Explore 12 Top COLMAP Alternatives for 2024

COLMAP is an image-based 3D reconstruction software that offers end-to-end solutions for both graphical and command-line interfaces. Utilizing structure-from-Motion and Multi-View Stereo methodologies, it generates color mesh reconstructions efficiently, preserving detail with high-resolution images. It runs on major platforms, is licensed under GNU General Public License, and welcomes contributions from a broad community.

Top COLMAP alternatives for 2024

Exploring alternatives to COLMAP, you can consider Meshroom, Metashape, Pix4D, Recap, 3DF Zephyr, PhotoScan, WebODM, Zephyr, Regard3D, Meshilicious, Reality Capture, PolyCam, and other innovative tools.

Meshroom

An open-source solution, Meshroom is a robust 3D reconstruction software grounded in the AliceVision framework. Notably, it’s a collaborative project arising from the synergic efforts of academia and industry, marked by milestones such as the release of the open source SfM pipeline, openMVG in 2013, followed by a series of EU project collaborations. Meshroom is tailored for integration into render farm systems, caters to Windows and OSX/Linux users, and provides traction in the 3D reconstruction space with its augmented and live reconstructions modes.

Meshroom Top Features

AliceVision Framework: Ensures robust 3D reconstruction and camera tracking algorithms.
Render Farm Integration: Designed for seamless integration into render farm systems.
Customization: Allows customization for studio pipeline.
Various Tools and Plugins: Includes Blender, Maya, Houdini plugins, CCTag library, PopSIFT.
Real-time 3D Capture: Targeted towards real-time 3D capture using Microsoft Kinect or Asus’s Xtion Pro Live.

Feature	Benefit
Large-Scale Extended Photogrammetry	Facilitates large-scale projects like CT scanned human body.
Various Input Methods	Accepts still images and video inputs, albeit with lower quality for the latter.

Meshroom Limitations

Publication Requirement: If used for publication, it demands citation.
Coating Requirement: Glossy or transparent objects must be coated with powder/flour/chalk spray or painters tape for optimal results.

Meshroom Pricing

As an open-source platform, Meshroom is accessible to all, free of charge.

Meshroom Use Cases

Use Case 1: 3D Printing & Scanning

Meshroom’s trustworthy algorithms and diverse input methods streamline the digital rendering process pivotal for 3D printing and scanning.

Use Case 2: Medicine

For medical use, Meshroom’s large-scale extended photogrammetry enables detailed rendering of CT scanned human bodies.

Use Case 3: Augmented and Virtual Reality

In AR and VR applications, Meshroom’s real-time 3D capture supports the creation of immersive and interactive virtual environments.

Metashape

Unleash the power of your creativity with Metashape. Brought to life by Agisoft, this photogrammetry application helps you breathe life into 2D or 3D models using little more than a handful of images.

Metashape Top Features

Cross-Platform Efficiency: Process with equal ease on Windows, Linux, and MacOS.
Dark Mode UI: Refreshed interface now includes the coveted dark mode.
3D Model Creation: Build detailed 3D models using depth maps.
Multiple Export Formats: Compatible with applications such as Meshlab, Cloudcompare, Sketchfab and capable of exporting in formats like .obj, .pdf, and .stl.
Cloud Dataset Processing: Cloud computing time for processing can be purchased directly from the software.

Feature	Description
Virtual Desktop Compatibility	no matter where you are, your preferred workflow is always with you.
Single Camera Mode	ideal for projects demanding traditional 3D modeling.
Automatic Mesh Refinement	Improvements happen during processing for most refined 3D models.

Metashape Limitations

High accuracy processing times could extend between 9 to 19+ hours.
Texture building may add an additional layer of tasks to your 3D modeling process.
Recommended usage of markers for image alignment might not sit well with all users.

Metashape Pricing

Metashape comes with two editions. The standard version is priced at $179 for a perpetual license, while the Professional version costs $3499. An educational discount is available for only $59.

Metashape Use Cases

Use case 1

Perfect companion for those working in GIS and cultural heritage documentation. Helps recreate structures and topographies with stunning realism.

Use case 2

A VFX producer’s dream come true. Build intricate 3D models, make your visuals come alive with cinematic flair.

