2024’s Top 16 3DF Zephyr Alternatives

Meshroom
Metashape
WebODM
Zephyr
ReCap Pro
Agisoft
Reality Scan
ContextCapture
Reality Capture
Regard3D
Meshilicious
COLMAP
PolyCam
Pix4D
Recap
PhotoScan: The Futuristic Photo Archiver

3DF Zephyr is a comprehensive photogrammetry software developed by 3DFLOW, first released in January 2014. It automates 3D model reconstruction from photos and supports various camera sensors, drones, and laser scanners. With features like true orthophotos, multi-GPU support, and CAD drawing capabilities, it caters to a wide range of users from hobbyists to professionals.

Differences of and

Those exploring alternatives to 3DF Zephyr may consider Meshroom, Metashape, Reality Capture, Regard3D, Meshilicious, COLMAP, PolyCam, Pix4D, Recap, PhotoScan, WebODM, ReCap Pro, Agisoft, Reality Scan, and ContextCapture.

Meshroom

Immerse yourself in the digital artistry of Meshroom, a gift by academia and industry to the world of 3D Graphics & Modeling. This free, open-source 3D Reconstruction Software pivots on the robust bedrock of the AliceVision framework, bringing to life an intriguing dance of 3D Reconstruction and Camera Tracking algorithms.

Meshroom Top|Best Features

Integrated with popular tools such as Blender, Maya, and Houdini plugins, supplemented by the CCTag library and PopSIFT.
Adaptable to multiple workflows, sustaining itself in render farm systems and customized studio pipeline.
Offers Augmented and Live Reconstruction modes to enhance real-life perception and interaction.
Proffers real-time 3D capture using Microsoft Kinect or Asus’s Xtion Pro Live.
Caters to a wide array of operating systems, including Windows and OSX/Linux.

Photogrammetry protocols	Extended Photogrammetry
Ideal for textured, rough items, with advice for coating glossy or transparent objects for better results.	The normal workflow of image import, project saving, computation commencement and halt, preview viewing and need adjustments are all facilitated in the process.

Meshroom Limitations|Disadvantanges|Downsides

Video inputs yield lower quality results compared to still images.
Transparent or glossy objects may require additional coating for best use.

Meshroom Pricing

This technological masterpiece goes against the current; it lets anyone play with powers of Augmented Reality for no cost. Yes, this truly open-source software asks for nothing but a citation if used for publication.

Meshroom Use Cases

Medicine

Meshroom breathes innovation into medical practices by enabling large-scale projects such as the CT scanning of a human body.

Robotics

In the realm of Robotics, it acts as a catalyst, facilitating real-time 3D capture and aiding in the creation of interactive models.

Entertainment

With its footprints in gaming and movies, Meshroom reinvents storytelling by integrating unique 3D modeling techniques and photogrammetry.

Metashape

From the creators at Agisoft comes Metashape, an innovatively designed photogrammetry application that transmutes simple images into information-rich 2D or 3D models. With a user-friendly interface facilitating usage and a spectrum of functions for different domains like GIS, VFX production, and cultural heritage documentation, Metashape places itself confidently on the 3D modeling stage.

Metashape Top Features

Operates on multiple operating systems like Windows, Linux, MacOS.
A clean user interface with a trendy dark mode option.
Option to build 3D models from depth maps, presenting comprehensive visualization.
A wide selection of export formats, including glTF, X3D, .obj, .pdf, and .stl.
Offers cloud dataset processing with cloud computing time directly purchasable from the software.
Features like “Align Chunks” and “Height field” allow for complex modeling capabilities.

Feature	Benefit
Auto mesh refinement	Ensures model quality improves during processing
Single Camera mode	Offers traditional 3D modeling
Inbuilt cleaning and crop tools	Enable efficient model creation with select and crop options

Metashape Limitations

There are times when processing can be on the slower side, with high accuracy processing taking 9 to 19+ hours.
Markers are recommended for image alignment, necessitating extra steps.
Extra step needed to reduce meshing noise by using Mesh from depth maps.

