MagiScan vs Polycam
Side-by-side comparison of features, pricing, and ratings
At a glance
| Dimension | MagiScan | Polycam |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | Free tier + subscription tiers (approx $10-$30/mo); individual purchases for vertical apps | Free tier + Pro $79.79/mo or $299/yr; Team $499/yr |
| Best For | Content creators, e-commerce, medical, hobbyists wanting quick 3D models from phone camera | Architects, engineers, forensics, media creators needing precise floor plans & LiDAR scanning |
| Key Features | AI scanning, text-to-3D, facial scanning (AVA), cargo measurement (FreightSizer), orthotic scanning, AR commerce | AI photogrammetry, LiDAR scanning, floor plan generation, drone processing, Gaussian splatting, HDRI presets |
| Export Formats | OBJ, STL, FBX, PLY, USDZ, GLB, GLTF; direct to NVIDIA Omniverse, Minecraft | GLTF, OBJ, FBX, USDZ, PLY, LAS, STL, DAE, ESX, DXF |
| Platform | iOS, Android; cloud processing; vertical apps available | iOS, Android (ARCore), Web; cloud processing |
| Latest News | Positioned as easiest 3D modeling app for professionals; cited in top mobile volumetric measurement apps | HDRI lighting added (5 presets); library UI compacted; improved sync; floor plan editor drag fix |
If you need precise architectural floor plans, LiDAR-based scanning, or drone photogrammetry, Polycam is the clear choice with its professional export options and HDRI lighting. For quick, AI-driven object scanning from your phone with versatile export (including to Omniverse and Minecraft) and specialized verticals like cargo measurement, MagiScan is more accessible. Go with Polycam for accuracy and structured output; choose MagiScan for speed and ecosystem breadth.
AI-powered 3D scanning & AR ecosystem for turning real objects into editable 3D models.
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AI-powered 3D scanning, floor plans, and reality capture for mobile, drones, and teams.
Visit WebsiteWho should pick which
- Architect / EngineerPick: Polycam
Polycam's automatic floor plan generation with measurements, LiDAR scanning, and drone photogrammetry are essential for on-site capture and accurate documentation.
- Content Creator / HobbyistPick: MagiScan
MagiScan's quick AI scanning, text-to-3D, and direct export to Omniverse/Minecraft are ideal for creative projects without the need for professional precision.
- E-commerce BusinessPick: MagiScan
MagiScan's AR commerce solution (ARize) and easy product scanning help create 3D models for online stores quickly.
- Forensics / SurveyorPick: Polycam
Polycam's LiDAR scanning, point cloud exports (PLY, LAS), and floor plan editor with overlap fix provide the accuracy required for legal and survey use.
- Medical Professional (aesthetics/orthotics)Pick: MagiScan
MagiScan's dedicated facial scanning app (AVA) and orthotic scanning (Orthio) are tailored for medical applications, which Polycam does not offer.
Frequently Asked Questions
MagiScan vs Polycam: which should you choose?
If you need precise architectural floor plans, LiDAR-based scanning, or drone photogrammetry, Polycam is the clear choice with its professional export options and HDRI lighting. For quick, AI-driven object scanning from your phone with versatile export (including to Omniverse and Minecraft) and specialized verticals like cargo measurement, MagiScan is more accessible. Go with Polycam for accuracy and structured output; choose MagiScan for speed and ecosystem breadth.
Which tool is better for scanning large interiors?
Polycam is better for large interiors because of its LiDAR scanning, spatial capture, and automatic floor plan generation with measurements.
Can I export to game engines?
Both support game engine formats, but MagiScan has direct export to NVIDIA Omniverse and Minecraft block structures, making it more convenient for gaming workflows.
Which is more affordable?
MagiScan is generally more affordable, with a freemium model and lower subscription tiers, while Polycam's Pro plan is $79.79/month or $299/year.
Do they support drone photogrammetry?
Only Polycam explicitly supports drone photogrammetry processing; MagiScan does not mention drone support.
Can I use them offline?
Both rely on cloud processing for high-quality output, so offline-only use is limited. Polycam may allow some local capture, but cloud is needed for processing.
Which has more export formats?
Polycam exports to 15+ formats including LAS and DXF; MagiScan covers common ones plus direct integration to Omniverse and Minecraft.
Are they available on Android?
Both are available on Android (ARCore support) and iOS.
Which is easier for beginners?
MagiScan is considered more beginner-friendly with its simple one-click scanning and text-to-3D generation, while Polycam has a steeper learning curve for advanced features.
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Last reviewed: July 3, 2026