Metashape vs PolyCam – Which Has a Wider Reach?

If you’re a professional needing meticulous 3D models and advanced processing options, opt for Metashape. However, for more casual, on-the-go 3D capture, particularly those desiring LiDAR scanning and AR viewing, Polycam is an accessible choice.

Key Differences Between Metashape and Polycam

• Metashape can process on Windows, Linux, macOS. Polycam is a mobile app for Android, iOS, web.
• Metashape’s Professional version is $3499, while the Pro edition of Polycam is $14.99/month or $79.99/year.
• Polycam uses Apple’s LiDAR technology and offers an AR viewing option, features absent in Metashape.
• The applications of Metashape are a bit more technical like GIS and cultural heritage documentation. Polycam focuses on more creative applications such as interior design and VFX.
• Polycam is more beginner-friendly with features such as Room Mode and collaborative editing, unlike Metashape which mandates some knowledge of photogrammetry.
• Exporting formats in Metashape are more diverse with .obj, .pdf, .stl, and others. Polycam offers advanced export formats in its Pro edition.

Comparison	Metashape by Agisoft	Polycam
Application	2D or 3D models from images	3D scanning app for iOS, Android, web
Used In	GIS, cultural heritage documentation, VFX production	Contractors, interior designers, architects, VFX, filmmaking, 3D art, scene building
Platform	Windows, Linux, MacOS	iOS, Android, Web
Pricing	Professional $3499, Standard $179 for a perpetual license	Pro edition at $14.99/month or $79.99/year
Unique Features	Building detailed 3D models from depth maps, Processing times improved, Workflow dropdown	LiDAR scanning, Room Mode feature, 360-degree panorama capture, Polycam for Teams, Community platform
Export Formats	.obj, .pdf, .stl, glTF, X3D	Depends upon Plan, Polycam Pro offers advanced formats
Compatibility	Meshlab, Cloudcompare, Sketchfab	Blender, Cinema4D, Unity, Unreal
Processing Times	High accuracy could take from 9 hours to 19+	Depends upon device and capture mode
Scan Management	Single Camera mode for traditional 3D modeling.	PolyCam for Teams provides content, user management tools
Supports	Virtual Desktop Compatibility	Drone Mapping

What Is Metashape by Agisoft and Who’s It For?

Metashape by Agisoft is a leading photogrammetry application, primarily designed to turn images into detailed 2D or 3D models. The application is widely used in GIS, cultural heritage documentation, VFX production, and indirect object measurements. It is a cross-platform solution, available on Windows, Linux, and MacOS, with pricing options to accommodate a range of budgets, from standard to professional needs. Furthermore, it offers educational discounts, making it accessible for budding technologists.

Pros of Metashape by Agisoft

• Highly detailed 3D model creation from depth maps
• Wide range of texture mapping options
• Cross-platform compatibility
• Professional and standard editions available
• Educational discount options

Cons of Metashape by Agisoft

• High processing times for accuracy
• Limited features in the standard edition
• Relatively high price for the professional version

What Is Polycam and Who’s It For?

Polycam is a comprehensive 3D scanning app designed for a broad spectrum of creative and technical professionals. Polycam Inc, the creator of the application, offers the solution on iOS, Android, and web platforms. With its LiDAR scanning, photogrammetry, and 360-degree panorama capture capabilities, the tool is well-suited for contractors, interior designers, architects, filmmakers, 3D artists, and scene builders. The application also incorporates a collaborative editing feature allowing for enhanced teamwork and synergy on projects.

Pros of Polycam

• Versatility with multiple modes like 3D capture and LiDAR scanning
• Features designed for collaborative editing
• Room Mode feature for interactive floor plan generation
• Compatibility across iOS, Android, and web platforms
• Measurement tool with inch-level accuracy

Cons of Polycam

• LiDAR only on iPhone 12 Pro and higher
• Texture larger than 4K may present issues on mobile web browsers
• Pro edition required for advanced export formats

Metashape vs Polycam: Pricing

The pricing models of Metashape and Polycam revolve around upfront and subscription-based payments respectively.

Metashape

Metashape offers two perpetual license versions: a Professional version for $3499 and a Standard version for $179. An educational discount is offered with licenses available at a reduced rate of $59. Metashape supports extensive GPU usage and poses no limitations on the number of photos processed.

Polycam

Polycam operates on a subscription basis. The Pro edition of the software can be accessed at a subscription rate of $14.99 per month or a yearly subscription amounting to $79.99. The Pro edition offers advantages including advanced export formats and unlimited Photo Mode captures.

The Ultimate Decision: Metashape or Polycam?

Settling the score between Metashape and PolyCam involves addressing specific needs of diverse audience segments. It’s time to unveil the secret.

Digital Artists and Game Developers

For depth and detail, Metashape takes the crown, thanks to its high-level accuracy and vast export formats, aiding in flawless integration with apps like Meshlab or Cloudcompare. However, for those seeking quick and painless prototyping, Polycam might win the race with easy 3D capture and expedient export formats for common platforms like Blender and Unity.

GIS Professionals

The enhanced focus on aerial information makes Metashape the rightful choice for GIS professionals. Its capabilities of accurate modelling terrains or base reliefs stand unrivalled. However, if real-time collaboration and sharing are pre-eminent, consider Polycam due to its collaborative editing feature.

VFX, Filmmakers, and Architects

Polycam, with user-friendly features like Room Mode for floor plans or LiDAR scanning for accurate 3D arts, proves to be an apt companion for these segments. Offering a robust community platform to explore and share models, it fosters creativity. Yet, for large scale projects needing intricate detail, Metashape still delivers.

If you strive for precision in complex modelling, go for Metashape; its high accuracy and detailed processing outshine Polycam. However, if ease, speed and collaboration are what you seek, Polycam is your top pick, with user-friendly features and collaborative options.