Metashape Pricing

Metashape comes with a variety of pricing options. It offers a standard edition for $179 with a comprehensive set of tools. The professional edition, enriched with additional features, comes at a $3499 tag. Educational discounts are also available, starting at $59.

Metashape Use Cases

Use case 1 – GIS

Metashape, with its advanced modeling capabilities, can be a great asset for GIS professionals. Its precise alignment and complex modeling features facilitate thoughtful spatial decision making.

Use case 2 – Cultural Heritage Documentation

Cultural heritage objects can be preserved and documented in the form of high-quality, detailed 3D models using Metashape. Its excellent texture building helps add a realistic overlay to the 3D models.

Use case 3 -VFX Production

The application’s geometric and color fidelity makes it an excellent tool in the VFX industry. Its versatile texture mapping options and affordable pricing make it a strong candidate for 3D modeling needs.

WebODM

An open-source photogrammetry toolkit, WebODM is a creation of OpenDroneMap that is designed to process aerial imagery into maps and 3D models. Launched in 2013, it is hosted on GitHub and runs on diverse platforms such as Windows, Linux, and MacOS.

WebODM Top Features

Rich Language Support: This platform supports numerous programming languages including Python, C++, JavaScript, Go, and Shell.
Mapillary and Spotscale Integration: WebODM has been redesigned with Mapillary and Spotscale using Perl, Ruby, and Python.
Parallel Processing: Integration with NodeODM allows for simultaneous data processing.
In-Built Server: The platform comes with an in-built server in Django and can run gunicorn.

Feature	Description
Logo Design	The iconic logo of WebODM was designed by the renowned artist, Catarino.
User-Friendly Interface	The 2016 Humanitarian Innovation Fund grant was geared towards making OpenDroneMap more user-friendly.
MicMac Processing Engine	WebODM allows the use of MicMac as a processing engine via NodeMICMAC.

WebODM Limitations

The toolkit’s original feature was more of a jest, predicting the geo’s future in 2014.
Initially, it required use of BundlerTools for photogrammetry processing.

WebODM Pricing

WebODM is available for free as it is an open-source platform hosted on GitHub. Its incredibly generous offering is a welcome advantage for enthusiasts and professionals alike.

WebODM Use Cases

Use case 1

Mapping Organizations: With its features like processing red-edge camera images, WebODM serves as a handy tool for organizations like the American Red Cross involved in mapping tasks.

Use case 2

Research Institutions: Institutions involved in research surrounding carbon sequestration mapping find WebODM an invaluable tool.

Use case 3

Education Sector: Educators and students in tech-related fields can use WebODM for learning, practice and project purposes, thanks to its open-source nature.

Zephyr

Developed by 3Dflow, Zephyr is a comprehensive photogrammetry solution in the realm of 3D graphics and modeling. This all-in-one software suite provides 3D reconstruction capabilities using pictures and videos harnessed from various sensors and acquisition techniques.

Zephyr Top Features

All-inclusive software for 3D reconstructions contacting photos/videos from different sensors and techniques.
Offers a compatible solution for diverse cameras, lenses, and focal lengths.
Empowers the users with laser scan data import, registration, and analysis.
Provides complete support for Linux through Wine assistance.
Features in-house software technology, making it non-reliant on third-party computer vision libraries.

Feature	Benefit
Multi-imagery Support	Supports photos, videos, spherical pictures, multispectral, thermal, and RGB imagery
Academic References	A software solution that’s academically traceable and cited in multiple papers
Community Support	Aims to continuously grow and improve with help from a robust online community

Zephyr Limitations

The ‘free’ version has a limitation of 50 photos and supports only 1 NVIDIA GPU.
Exhaustive features like advanced editing tools, laser scan support, and GIS, CAD & Survey tools are only available with the ‘Pro’ version.
Upcoming improvements such as an enhanced UI, better texture packing, and Detail Enhancement are not yet in place.

Zephyr Pricing

Zephyr is accessible with a one-time payment of €149. There is also a ‘free’ version available with limited features. Alternate plans include a ‘Lite’ version at €199+VAT, and a ‘Pro’ version that comes with exhaustive features for €4200+VAT. A subscription model is also available at €250+VAT/month.

