Introduction

3D scanning software is an essential tool for creating 3D models from real-life objects. These models are then used in various fields, such as gaming, architecture, manufacturing, and engineering. With the help of 3D scanning software, you can create precise and accurate models with ease. In this article, we’ll take a look at the best 3D scanner software available on the market today.

MeshLab

MeshLab is an open-source 3D scanner software that is used to process and edit 3D meshes. It’s free to use and can handle various file formats such as STL, PLY, OBJ, and 3DS. MeshLab provides a range of editing tools, such as smoothing, sculpting, and remeshing. This software also allows users to export models in various formats and create 3D models from point clouds.

Pros:

• Free to use
• Supports multiple file formats
• Provides a range of editing tools
• Allows exporting models in various formats
• Supports creating 3D models from point clouds

Cons:

• Not as user-friendly as other software
• Steep learning curve

Price: Free

Best for: Users who want a free and open-source 3D scanning software with advanced editing tools.

3DReshaper

3DReshaper is a powerful 3D scanning software that provides a range of tools for processing, analyzing, and editing 3D point clouds. It supports various file formats such as LAS, XYZ, and PTS. 3DReshaper also provides tools for aligning point clouds, creating surfaces, and measuring distances and volumes. This software also allows users to export models in various formats and create 3D models from point clouds.

Pros:

• Provides a range of tools for processing, analyzing, and editing 3D point clouds
• Supports various file formats
• Provides tools for aligning point clouds, creating surfaces, and measuring distances and volumes
• Allows exporting models in various formats
• Supports creating 3D models from point clouds

Cons:

• Expensive
• Requires a powerful computer to run smoothly

Price: Starts at $2,025

Best for: Professional users who require a powerful 3D scanning software with advanced tools.

Artec Studio

Artec Studio is a popular 3D scanning software that is used for creating accurate 3D models from real-life objects. It supports various Artec 3D scanners and provides tools for processing, editing, and exporting 3D models. Artec Studio provides a range of editing tools, such as smoothing, hole filling, and texture mapping. This software also allows users to export models in various formats and create 3D models from point clouds.

Pros:

• User-friendly interface
• Provides a range of editing tools
• Allows exporting models in various formats
• Supports creating 3D models from point clouds
• Supports various Artec 3D scanners

Cons:

• Expensive
• Limited file format support

Price: Starts at $1,690

Best for: Professional users who require a user-friendly 3D scanning software with advanced editing tools.

Sketchfab

Sketchfab is a web-based 3D scanning software that allows users to upload and share 3D models online. It provides tools for processing and editing 3D models, such as texture mapping and lighting adjustments. Sketchfab also allows users to export models in various formats and create 3D models from point clouds.

Pros:

• Easy to use
• Allows sharing 3D models online
• Provides tools for processing and editing 3D models
• Allows exporting models in various formats
• Supports creating 3D models from point clouds

Cons:

• Limited editing tools compared to other software
• Requires an internet connection

Price: Starts at $9 per month

Best for: Users who want an easy-to-use 3D scanning software with the ability to share and embed 3D models online.

Agisoft Metashape

Agisoft Metashape is a professional 3D scanning software that provides a range of tools for creating accurate 3D models from real-life objects. It supports various file formats such as JPEG, TIFF, and RAW. Agisoft Metashape also provides tools for aligning photos, creating 3D models from photos, and measuring distances and volumes. This software also allows users to export models in various formats and create 3D models from point clouds.

Pros:

• Powerful and versatile
• Supports various file formats
• Provides tools for aligning photos, creating 3D models from photos, and measuring distances and volumes
• Allows exporting models in various formats
• Supports creating 3D models from point clouds

Cons:

• Expensive
• Requires a powerful computer to run smoothly

Price: Starts at $179 per month

Best for: Professional users who require a powerful and versatile 3D scanning software with advanced tools.

Comparison Table

Here’s a comparison table that summarizes the pros and cons of each 3D scanning software:

Conclusion

Choosing the right 3D scanning software depends on your specific needs and budget. Free software like MeshLab can provide advanced editing tools, but may have a steep learning curve. Professional software like 3DReshaper and Agisoft Metashape are more expensive but offer powerful tools for creating accurate 3D models. Artec Studio offers a user-friendly interface and supports various Artec 3D scanners. Sketchfab is an easy-to-use web-based software that allows users to share and embed 3D models online. Ultimately, the best 3D scanning software for you will depend on your specific needs and budget.