Use case 3

A boon for indirect object measurement. Process vast data-sets, get precise models, perfect for both academic research and industrial application.

Reality Capture

RealityCapture is a renowned 3D computer graphics software developed by Capturing Reality. Pioneered in 2016, it takes the center stage in fields from gaming and VR to cultural heritage and VFX, by creating high-quality, seamless 3D models from unordered photos or laser scans.

Reality Capture Top Features

Linear processing: the input doubles as the processing time doubles.
Out-of-core meshing, coloring, and texturing: a feature that ensures loss-free performance.
Integration with Unreal Engine: a step taken after its acquisition by Epic Games in 2021.
Generates virtual reality scenes, textured 3D meshes, orthographic projections, and georeferenced maps from images/laser scans.

Feature	Description
Image registration and calibration	Ensures precise 3D modeling from unordered photographs.
Polygon mesh calculation	Helps in the accurate formation of 3D images.
Georeferencing	Makes accurate location-based modeling possible.

Reality Capture Limitations

Processing results in point clouds which may require further enhancement for hard surfaces.
Support for Nvidia graphics cards is limited.
The software is licensed only up to 32 CPU cores and 3 GPU cards. Additional licenses are needed for higher configurations.

Reality Capture Pricing

RealityCapture operates on a credits system. Its pricing is set at $10 per 3,500 credits. It should be noted that for promo licenses there is a maximum limit of usage for 2500 photos and it excludes technical support.

Reality Capture Use Cases

Use case 1: Gaming

Game developers, such as DICE, rely on RealityCapture for its ability to create seamless 3D models and its integration into their workflow. The smooth integration enables a more efficient and streamlined game development process.

Use case 2: Architectural Visualization

Architects can leverage RealityCapture to visualize the future settings of buildings or houses. This facilitates the process of design or client presentations, thereby empowering professionals in the field.

Use case 3: Cultural Heritage Preservation

The photogrammetry capabilities of RealityCapture can be instrumental in the preservation and documentation of cultural heritage sites. It allows for the creation of faithful and detailed 3D reproductions of artifacts or buildings, vital for the study and preservation of cultural heritage.

PolyCam

Boasting as one of the formidable 3D scanning apps for iOS, Android, and web, PolyCam by PolyCam Inc. brings AR\VR tech to your fingertips, making LiDAR scanning, photogrammetry, and 360-degree panoramas a cinch.

PolyCam Top Features

3D capture for interactive scene building, architectural design, and VR experiences.
Next-gen LiDAR Scanning, ideal for accurate augmented reality overlays.
Revolutionary AI-assisted 360 Photo Capture, bringing virtual tours to life.
Collaborative editing, through seamless sharing functionalities.
Integrated measurement tool sporting inch-level precision.

Apple’s Object Capture technology	For unsurpassed photogrammetry processing
Room Mode feature	Generates interactive floor plans and furniture placement
PolyCam for Web	Access even without an Android/iOS device

PolyCam Limitations

LiDAR functionality necessitates devices with a LiDAR sensor, such as iPhone 12 Pro series and 2020+ iPad Pro
Lack of Photo Mode on Android, although rollout is anticipated soon
Potential 3D model visibility issues on mobile web browsers if texture exceeds 4K

PolyCam Pricing

PolyCam does offer a free version, but to unlock advanced export formats and unlimited Photo Modes, the Pro edition is recommended, priced at $14.99/month or $79.99/year.

PolyCam Use Cases

For Architects and Interior Designers

By harnessing PolyCam’s Room Mode feature, professionals can create interactive floor plans and stage furnishings in real-time.

For Contractors and VFX Professionals

PolyCam’s precise LiDAR scanning and measurement tools streamline site assessments and perfect digital content creation.

For Filmmakers and 3D Artists

The app’s 360-degree panorama and video options, combined with advanced export options, enrich cinematic visualizations, and 3D modeling endeavors.

Pix4D

Stitching pixels into a vivid tapestry of understanding, Pix4D shines as a beacon in the world of drone mapping and photogrammetry software. Inspired in Switzerland and expanded around the globe, Pix4D orchestrates a symphony of geo-referenced images into 2D mosaics, 3D models, and point clouds.

