3D Scanner Software for PC/Mac

What is 3D Scan Software?

3D scan software refers to digital solutions for the application of 3D scanners. While the scanners capture images of the object to be scanned via various optics and electronic systems, the software processes the resulting data, assembles it into a virtual 3D model and enables further processing. 3D scan software is available for all common operating systems – and for every application. While one software is aimed at professionals from industry and design, the other software is also suitable for less experienced private users thanks to its intuitive usability. In the following we present the most interesting software solutions in the field of 3D scanning for Windows, MacOS and Linux.

Presentation 3D Scanner Software

Software for Windows

Chargeable

Artec Studio 14

Artec Studio 14 is the latest version of the software for high-quality 3D scanning and subsequent data processing, which is particularly popular among professional users. The highlight of the new version of the software is certainly the Autopilot, an intelligent feature that takes users “by the hand” and guides them through the scanning process in a few simple steps. The advantages of the Artec Studio 14: Maximum precision, full control and absolute flexibility in use. Artec Studio 14 processes data sets with up to 500 million polygons just as reliably as the 3D scan software handles the export of 3D models to SOLIDWORKS, AutoCAD or Design X. Precise analysis of the scanned surfaces also makes 3D scans of black, shiny objects or even hair possible. Of course, the software can also be used on mobile devices, such as tablets.

Data:
– Operating system: Windows
– Price: 800 € / year
– Hardware: For the use an appropriate 3D scanner is necessary

Free of charge

ReconstructMe

ReconstructMe is a 3D scanning software for Windows that has been offered free of charge for private users since 2015 – without any restrictions! While previous free versions artificially slowed down the scanning process and inserted a watermark into the scans, the current version is available without any restrictions. Based on depth and RGB sensor combinations, ReconstruktMe transforms images into 3D models, in real time and in high quality. ReconstructMe supports all devices on which the PrimeSense company is working: Microsoft Kinect, 3D Systems Cubify 3D scanners or the PrimeSense Carmine series. The 3D reconstruction of the scanned objects is done by the graphics card of the computer used. So performance is required here. Anyone who wants to use ReconstructMe commercially has to put 180 euros on the table. An SDK license costs 600 euros.

Data:
– Operating system: Windows
– Price: Free for home users
– Hardware: For the use an appropriate 3D scanner is necessary


3D Scanner Software for MacOS

Chargeable

App name: Skanect Pro 3D Scan

Skanect Pro 3D Scan can be used to create full-color 3D models of objects, people or rooms. The software uses Microsoft Kinect or alternatively the Asus Xtion Pro Live 3D Sensor as an inexpensive, efficient 3D scanner. Within just a few minutes, Skanect creates 3D models from real scenes. The 3D information is created at up to 30 frames per second – all that is needed for the scan is to capture a series of reference points. Skanect can export to various file formats, including for further processing in Blender, Meshlab, Meshmixer or 3DStudio Max. The ease of use, optimal preparation of data for 3D printing and versatile printing options make Skanect one of the most popular software solutions for MacOs operating systems. And there is also an equivalent version for Windows

Data:
– Operating system: MacOs
– Price: 135 euros
– Hardware: A Microsoft Kinect / Asus Xtion Pro Live 3D is required for use.

Free of charge

Name of the app: Artec ScanApp

The Artec ScanApp is a new application for MacOs that makes it possible for the first time ever to capture 3D data through the in-house scanner EVA directly on a Mac. The Artec ScanApp provides an intuitive way to scan objects and further process them on the sleek, ergonomic interface. In the software, 3D scans can be merged directly in the program or exported to Windows PCs for advanced post-processing. The creation of a scan can be observed in real time, offers a new color prompter for correct 3D scanning and enables super-realistic rendering of objects. To achieve this, the geometry and texture of the 3D image are rendered realistically, with clearly delineated shapes, natural colors, and high-resolution geometry.

Data:
– Operating system: MacOs
– Price: Available free of charge as a beta version until 10.01.2020
– Hardware: Artec 3D Scanner Eva needed

3D Scanner Software for Linux

Free of charge

Horus

Horus is a cross-platform desktop solution developed in Python. Horus is used to control the scanner, handles communication, data acquisition and synchronization, as well as image processing and subsequent visualizations of the point clouds. Although Horus is developed for Linux (Ubuntu), it can also be used under Windows. Horus is divided into three workspaces – Control, Calibrate, Scan – allowing individual scanning and further processing of the acquired data. With the Wizard, Horus continues to have a step-by-step guide designed to simplify the process of calibration and scanning. The generated point cloud can be further processed with common, free programs such as Blender or MeshLab.

Data:
– Operating system: Linux
– Price: Free license, therefore free of charge
– Hardware: We recommend the combination with Ciclop, the first 3D-DIY scanner from BQ.

MakerScanner

MakerScanner is an open-source 3D scanning software that is great for use with a MakerBot or similar “build your own” 3D printers. With the MakerScanner, objects, people or faces can be scanned and further processed in software solutions such as Blender or MeshLab. The MakerScanner is especially interesting when it comes to inexpensive 3D scan solutions. If you can live with scanning accuracies of ± 1 cm, you can even use a standard webcam for scanning.

Data:
– Operating system: Linux
– Price: Free license, therefore free of charge
– Hardware: We recommend combining with a MakerBot or similar DIY scanner.

Conclusion

3D scanning software is available for every platform, every need – and every budget. While open source software such as MakerScanner is primarily aimed at the ever-growing DIY scene, Artec Studio 14, which is quite expensive at 800 euros per year, is clearly a solution for experienced professionals. Either way, the quality of the scans is now high regardless of the platform and the software can be operated with little training. A suitable lid for every pot: This is a good way to summarize the diverse range of software for Windows, MacOs and Linux.