For professionals seeking refined 3D modeling with advanced features, Metashape serves compellingly with its AI-enabled capabilities and premium cloud computing support. However, if you’re seeking an open-source photogrammetry solution with community backing and multiple platform compatibility, WebODM stands as a robust choice.
Key Differences Between Metashape and WebODM
- Metashape boasts advanced features like depth maps for detailed 3D modeling, while WebODM offers basic open-source photogrammetry tools.
- WebODM originates from a community-driven, open-source initiative, unlike Metashape, which operates as a commercial application.
- Both are cross-platform, but WebODM employs an array of languages such as Python, C++, JavaScript, Shell, and Go.
- Metashape’s advanced mesh-refinement techniques differ from WebODM’s less complex processes.
- Pricing varies significantly; Metashape offers a $3499 professional license, whereas WebODM is free.
- While Metashape provides virtual desktop compatibility, WebODM emphasizes broad platform accessibility.
| Comparison | MetaShape by Agisoft | WebODM by OpenDroneMap |
|---|---|---|
| Application Use | For creating 2D or 3D models from images for GIS, cultural heritage documentation, VFX production, indirect object measurement | Processes aerial imagery into maps, 3D models |
| Operating System Compatibility | Windows, Linux, MacOS | Windows, Linux, MacOS |
| Cost | Professional version $3499, Standard $179 for a perpetual licence, Educational discount available $59 | Freely distributed, Open-source |
| Major Features and Capabilities | Building detailed 3D models, supports large photo sets, integrates AI land-use classification, supports cloud processing, offers multiple export formats, refining meshing noise, texture building, model scaling, Virtual Desktop compatibility, inbuilt cleaning and crop tools | Integrated with the American Red Cross’s system, origin from Quesda’s BundlerTools, Uses BundlerTools for photogrammetry process, co-founded by Piero Toffanin, Integrated with NodeODM, can use MicMac as a processing engine via NodeMICMAC, redesigned with Mapillary and Spotscale, encourages contributions, features translation support, utilizes postgres postgis for database settings |
| Integration and Compatibility | Compatible with applications like Meshlab, Cloudcompare, Sketchfab | Integrates with NodeODM for parallel processing |
What Is Metashape and Who’s It For?
Metashape by Agisoft is a formidable photogrammetry application used for fabricating 2D or 3D models from images. Its versatility shines with usage among GIS, cultural heritage documentation, VFX production, and indirect object measurement. It’s the perfect tool for tech-savvy individuals and professionals who find excitement in constructing comprehensive 3D models.
Pros of Metashape
- No limitations on photo number or GPU usage
- Professional edition includes AI land-use classification
- Cloud dataset processing support
- Multiple export formats including .obj, .pdf, and .stl
Cons of Metashape
- High-cost Professional version
- High accuracy processing could take exhaustive hours
- Markers recommended for image alignment
What Is WebODM and Who’s It For?
Enter WebODM, an open-source photogrammetry toolkit brought to you by OpenDroneMap. Breathing life into aerial imagery by transforming them into maps and 3D models, it serves specialists who find solace in mapping and 3D model creation. Invigorated by attempts to map carbon sequestration, it’s made strides in the geo-world since its inception in 2013.
Pros of WebODM
- Runs on Windows, Linux, MacOS
- Free and hostable on GitHub
- Offers multiple communication channels for user queries and community interaction
- Automated installer for Windows and MacOS users
Cons of WebODM
- Initial setup can be complex
- Requires familiarity with Python, C++, JavaScript, Shell, Go
- Reliant on Docker for backups
The Final Say: Metashape or WebODM?
An informed verdict on the faceoff between Metashape and WebODM is as follows:
Developers & Game Makers
Metashape reigns supreme here due to its seamless 3D model creation, diverse export formats, compatibility with major applications, and its powerful processing capabilities highlighted by its depth map model introductions and efficient processing times.
AR/VR Creators
In the diverse and demanding world of AR/VR, the comprehensive toolkit of WebODM takes the cake. Its cross-platform compatibility coupled with the feature-rich end-to-end photogrammetry process makes it the top choice.
Tech Enthusiasts
Metashape holds the edge for enthusiasts, offering user-friendly features like photo alignment, tools for efficient model creation and advanced exporting. While pricier, Metashape is more robust and supports more complex projects.
Summing up the Metashape vs WebODM showdown succinctly: Metashape is the perfect fit for intricate, detailed 3D model creations due to its advanced features and processing prowess, while WebODM scores for large-scale projects due to its comprehensive, open-source photogrammetry toolkit.
