For precise and customized 3D modeling, Metareal is advantageous due to its flexible camera compatibility and personal branding options. However, for a comprehensive and automated suite of features, Matterport is preferred. End-users who value ease-of-use should lean towards Matterport, while creators seeking manual control and customization should consider Metareal.

Detailed comparison: Metareal vs Matterport

Key Differences Between Metareal and Matterport

  • Camera Compatibility: Metareal supports any camera, whereas Matterport integrates with 3D, 360° spherical, lidar cameras, or mobile devices.
  • Branding: Metareal offers client branding customization, a feature not mentioned for Matterport.
  • 3D Creation: Metareal allows for precise, manual 3D modeling, in contrast to Matterport’s fully automated approach using the AI platform, ‘Cortex’.
  • Processing: Matterport significantly utilizes AI for image processing, with manual processing being more prevalent in Metareal.
  • Pricing: Metareal operates on a “views” based pricing whereas Matterport pricing is based on “Active Spaces”.
  • Support: Metareal’s CEO is available for support calls. Matterport does not highlight this feature.
Comparison Metareal Matterport
Platform Type 3D virtual tour platform All-in-one platform for 3D space capture
Image Processing 360 photos used for texture map, 3D space creation precise but laborious AI Cortex processes scans, creates walkthrough, blurs individuals, turns panoramic images into 3D spaces
Minimum Requirement for Photos No minimum Device dependent
Features Floorplan, dollhouse view, flying transitions, post-processing/analytics of images, logo removal and customization of player skin Dollhouse Views, Measurement Mode, Google Street View, Guided Tours, Tags, 3D models
Device Compatibility Supports any camera Compatible with 3D cameras, 360° cameras, lidar cameras, smartphones
File Compatibility Import/Export: OBJ, FBX, SVG, DXF Creation and import of .SKX
Pricing Free in beta phase, future tiers planned. Cost tied to number of views. Plans starting from CDN $9.95/month. Pricing based on ‘Active Spaces’, varies across Free, Starter, Professional, Business, and Enterprise plans
Professional Support Option for Metareal to create 3D model, CEO available for support calls Professional scanning services available, option to hire professional technicians for 3D scans

What Is Metareal and Who’s It For?

Metareal is a leading player in the 3D virtual tour platform space, offering precise construction tools for immersive VR. Creators utilize any camera, leveraging 360 photos. Ideal for architectural pros due to the Revit compatibility and the freedom to create pre-construction tours. Free and affordably priced plans cater to those entering VR and professionals alike.

Metareal shines in allowing customization and flexibility whereas the precise manual 3D construction poses a learning curve for beginners. This solution is specifically for photographers desiring stringent control and design firms looking to demonstrate pre-construction projects.

Colorful 3D model blueprint of an architectural project on a draft table

Pros of Metareal

  • Floorplan, dollhouse view, flying transitions
  • Affordable plans coupled with flexibility in hardware use
  • Import/export capabilities with multiple files including OBJ, FBX, SVG, DXF
  • Partnerships with Realtor.com, Homes.com

Cons of Metareal

  • Potential steep learning curve for manual 3D construction
  • Currently in beta stage; future pricing uncertain

What Is Matterport and Who’s It For?

Matterport converts reality to digital twin models via an all-inclusive 3D capture platform. Its suite of features, collaboration tools, and security measures are game-changing for professionals. This platform is adaptable for anyone: a small business with a phone in hand or a multinational firm leveraging lidar cameras.

Capture quality is top-notch, thanks primarily to the AI platform, Cortex, which delivers measurements within 1% of reality. This platform is a godsend for real-estate professionals, construction planners, and anyone keen on converting physical spaces into 3D experiences.

Colorful 3D walkthrough display on a professional's smartphone screen

Pros of Matterport

  • All-in-one platform for 3D space capture
  • Accurate measurements and feature-rich experiences via Cortex
  • Flexible subscription models; compliance with top-class data protection
  • Option to order professional scanning services

Cons of Matterport

  • High performance tied to high-end camera compatibility
  • Certain features limited to specific plans

Metareal vs Matterport: Pricing

Metareal and Matterport offer differing pricing options, with Metareal currently free in its beta phase and Matterport pricing based on ‘Active Spaces’.

Metareal

Being in its beta phase, Metareal is currently available for free. However, future tiers are planned: Professional plan at CDN $9.95/month, Premium at CDN $39/month, and an Enterprise plan for larger businesses. The cost will be tied to the number of views, allowing a pay-per-use model. A free plan has also been envisioned for beginners, besides affordable options for medium and large businesses.

Matterport

Matterport’s pricing is based on ‘Active Spaces’, and these vary with features across Free, Starter, Professional, Business, and Enterprise plans. A flexible pricing model has been designed to cater to the needs of individuals, small businesses, and larger enterprises. Alongside this, professional scanning services are offered in a range of 200-700 cities depending on the subscription plan.

Metareal or Matterport – Making a Choice Worth Your Time

In the broad spectrum of modern 3D virtual touring, Metareal and Matterport assert their performance and prowess, raising a crucial question: which technology triumphs?

Photographers Branching Into 3D Virtual Tours

For photographers venturing into virtual tours, Metareal gets the nod. Its flexibility in camera compatibility and precise photo-based 3D modeling allows finer control. The labor involved might be a deterrent for some, but for those seeking precision and portraying their unique style, Metareal’s methods shine.

Pair of artists huddled around a desk, studying Metareal's interface while 360 camera sits beside them

Real Estate and Architectural Firms

For real estate and architectural firms, Matterport screams efficiency and ease-of-use. Its robust AI, Cortex, does the heavy lifting – creating comprehensive, accurate 3D models, complete with walk-throughs and object detection. Add to the mix Matterport’s integration with platforms like Google Street View, Realtor.com, etc., and you’ve got a practical solution tailored for this industry.

Real estate team huddle around a desktop, using Matterport to interact with a 3D model of a listed property

Newbies Exploring Virtual Tour Creation

Newcomers stepping into 3D creation must consider Metareal, which extends a beginner-friendly free plan and an affordable entry-level cost structure. Its CEO’s readiness for support calls speaks volumes about their commitment to assist first-timers.

Young tech enthusiast experimenting with 3D creation on Metareal

Object-Oriented Developers and 3D Animators

For those engaging in object-oriented development or complicated 3D animations, Matterport is your ally. Its APIs and SDKs integrate seamlessly into current workflows, promoting unique 3D experiences. Cordial support for SKX files and professional scanning services further cement its standing.

3D animator at his workstation, immersing himself in Matterport's environment

In terms of 3D virtual tour creation and applicability, Metareal and Matterport create their respective paradigms. For those seeking finesse and full control, Metareal prioritizes precision and flexibility, but if smooth, robust automation and extensibility are deciding factors, Matterport leads the charge.

Grant Sullivan

Content writer @ Aircada and self proclaimed board game strategist by day, AI developer by night.

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