Zephyr Use Cases

Use case 1: 3D Model Reconstruction

Zephyr is ideal for creating 3D reconstructions from photos or videos for researchers, architects, or game designers.

Use case 2: Data Analysis

With its laser scan data import, registration, and analysis, Zephyr is perfect for individuals or organizations needing to interpret elaborative datasets.

Use case 3: Multispectral Imagery

For experts involved in agriculture, forestry, or land use planning, Zephyr’s ability to process multispectral imagery can prove invaluable.

ReCap Pro

Want to redefine your path from the real world to the digital? When the physical and virtual realms collide, creating an exquisite blend of precision and innovation, ReCap Pro, an esteemed Autodesk product since 1982, is your go-to source, sculpting accurate 3D models from mere photographs and laser scans.

ReCap Pro Stellar Features

Propels team collaboration with reality-oriented design.
Utilizes ReCap Photo service to transmute drone imagery into vibrant 3D depictions of objects and site conditions.
Aids in generation of point clouds, meshes, and ortho photos.
Simplifies survey process, optimizes compatibility with various mobile devices.
Allows import of GoPro images, supports GPS tagging for precise geolocation and scaling.

Feature	Value
Software Development Kit (SDK)	Facilitates integration of reality data into Autodesk design and construction tools.
Side-by-side comparison	Compare RealView and overhead map view, toggle between 2D and 3D easily.
Highly accurate photo reconstruction	Employs high-precision GPS technology for unparalleled accuracy, sans ground control points.

ReCap Pro Limitations

Price may be a barrier for small businesses or individuals.
Learning curve for non-technical users.

ReCap Pro Pricing

Dive into the realm of 3D with ReCap Pro, without burning a hole in your pocket. Starting at a tempting $26 per month, you start a free trial before making any commitment. Access every feature, unrestricted, with licenses available on a monthly, yearly or 3-yearly plan.

ReCap Pro Use Cases

Use case 1: Team Collaboration

With ReCap Pro, collaborate with your team from anywhere. Create, view, and around your 3D models on your iPad Pro, in the field or from the comfort of your office.

Use case 2: Construction and Engineering Projects

ReCap Pro enables you to construct accurate, complex 3D models based on reality capture, thus simplifying otherwise time-consuming survey processes, enhancing your construction or engineering projects.

Use case 3: Advanced Processing with Leica BLK360 Laser Scanner

Upgrade your 3D modelling with advanced processing enabled via compatibility with the Leica BLK360 laser scanner, thus pushing the boundaries of your creativity.

Agisoft

Emerging as a global ambassador in 3D graphics and modeling, Agisoft paves the path for innovative and user-friendly solutions. Fueling the global tech unity, Agisoft’s flagship software, Metashape, originally dubbed ‘Photoscan,’ converges the worlds of AR/VR, gaming and immersive tech, and 3D printing, leveraging the power of photogrammetry.

Agisoft Top Features

Competitive pricing with availability of educational discounts and perpetual licenses.
Freedom to use unlimited photos and GPUs, enhancing processing and modeling power.
Constantly progressing, with processing speed that has more than doubled over time.
High-quality, detailed models enabled by diverse tools including mesh refining and creation from depth maps.
Direct import of video content with decomposing into individual frames.
Enhancement in image purity hubbed by potent masking tools for meticulous background removal.

Robust Functionality	No limitations on number of photos or GPUs used for rendering.
Global Appeal	Lower costs and unrestricted photo usage make it an excellent alternative.
EdTech Integration	Highly recognized within the educational tech community for enabling high-quality 3D model demonstrations.

Agisoft Limitations

Performance can be affected by using integrated GPUs, requiring user discretion.
The range of tools and features may require a learning curve for new users.

Agisoft Pricing

Agisoft emphasizes on affordability and value-for-money. The standard edition of Metashape is priced at $179 for a perpetual license, with a significant educational discount which takes it down to $59.

Agisoft Use Cases

Use Case 1: Reality Capture

Agisoft’s Metashape, breaching the limitations of photo numbers, presents a cost-effective choice for reality capture, fostering global tech unity.