Pix4D Top Features

Pix4Dmapper: A maestro in transformation, converting images into precise 2D maps and 3D models.
Varied Applications: Catering to a plethora of industries with the power of auto-conversion using the Desktop.
Customer Interaction: Personal customer support and enlightening learning resources at your disposal.

Pix4Dreact	Pix4Dcapture
Tailored for public safety and emergency response sectors, crafting insightful 2D maps	An esteemed flight planning mobile app for efficient mapping and 3D modeling.
Ensures quick assistance in emergency situations	Provides free drone flight for image acquisition with Pix4D software integration

Pix4D Downsides

Limited refunds: Cancellations do not receive refunds.
Billing cycle constraints: Subscription modifications are reflected only at the end of the cycle.

Pix4D Pricing

A blend of flexibility and commitment, Pix4D operates on a monthly renewal basis. Payment can be accomplished via credit card, PayPal, and wire transfer for substantial amounts. Subscriptions are alterable and can be cancelled from the user account prior to renewal, without the provision for refunds.

Pix4D Use Cases

Professional Geospatial Applications

For professionals in geospatial realms, Pix4D offers precision in georeferenced 2D mosaics and 3D models for analytical insights.

Emergency Response

When every second counts, Pix4Dreact assists emergency responders with swift generation of 2D maps.

Industry Specific Applications

Pix4D caters to multiple industries with unique needs, from construction to agriculture, by converting images into usable data.

Recap

Dwelling amidst the constellation of Autodesk’s suite, ReCap is a comprehensive tool for designers and engineers and equips them with exceptional capabilities to capture detailed models of real-world entities. It opens up a universe of high-precision GPS technology and integration with powerful Autodesk platforms. Simultaneously, it is supported by advanced algorithms thereby making it an impressive COLMAP alternative.

Recap Top Features

Superior 3D photo reconstruction accuracy powered by high-grade GPS technology.
Efficient integration with platforms like Autodesk Drive, Autodesk Docs, and BIM 360 Docs.
Customizable import settings and data filtering capacity.
The vision of ReCap Pro in processing, cleaning, and visualizing large sets of data from laser scans.
Annotation feature that doesn’t alter the original file, paired with easy edits through bounding box function.

Feature	Benefit
Additional Storage	RSimply put
ReCap Connect Partnership Program	Raises a platform for businesses to create bespoke applications.
ReCap Photo	Provides 3D Reality Capture capabilities through Photogrammetry.

Recap Limitations

Lack of local processing support in ReCap Photo, emphasizing solely on cloud processing.
High cost for processing objects under 300 photos on ReCap Photo, causing potential users to reconsider their choice.

Recap Pricing

Plunging into the financial sphere of ReCap, Autodesk allots 25GB of storage and 50 cloud credits for ReCap 360 projects with the inclusion in Autodesk Design Suites. However, there is an added cost for objects under 300 photos on ReCap Photo, amounting to $12 / €13.80 – which might restrain some users given its high costs.

Recap Use Cases

Use case 1 – Designers

ReCap merges technology and art, equipping designers with a detailed 3D representation of their projects, ensuring the generation of accurate models and fostering creativity at its best.

Use case 2 – Engineers

As Engineers break new grounds with their innovative designs, ReCap offers them a chance to visualize, process and clean large data sets, thus enhancing their efficiency and technical prowess.

Use case 3 – Third-party developers

Lighting the path for third-party developers, ReCap provides a base via its Connect Partnership Program where specific applications can be developed using the ReCap Photo Web API, thus extending the technological horizon.

3DF Zephyr

Enter the powerful realm of 3D modeling with 3DF Zephyr, a versatile photogrammetry software by 3Dflow. Designed to automate the 3D model reconstruction process from photos, it leverages in-house technology to bring a complete pipeline from camera orientation to texture generation phase.

