Software Alternatives, Accelerators & Startups

Meshroom VS 3DF Zephyr

Compare Meshroom VS 3DF Zephyr and see what are their differences

Meshroom logo Meshroom

Meshroom is a free, open-source 3D Reconstruction Software based on the AliceVision framework.

3DF Zephyr logo 3DF Zephyr

Next up in my series of Photogrammetry Software Reviews — after ReMake, PhotoScan & RealityCapture — is 3DF Zephyr (including the Free version).
  • Meshroom Landing page
    Landing page //
    2023-07-27
  • 3DF Zephyr Landing page
    Landing page //
    2020-04-14

Meshroom features and specs

  • Free and Open Source
    Meshroom is available for free and the source code is open, allowing users to modify and distribute the software under the terms of the license.
  • User-Friendly Interface
    The software features an intuitive graphical user interface that makes it accessible to beginners while still offering advanced options for experienced users.
  • Integration with AliceVision
    Meshroom integrates seamlessly with AliceVision, a photogrammetric computer vision framework, ensuring high-quality and accurate 3D reconstructions.
  • Cross-Platform Support
    The software is available for multiple operating systems, including Windows and Linux, making it versatile for different user environments.
  • Customizable Workflow
    Meshroom allows users to customize the photogrammetry workflow by modifying the node-based system, providing flexibility in how reconstructions are processed.

Possible disadvantages of Meshroom

  • High System Requirements
    The software requires a powerful computer with a high-end GPU and significant RAM to efficiently process large datasets, which might be a limitation for some users.
  • Steep Learning Curve for Advanced Features
    While the basic functionalities are user-friendly, mastering advanced features and custom workflows can be challenging and may require a steep learning curve.
  • Limited Documentation
    The available documentation and tutorials are not as comprehensive as some other commercial software, which might make it harder for users to troubleshoot and fully utilize all features.
  • Long Processing Times
    Processing large datasets can take a considerable amount of time, as the software requires extensive computational resources to generate high-quality reconstructions.
  • Lack of Support for Non-Standard Cameras
    Meshroom performs best with traditional DSLR or mirrorless cameras and may not support non-standard cameras as effectively, limiting its usability in some scenarios.

3DF Zephyr features and specs

  • User-Friendly Interface
    3DF Zephyr has an intuitive interface that is relatively easy for beginners to grasp while offering advanced features for experienced users.
  • Wide Range of Tools
    The software offers various tools and features for editing and enhancing 3D models, including texture mapping, meshing, and scaling tools.
  • Frequent Updates
    3DF Zephyr receives regular updates that enhance functionality and introduce new features, ensuring the software remains current and robust.
  • Accuracy and Detail
    The software provides high accuracy and detail in the photogrammetry process, making it suitable for professional applications.
  • Support for Various File Formats
    It supports multiple file formats, allowing for easy import and export of data between different 3D software.

Possible disadvantages of 3DF Zephyr

  • High System Requirements
    The software demands significant system resources, requiring powerful hardware to run smoothly, especially for processing large datasets.
  • Steep Learning Curve for Advanced Features
    While the basic interface is user-friendly, mastering the advanced tools and features can be challenging and time-consuming.
  • Cost
    3DF Zephyr can be expensive compared to other photogrammetry software options on the market, which may be a barrier for hobbyists or small businesses.
  • Occasional Stability Issues
    Users have reported occasional crashes or stability issues, particularly when handling very large projects.

Analysis of Meshroom

Overall verdict

  • Meshroom is generally considered to be a good choice for those looking into photogrammetry, especially for users who appreciate open-source tools and require a cost-effective solution for creating detailed 3D models.

Why this product is good

  • Meshroom is a popular open-source 3D reconstruction software developed by AliceVision. It is favored for its ease of use, powerful photogrammetry capabilities, and ability to generate high-quality 3D models from photographs. Its seamless integration with other software and detailed documentation also contribute to its positive reception among users.

Recommended for

    Meshroom is recommended for hobbyists, researchers, and professionals in fields such as archaeology, architecture, and visual effects who seek an accessible and robust photogrammetry tool. It is also suitable for those with a technical background who are comfortable with open-source software.

Meshroom videos

Meshroom -- 3D Models from Photos using this Free Open Source Photogrammetry Software

More videos:

  • Review - MeshRoom Vs Reality Capture with blender
  • Tutorial - FREE MESHROOM A beginner tutorial, introduction to photogrammetry

3DF Zephyr videos

3D Scanning Review & Comparison: 3DF Zephyr Vs Autodesk Remake

More videos:

  • Review - 3d Modeling From Reality with 3DF Zephyr
  • Review - 3Dflow Academy - Videotutorial 1 - Basic 3DF Zephyr workflow - photogrammetry basics

Category Popularity

0-100% (relative to Meshroom and 3DF Zephyr)
3D
57 57%
43% 43
Architecture
64 64%
36% 36
Freelance
65 65%
35% 35
3D Modeling
100 100%
0% 0

User comments

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Social recommendations and mentions

Based on our record, Meshroom seems to be a lot more popular than 3DF Zephyr. While we know about 16 links to Meshroom, we've tracked only 1 mention of 3DF Zephyr. We are tracking product recommendations and mentions on various public social media platforms and blogs. They can help you identify which product is more popular and what people think of it.

Meshroom mentions (16)

  • Where is Meshroom SFM source code?
    I know there is this github repo Https://github.com/alicevision/meshroom. Source: about 3 years ago
  • I am new to photogrammetry and have a really stupid question I can't find an answer to on Google.
    You can input your photos into Meshroom using a capable computer or Colab. Even if you're only interested in some of the depthmaps, you'll have to input a full set of images around the object. It will take 2-4 times longer than default but for your usecase you may want to change the 'Downscale' attribute to 1. Source: over 3 years ago
  • Who knows an app for that?
    I know this is r/fossdroid, but I don't think there is any Foss Android application capable of that. However, meshroom came into my mind. It is free and open source with linux support. The downside of it is that you can't create the model right in your phone, but you first need to take many photos to then upload to your computer and process. Source: over 3 years ago
  • 3D modelling just by walking around the object
    This has been used in Video games for the Better part of decade, already. And you can do this yourself without an iphone with lidar, by taking a lot of pictures of an object from various angles, and then use something like meshroom to make a detailed 3d model of it. Source: over 3 years ago
  • 3D modelling just by walking around the object
    This is using the Iphones LIDAR, (basiacally laser depth sensor) to get accurate data, but it can be done also be done without it, just with a lot of pictures of all around the object, from various angles, and some software like meshroom. Source: over 3 years ago
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3DF Zephyr mentions (1)

  • URGENT! 3D scanning service or someone with a 3D scanner needed today!
    Third link should be: https://3dscanexpert.com/3df-zephyr-photogrammetry-software-review/. Source: over 3 years ago

What are some alternatives?

When comparing Meshroom and 3DF Zephyr, you can also consider the following products

Regard3D - Regard3D is a free, multiplatform, open-source structure-from-motion application.

RealityCapture - RealityCapture is a software solution which automatically produces high resolution 3D models from photographs or laser-scans.

ContextCapture - Acute3D develops breakthrough photogrammetry software solutions to automatically turn photos into photorealistic high resolution 3D models

Pix4Dmapper - Photogrammetry software for professional drone-based mapping, purely from images.

PhotoModeler - Learn more about the PhotoModeler software for generating 3D data, measurements and models of the real world using just a camera. Based on photogrammetry.

Skycatch - Commercial drone data solutions for modern businesses.