Use Case 2: EdTech

The software enjoys substantial regard within EdTech communities globally, with models being demonstrated on Sketchfab.

Use Case 3: Cultural Heritage Documentation

Metashape‘s functionalities cater to diverse applications including cultural heritage documentation, creating a digital bridge across cultural nuances.

Reality Scan

Revolutionize your 3D gameplay creativity with Reality Scan, a free to download app by Epic Games. Specially designed for digital pioneers, it effortlessly scans real-life objects and turns them into 3D models, which can add unmatched realism to your gaming or project needs.

Reality Scan Best Features

Facilitates quick 3D model generation from pictures taken at various angles.
Compatibly interfaces with Sketchfab, a renowned 3D model sharing platform, to allow preview of scans before exporting.
Generously offers a free year of Sketchfab Pro for users, bringing new dimensions of creativity at your fingertips.
An Android version is in the making, signaling an even wider user accessibility starting 2023.

Enhanced Project Management	Equipped with a Project Library for better planning and tracking of 3D modeling projects.
Community Feedback and Sharing	Features a feedback system and a dedicated hashtag #realityscan, fueling a socially collaborative AR environment.
Underpinning Technology	Employs the same technology as MetaHuman Creator – a mainstay in over half the next-gen games. You’re tapping into the cutting-edge of gaming tech.

Reality Scan Limitations

However, like any true innovator, Reality Scan has its learning curve and challenges.

The technology it uses, Photogrammetry, can be sensitive to external conditions like lighting and environmental factors, which could affect your overall 3D model quality.
3D scans can be a touch inaccurate, especially while capturing fine details.
Struggles with reflective surfaces could pose a limitation in creating realistic scans.

Reality Scan Pricing

Here’s the magic, Reality Scan is free! Yes, that’s right – free to download, ensuring the power of 3D modeling remains accessible and affordable.

Reality Scan Use Cases

Use case 1 – Gaming

If you’re a game developer or a designer, Reality Scan can help you create life-like 3D game objects without having to build them from scratch.

Use case 2 – Designers

All set to leave your mark in the world of 3D design? Reality Scan can make your design projects more realistic and engaging with its easy-to-use scanning and modeling features.

Use case 3 – Architectural Visualization

In the realm of architectural visualization, Reality Scan can be your secret tool to create lifelike 3D models of buildings, enhancing client presentations and blueprints.

ContextCapture

A product by Bentley Systems, ContextCapture is highly powerful software capable of creating precise 3D models using photos and LiDAR point clouds. This dynamic tool is a part of the Reality Modeling WorkSuite and is widely used in various infrastructure projects.

ContextCapture Top Features

Produces high-quality 3D meshes for diverse infrastructure projects.
Fastest processing available today, using machine-learning for accurate data interpretation.
Automates 3D mesh generation workflow integrating with GIS formats in any workflow.
Enables online streaming of multi-resolution reality meshes, improving accessibility and collaboration.
Features such as level-of-detail generation, adaptive tiling, surface and volume measurement enhance the detailing in models.
Intuitive user interface facilitating a smooth, hassle-free modeling experience.

Unique Feature	Description
iTwin Capture Modeler and iTwin Capture Modeler Center	Two versions that cater to different scale of projects, enabling processing of projects as large as entire cities
Integrated with other Bentley software	Ensures seamless workflow and interoperability across different software platforms, enhancing productivity.
Cloud-based service	Leverages parallel processing, GPU computing, and multi-core computing for faster production.

ContextCapture Limitations

While it handles large-scale datasets, terabytes of input imagery could be a challenge.
Despite concerted efforts to create an intuitive user interface, first-time users might face a steep learning curve.

Use Cases for ContextCapture

Use Case 1: Infrastructure Development and Urban planning

For extensive infrastructure projects and urban planning, ContextCapture facilitates the generation of incredibly accurate 3D models, revolutionizing the way cities are designed and build.

Use Case 2: Cultural Heritage and Tourism

By preserving and digitizing cultural heritage sites in 3D, ContextCapture significantly contributes to the tourism industry.

