While both PolyCam and Reality Scan leverage the power of AR and photogrammetry for 3D scanning, PolyCam stands as a more feature-rich solution, especially for professionals like interior designers, architects, and VFX artists. However, Reality Scan, with its direct Sketchfab integration, is an enticing option for game developers.
Key Differences Between PolyCam and Reality Scan
- PolyCam supports LiDAR scanning, 360-degree panorama capture, collaborative editing, while Reality Scan primarily focuses on photogrammetry.
- PolyCam is notable for its applicability across multiple professions, including contractors, interior designers, architects, VFX, and filmmaking, while Reality Scan caters principally to game development.
- Reality Scan directly exports models to Sketchfab, potentially offering a free year of Sketchfab Pro, while PolyCam provides various export options, including mesh data and blueprints, supporting applications like Blender, Cinema4D, Unity, and Unreal.
- With regard to availability across platforms, PolyCam extends its services to Android 8.0+, iOS 15.2+, iPadOS 15.2+ and Web, whilst Reality Scan is currently restricted to iOS 16.0+ with Android launch planned in 2023.
| Comparison | Polycam | RealityScan |
|---|---|---|
| Platform | iOS, Android, Web | iOS (Android planned for 2023) |
| Use Cases | Contractors, Interior Designers, Architects, VFX, Filmmaking, 3D Art, Scene Building | Game Developers, 3D Objects Design |
| Features | LiDAR Scanning, Photogrammetry, 360-degree Panorama Capture, Team Collaboration, Drone Mapping, Video Making, Measurement Tools, Room Mode | Photogrammetry, Project Library, Integration with Sketchfab, 3D Objects Design |
| AR support | Yes | TBD |
| Pricing | Pro Edition at $14.99/month or $79.99/year | Free (Potential Free Year of Sketchfab Pro) |
| Availability | Android 8.0+, iOS 15.2+, iPadOS 15.2+ | iOS 16.0+ |
| Web Support | Yes | TBD |
| System Technology | LiDAR, Photogrammetry, AI (Stable Diffusion), Apple’s Object Capture | Photogrammetry |
| 3D Model Export | Blender, Cinema4D, Unity, Unreal | Sketchfab |
| Updates | 3.2.1 (Room Model, Teams features) | TBD |
What Is Polycam and Who’s It For?
An avant-garde 3D scanning app, Polycam is iOS and Android compatible, designed by visionary creators, Polycam Inc. Offering features like LiDAR scanning, photogrammetry, and 360-degree panorama capture, it is a powerful tool that caters to contractors, interior designers, architects, VFX specialists, filmmakers, 3D artists and more. Its latest update, Polycam 3.2.1, introduced an AI-based 360 Capture system, among other advanced functionalities, infusing a tech-forward outlook into its framework.
Pros of Polycam
- Unlocks advanced features with Pro edition
- Supports drone mapping and collaborative editing.
- 360 Capture fueled by robust AI
Cons of Polycam
- Requirement of LiDAR sensor for starters
- Limitation on texture size leading to black screen on mobile web browsers
- Android version with Photo Mode still pending
What Is RealityScan and Who’s It For?
RealityScan, an application from the trailblazing Epic Games, bridges the gap between reality and the virtual world. It offers the transformative technology to scan real-life objects into highly detailed 3D models. A handy tool for creative professionals- game developers, 3D artists, and designers, it eliminates the need for scratch-level designing. Designed to perform on any iPhone or iPad, it is compatible with iOS 16.0 and above. The application is yet to make its foray into the Android universe, slated for 2023.
Pros of RealityScan
- Free to download, compatible with iOS devices
- Potential to win a free year of Sketchfab Pro
- Incorporates advanced photogrammetry technology
Cons of RealityScan
- Limited to iOS, with Android version due in 2023
- Dependent on environmental factors for photogrammetry
- May not capture fine details accurately with time-of-flight scanning
PolyCam vs RealityScan: Pricing
While Polycam offers a paid Pro edition with advanced features, RealityScan comes in as free software from Epic Games.
PolyCam
Polycam has a pricing tier for its Pro edition. A monthly subscription to the Pro edition costs $14.99, while an annual subscription is priced at $79.99. The Pro edition unlocks advanced export formats and permits unlimited captures using the Photo Mode feature, making it a valuable resource for professionals seeking extensive 3D modeling capabilities.
RealityScan
RealityScan, on the other hand, is an application developed by Epic Games that is free to download. It offers the ability to turn images into 3D models and to export these models directly to Sketchfab. Users also have a chance to attain a free year of Sketchfab Pro when using the app. Despite its robust capabilities, all features of RealityScan are accessible without any direct subscription cost, making it a cost-effective solution for individual creators and small teams.
Reality Scan or PolyCam: The Tech Verdict
The jury is in on the Reality Scan vs PolyCam duel. Your unique needs as a developer, game maker, AR/VR creator, or tech enthusiast will call the final shots. Let’s dissect this for different audience segments.
For the AR/VR Creators
The edge clearly goes to PolyCam for AR/VR creators due to the integration of LiDAR scanning, advanced photogrammetry, and the new AI-based 360 Capture system. Additionally, PolyCam’s Room Mode offers impressive interactive floor plan mapping using LiDAR, and its compatibility with the top AR devices ensures extensive outreach.
For 3D Artists
PolyCam lands another punch when it comes to fostering 3D art. It supports high-fidelity 3D model exports into top-notch professional tools such as Blender, Cinema4D, Unity, and Unreal. Plus, the innovative Object Masking feature empowers artists to capture small objects from all angles, thus enhancing the depth of exploration.
For Game Makers
RealityScan, owned by gaming giant Epic Games, wraps up this category. The profound integration with existing gaming ecosystems, coupled with the direct export to Sketchfab, gives game-makers the perfect toolkit to bring their games to life. Also, the promise of the Android roll-out broadens the future landscape.
For Independent Tech Enthusiasts
For the tech aficionados among us aiming to explore 3D scanning and enjoy an AI-driven experience, the choice swings back to PolyCam. The versatility of Polycam’s app, the 3D printing viability, and the community platform offer an unparalleled playground for tech exploration.
The verdict? Choose PolyCam if you’re a VR/AR creator, 3D artist, or tech enthusiast. If you’re making games, RealityScan will be your top pick.