3DF Zephyr Top Features

Multi-GPU support for faster performance
Supports various camera sensors, drones and laser scanners
Comprehensive toolset from photogrammetry to laser scans
True orthophotos, Digital Terrain and Surface models creation
Measuring and exporting features in viewer’s file format of choice

Strong auto-masking tool	Capable of speedy capturing process for motion capture
Ground control points scaling	Advanced technology developed in-house
Generation of normal maps	Enhanced texture packing

3DF Zephyr Downsides

Limited photo limit and single NVIDIA GPU support on the Free version
Editing tools are limited on Free and Lite versions
The application works mainly on Windows, limited Linux support with Wine

3DF Zephyr Pricing

The 3DF Zephyr software is available in four different versions: Free, Lite, Pro, and Aerial. The Lite version, with unlimited image processing and dual NVIDIA GPU support is available at €199.00 + VAT, while the Pro version, with full editing tools, processing and exporting capabilities comes at €4200.00 + VAT, but is also available as a monthly subscription at €250.00 + VAT.

3DF Zephyr Use Cases

Hobbyists and Enthusiasts

3DF Zephyr notably stands out for meeting the photogrammetry needs of hobbyists and enthusiasts. With its Free version, learners and enthusiasts alike can explore the basics of 3D modeling.

Professional 3D modelers

In the professional setting, 3DF Zephyr’s Pro version offers full toolkits enabling creation and editing of detailed 3D models for advanced architectural, engineering or gaming outputs.

Laser scanning applications

With integrated support for laser scanning, professionals in geographical surveying or laser tracking can leverage the software’s strengths in scaling via ground control points, making the Pro version a solid investment.

PhotoScan

Experience the evolution of photo scanning with PhotoScan, a revolutionary app developed by Google. Launched in 2018, this robust application turns your physical photos into high-definition digital scans with a snap!

Best Features of PhotoScan

Top-Notch Image Enhancement: Incorporates AI technology, image recognition, and enhancement algorithms for optimum image quality.
Time Saver: Easily accommodates extensive collections, drastically reducing scanning time.
Platform Agnostic: Designed for both Android and iOS users.
Simple Interface: Extremely user-friendly, simple, and intuitive interface.
Perspective Correction: Automatically crops images and keeps orientation intact during scanning.

Unique Feature	Description
Glare-Free Scanning	Outsmart glare with PhotoScan. Generate clean images, free from distortions and glare.
Smart Resolution	Capture images at 72 pixels per inch, ideal for online sharing.
Integrated with Google Photos	Automatically save, edit, organize, and share your scanned images through Google Photos.

PhotoScan limitations

Output quality is highly dependent on phone camera’s quality and light environment.
Scanning can be slow in environments with glare.

PhotoScan Pricing

Good news folks! PhotoScan is free! That’s right, priceless moments captured in high quality digital scans at no cost.

PhotoScan Use Cases

Personal Archiving

Preserve your personal memories in superior digital quality with the ease of this app. Keep hold of those cherished memories!

Professional Settings

Ever wondered how museums and historical societies maintain their photo archives? Here’s your answer, PhotoScan!

Educational Purposes

Bring education to life with high-definition digital images. With PhotoScan, classroom learning just got an exciting makeover!

WebODM

Embarking on a voyage into the mesmerizing realm of 3D graphics and modeling, we introduce you to the WebODM. This commendable toolkit is the progeny of OpenDroneMap, and it has been weaving magic in the field of open-source photogrammetry since its release in 2013.

WebODM Top Features

Process aerial imagery into splendid maps and robust 3D models
An all-encompassing service daemon setup specifically designed for Linux operating systems
Exceptional compatibility that allows this toolkit to run natively on Windows, MacOS, and Linux
Automated installer available for Windows and MacOS users ensuring seamless operation
Efficient storage with Docker volumes for user-friendly backup and restore
Integration capabilities with NodeODM for parallel processing, enhancing productivity
Provision for resetting passwords, managing plugins, and troubleshooting common issues

Unique Aspect	Implication
Bottom-up approach for feature development	End-user centric enhancements aligning with on-ground realities
Multiple communication channels for user queries and community interaction	Knowledge generation and resolution of queries in a collaborative manner

WebODM Limitations

Lack of an implicit production system ideally suited for all user types
Requires familiarity with specific languages – Python, C++, JavaScript, Shell, Go for optimized usage

WebODM Pricing

One of the crowning glories of WebODM is its unfettered accessibility. This stalwart toolkit is an open-source diamond in the tech realm, freely distributed on GitHub, ensuring everyone can participate in its evolving journey.