Use Case 3: Asset Management and Facility Operations

ContextCapture is an efficient tool for visualizing and managing industrial facilities, leveraging 3D modeling for more precise asset management.

Reality Capture

Developed by Capturing Reality, a Slovak company made its mark on the tech world with the incredible RealityCapture (RC). Launched in 2016, RC sets a high bar in 3D modeling with its diverse applications that span cultural heritage, gaming, surveying, VFX, VR, and more.

Reality Capture Top Features

Image registration: RC skillfully aligns images automatically for the best 3D outcome.
Unmatched Performance: Its optimized design ensures the processing time doubles only when the input doubles, ideal for managing extensive projects.
Out-of-core meshing, coloring and texturing: This feature provides significant performance improvement.
SDK and Command line operation: Promises greater compatibility and control over the process.

Feature	Advantage
Georeferencing and Measurement	Integrates geographic data for accurate mapping and objective analysis.
Software UI	Reminiscent of video editing software, making it user-friendly and familiar.
Exports	Direct exports to video, still image, or 3D sharing platforms like SketchFab.

Reality Capture Downsides

Limited Nvidia graphics card support, which could restrict users with particular hardware settings.
Processing results are presented as point clouds that might require further enhancement for precise results on hard surfaces.

Reality Capture Pricing

RealityCapture offers a flexible pricing model based on usage. For every 3,500 credits, users are charged just $10, allowing businesses to scale as per their photogrammetry needs. For users requiring high configurations, additional licenses can be procured.

Reality Capture Use Cases

Use case 1 – Gaming

The gaming industry can bring their creations to life, thanks to RealityCapture’s ability to create detailed, textured 3D models. Game developer DICE, for example, had significantly benefited from integrating RealityCapture into their workflow.

Use Case 2 – Architecture

Architects can use RealityCapture’s texturing and georeferencing features to visualize potential settings for buildings and houses, enabling more effective design and client communication.

Use Case 3 – VR

By weaving detailed 3D models into virtual reality settings, RealityCapture allows VR developers to create deeply immersive and realistic environments.

Regard3D

Welcome to the world of Regard3D, an open-source structure-from-motion application that elevates 3D models creation. Using multi-angle photos and a range of functionalities, it is a top-tier tool in the realm of 3D Graphics & Modeling.

Regard3D Top Features

Excellent ease of use, rating 4/5
Robust functionalities including point cloud and triangulation
Supports import of JPEG, PNG, TIFF, and RAW files
Exports 3D models in various formats including OBJ and PLY
Voxel and point pattern recognition within advanced features

Unique Features	Description
Automatic Image Alignment	Enables automatic alignment of images, greatly streamlining your workflow.
Time-lapse Sequences	Create stunning animations and time-lapse sequences of models.
Result Manipulation	Allows for the injection of small structure for generating finer details.

Regard3D Downsides

Limited community support
Lack of contact options on website
Windows installation straightforward, but Linux binaries are absent
Requirements include 64-bit OS and OpenGL-enabled graphics card

Regard3D Pricing

Everything about Regard3D is developed with the users in mind, including its pricing. As an open-source application, this robust 3D modeling tool is available at no cost to its users.

Regard3D Use Cases

Use case 1 – Projects like building in MinGW

Unleash your creativity with Regard3D for MinGW projects. The software’s advanced features, 3D modeling capabilities, and result manipulation tools make it an unbeatable choice.

Use case 2 – Digitization projects

Riding the wave of digital revolution? Regard3D is your ally for converting physical objects into digital 3D models using photos from different angles.

Use case 3 – Academic research

Empower your research using Regard3D’s data synthesis. From accurate 3D models to point cloud and triangulation, revolutionize how you approach data.

Meshilicious

Enter the realm of SFF cases with Meshilicious, a masterstroke in engineering from Ssupd (Sunny Side Up Design), a joint collaboration between Lian Li and NCASE.

Meshilicious Top Features

Compact form factor with a capacity of 14.6 litres.
Setting the benchmark with large 4-slot GPUs compatibility up to 366mm in length.
Preinstalled with an ultra-efficient 240MM Water Cooler.
Ultimate performance guaranteed with up to 64GB of DDR4 Memory.

