 3D maps Creation
Pix4D empowers you to transform a variety of image sources – whether hand-captured, drone-taken or pulled from a plane – into precise 2D maps or 3D models.
Use case 2: Public Safety and Emergency Response
With Pix4Dreact, safety officers and emergency responders can extract valuable insights from complex 2D maps, elevating their efficiency and response time.
Use case 3: Flight Planning and Aerial Mapping
Pix4Dcapture, a flight planning mobile app available for both Android and iOS, aids in comprehensive aerial mapping and 3D modeling with easy and adjustable flight planning.
Recap
Immerse yourself into the world of 3D reality capture with Autodesk’s Recap. It’s a powerful tool, born out of the lineage of RealViz Image Modeler and ReMake, that brings survey-grade accuracy to your fingertips. It gives designers and engineers the power to create detailed models of real-world assets using high-resolution photographs and laser-scanned data.
Seamless integration with Autodesk Drive, Autodesk Docs, and BIM 360 Docs
Powerful measurement feature with customizable import settings and filters
Cloud-based add-on service, ReCap 360, for extra project storage and sharing capabilities
Expansive collection of point cloud data processing, cleaning, and visualization tools
Feature
Benefit
ReCap Connect Partnership Program
Opportunity to develop specific applications via the ReCap Photo Web API
Compatibility with Mediums
Integrated with Roux SDK, Scandy Pro, IGiS Photogrammetry Suite
Availability
Part of Autodesk Design Suites, making it accessible for most customers
Recap Downsides
ReCap Photo only supports cloud processing, no local processing feature
High cost for processing objects under 300 photos on ReCap Photo
ReCap Photo is more expensive due to cloud processing expenses
Recap Pricing
ReCap Pro subscription includes Autodesk’s product for 3D Reality Capture – ReCap Photo. Processing objects with fewer than 300 photos costs $12 / €13.80, which can be slightly hefty for those seeking photogrammetry software. The platform offers 25GB of Autodesk 360 storage and 50 cloud credits for ReCap 360 projects.
Recap Use Cases
Use case 1: Designers
Recap equips designers with detailed 3D representation of their projects, ensuring accurate model generation. It eliminates the need for costly, complex equipment by creating models from multiple photos or scans.
Use case 2: Engineers
Engineers can leverage Recap’s high-precision GPS technology for survey-grade accuracy on their projects. The tool’s compatibility with other Autodesk platforms facilitates seamless workflow integration.
Use case 3: Third-Party Developers
With the power of the ReCap Connect Partnership Program, third-party developers can develop unique applications using the ReCap Photo Web API, allowing businesses to expand their reach and potential.
PhotoScan
Developed by Google, PhotoScan has emerged as a powerful tool that turns your physical photos into high-definition digital scans, utilizing advanced AI technology and sophisticated algorithms for enhanced image quality.
PhotoScan Best Features
User-friendly Interface: Intuitive and simple to navigate, making the scanning process swift and easy.
Fast Processing Time: The app takes between 15 to 30 seconds to scan an image.
Glare-free Scans: The app uses a unique stitching method to provide digital scans free from glare.
Automatic Cropping and Perspective Correction: Edge detection and perspective correction are automatically handled.
High-resolution Scans: Outputs images at a resolution of 72 ppi, perfect for online sharing.
Cloud Integration: Scanned images are saved directly in Google Photos for easy editing and sharing.
Smart Rotation
Keeps the orientation of the photo intact during scanning
Multiple Operating Support
Available for both Android (5.0 and above) and iOS users
Cloud Service Integration
Allows for secure storage and sharing of scanned photos
PhotoScan Limitations
Depends on the Phone’s Camera Quality: Output quality is directly influenced by the quality of your phone’s camera.
Glare-free Environment Needed: Scanning speed is affected if the environment has glare.
PhotoScan Pricing
Google offers PhotoScan for free, generating an affordable solution for high-quality digital scanning.
PhotoScan Use Cases
Personal Archiving
PhotoScan is an excellent tool for individuals seeking to digitalize their old photo collections conveniently and efficiently.
Professional Settings
Its robust feature-set makes it ideal for use in professional settings such as museums and historical societies.
Educational Purposes
PhotoScan can greatly assist in curating digital educational materials, allowing for easy sharing and access.
WebODM
WebODM, an open-source photogrammetry toolkit designed and developed by OpenDroneMap, introduced in 2013, carries the promise of converting aerial imagery into awe-inspiring maps and dynamic 3D models. This distinguished toolset stems from innovative attempts circa 2003, to map carbon sequestration from red-edge camera images.
WebODM Top Features
Stable release 3.1.0 as of March 2023.
Cross-platform compatibility with Windows, Linux, MacOS.
Languages supported include Python, C++, JavaScript, Shell, and Go.
Collaboration with American Red Cross’s in-field Portable OpenStreetMap system.
Linked with Mapillary and Spotscale
Skillful transformation of raw data using Perl, Ruby, and Python
Integration with NodeODM
Parallel processing made effective and efficient
User-friendly interface
Made possible by Humanitarian Innovation Fund grant in 2016
WebODM Downsides
In spite of the breadth of its impressive features, certain caveats come with the usage of WebODM
Requires significant initial setup and knowledge of photogrammetry.
May present a steep learning curve for beginners without technical background.
WebODM Pricing
WebODM offers its cutting-edge features freely, distributed on GitHub as an underpinning of its open-source roots.
WebODM Use Cases
Use case 1 – Geographical Mapping
A boon to geological or environmental researchers, WebODM’s adept interpretation of aerial imagery enhances effective mapping of vast geographical terrains
Use case 2 – Urban Planning
Crafting immersive 3D models, WebODM provides city planners and architects a detailed canvas to envision and design urban landscapes
Use case 3 – Disaster Response
Teaming up with American Red Cross’s Portable OpenStreetMap system, it aids in quick mapping for efficient disaster response.
Tiffany Brise
Content writer @ Aircada, patiently awaiting a consumer AR headset that doesn’t suck.
