For professionals seeking streamlined, user-friendly 3D scanning, Polycam outshines Reality Capture. Ideal for designers, filmmakers, and architects, it leverages leading-edge technologies such as LiDAR and Object Capture.
Key Differences Between Polycam and Reality Capture
- Interface: Polycam features an approachable, app-based user interface, while Reality Capture caters to a more technical audience with its software-like UI.
- Scanning Technologies: Polycam offers LiDAR scanning and photogrammetry. Reality Capture utilizes unordered photos or laser scans for 3D model creation.
- Features: Polycam provides AI-based 360-degree capture, AR viewing, and collaborative editing features. Reality Capture offers image registration, georeferencing, and inspection capabilities.
- Pricing: Polycam adopts a subscription model, while Reality Capture operates on a credit-based system.
| Comparison | Polycam | RealityCapture |
|---|---|---|
| Product Type | 3D Scanning App | 3D Computer Graphics Software |
| Key Features | 3D capture, 360 Capture, LiDAR, Room Mode, Collaborative Editing, Measurement Tool | Image Registration, Calibration, Polygon Mesh Calculation, Texturing, Georeferencing |
| Application Areas | Contracting, Design, Architecture, VFX, Filmmaking, 3D Art | Heritage, Gaming, Full Body Scanning, Surveying, Mapping, VFX, VR |
| Platform Compatibility | iOS 15.2+, Android 8.0+, Web | Windows 7/8/8.1/10 (64bit) |
| Collaboration | Polycam for Teams | Command Line Operation, Software Development Kit Available |
| Sophisticated Technology | Apple’s Object Capture, LiDAR | Out-of-core Meshing, Coloring and Texturing |
| Pricing | $14.99/month for Pro Edition | $10 per 3,500 credits |
| Export Options | Various formats for Polycam Pro, Compatible with Blender, Cinema4D, Unity, Unreal | Direct to Video, Still Image, SketchFAB |
| Extra Features | Drone Mapping, Room Mode for floorplans, AI-based 360 Capture | Generates VR scenes, Textured 3D Meshes |
| Hardware Requirement | iPhone 12 Pro/Max, 2020+ iPad Pro for LiDAR | 4 CPU cores, 16 GB RAM, 386 CUDA cores |
What Is Polycam and Who’s It For?
Polycam is a dynamic 3D scanning app developed by Polycam Inc. for iOS, Android, and web. Enriched with features like LiDAR scanning, photogrammetry, and 360-degree panorama, it’s ideal for contractors, designers, artists, and filmmakers who are keen on creating scene buildings or 3D art. Polycam also suits tech-savvy architects looking for precision in their work.
Pros of Polycam
- Availability across major platforms
- Collaborative editing with sharing feature
- Advanced export options with Pro edition
Cons of Polycam
- LiDAR functionality limited to specific devices
- Textured captures may appear black on mobile web browsers if larger than 4K
- Photo Mode on Android version still under development
What Is RealityCapture and Who’s It For?
RealityCapture is a comprehensive 3D graphics software engineered by Capturing Reality. It bridges the gap between unordered photos or laser scans and 3D models seamlessly. Primarily catering to sectors like gaming, VFX, VR, mapping, and more, it also has potential applications for architects who wish to enlighten their designs with realistic 3D visualizations.
Pros of RealityCapture
- Efficient out-of-core meshing, coloring, and texturing
- Compatible with mid-range systems
- Generates virtual reality scenes and geo-referenced maps
Cons of RealityCapture
- Limited Nvidia graphics card support
- No technical support for Promo license
- Enhancements required for processing imperfections on hard surfaces
PolyCam vs RealityCapture: Pricing
The professional edition of PolyCam is available for monthly or yearly subscriptions, whereas RealityCapture uses a credit-based pricing system.
PolyCam
PolyCam Pro offers advanced feature access at a cost of $14.99/month or $79.99/year. This edition unlocks features such as advanced export formats and unlimited Photo Mode captures.
RealityCapture
RealityCapture pricing is structured around the use of credits. Every 3,500 credits cost $10, influencing the final cost based on the project’s complexity and resources used during the process.
The Verdict: PolyCam Versus Reality Capture,
In the evolving landscape of AR/VR technology, two shining contestants have emerged: PolyCam and Reality Capture. But which app should you place your bets on? Let’s dissect it, audience segment by audience segment.
Game Developers
For game developers, the spotlit choice is PolyCam. PolyCam caters well to the needs of game creators with its compatibility with platforms such as Unity and Unreal. Moreover, real-time 3D asset creation capabilities, collaboration tools, and export options offered by PolyCam revamp the game design workflow speedily and effortlessly. Reinforce your game with PolyCam’s robust AI-based features for an impressive performance.
Architects and Designers
Audaciously, we recommend Reality Capture for Architects and Designers. Its texturing capability, georeferencing, and measurement tools far outpace that of PolyCam. Overflowing with a brilliant ability to visualize future settings of buildings, Reality Capture proves to be a formidable tool for architectural visualization or client presentation.
Visual Effects Creators
Undeniably, our nod goes to PolyCam for VFX enthusiasts. It’s ability to generate floor plans, provide accurate measurements and offering a multitude of video making features make it a beacon of choice for the industry’s creators. PolyCam’s Object Capture technology further aids in generating high-quality 3D models for creating staggering visual effects.
Determined by its undiluted focus on professional applications and future integrations planned with Unreal Engine, Reality Capture edges out for experienced professionals looking for precise tools. Still, with a panoramic selection of features that include AI-based systems and flexible offerings, PolyCam reigns supreme for broader applications.