Dimension	245 x 166.4 x 360mm (L x W x H)
CPU options	i7-12700k or i5-13600k
Storage design	Dual-storage using M.2 SSD and a 2.5inch HDD or SSD in combination

Meshilicious Limitations

Potential for custom modification is there, but repositioning components like radiator and PSU may be tricky.

Meshilicious Use Cases

Use case 1 – Gaming enthusiasts

Those who crave power and performance in their gaming setup without compromising on space will find Meshilicious to be a perfect choice thanks to its 4-slot GPUs compatibility, capable of housing the RTX 3090 10GB graphics card.

Use case 2 – Power users

For users requiring heavy-duty performance for applications like 3D modeling or server workloads, Meshilicious offers up to 64GB of DDR4 Memory, making it an ideal machine.

Use case 3 – Custom PC builders

The design lovers and custom PC builders who value aesthetics as much as performance, Meshilicious offers flexibility and potential for customization with distinctive RGB illumination and potential mainboard modifications.

COLMAP

Say hello to COLMAP, a top-tier alternative to VisualSFM and CMPMVS, providing end-to-end image-based 3D reconstructions with a user-friendly interface across all major platforms: Linux, Mac, and Windows.

COLMAP Top Features

It excels at preserving detail and performs better with higher resolution images.
Their color mesh reconstruction process is faster than CMPMVS.
COLMAP is proficient at smoothing featureless surfaces.
It is licensed under the GNU General Public License, ensuring full source code availability and collaborative improvements.
Allows for both graphical and command-line interface interactions.

Additional Features	Benefits
Applies colors to each vertex during meshing	Provides detailed color output to your 3D models
Runs effectively on CUDA compatible graphics card	Ensures smooth and fast functioning for high-quality outputs
Allows for image undistortion and dense reconstruction	Enhances accuracy and quality of the 3D models

COLMAP Downsides

Primarily caters to users with some coding experience due to its command-line interface offering.
Learning curve might be steep for beginners.

COLMAP Pricing

COLMAP is an open-source platform making it entirely free for users. However, contributions and enhancements from the community are greatly appreciated and encouraged.

COLMAP Use Cases

Use Case 1: High-Resolution Imaging

If you’re dealing with high-resolution images and looking for software capable of preserving detailed features,COLMAP is your go-to solution.

Use Case 2: Fast 3D Reconstruction

Need for speed? COLMAP provides faster color mesh reconstruction compared to its counterparts.

Use Case 3: Cross-Platform Compatibility

For those looking for a tool that offers compatibility across Linux, Mac, and Windows platforms, COLMAP ticks all the boxes.

PolyCam

A cutting-edge 3D scanning application, PolyCam comes with an extensive suite of features for iOS, Android, and web users. Crafted by PolyCam Inc., this tool leverages the power of LiDAR scanning, photogrammetry, and 360-degree panorama capture for an immersive experience in the world of Augmented Reality (AR).

PolyCam Top Features

State-of-the-art LiDAR scanning and photo mode for detailed, accurate 3D captures.
AI-enhanced Room Mode feature for generating interactive floor plans and furniture placement.
360-degree panorama capture system powered by generative AI model Stability AI’s Stable Diffusion.
Video making feature, offering various modes like Orbit, Path, Custom for enriched representations.
Apple’s Object Capture technology for efficient photogrammetry processing.
Supports precision measurement with inch-level accuracy.

Collaborative editing & sharing feature	Community platform for exploring models
Drone mapping support	Advanced export formats in Pro edition
3D models compatible with Blender, Cinema4D, Unity, Unreal	Room Mode & Teams feature for enhanced user convenience

PolyCam Downsides

Captures can appear black on mobile web browsers if texture larger than 4K.
Android version lacks Photo Mode, implementation expected soon
LiDAR capability currently restricted to iPhone 12 Pro and higher models, and 2020+ iPad Pro only

PolyCam Pricing

The Pro edition of PolyCam is available at a monthly rate of $14.99 or annually at $79.99. This edition unlocks advanced export formats and allows unlimited Photo Mode captures.