In the world of BIM (Building Information Modeling), capturing accurate, real-world data is essential. That’s where 3D scanning technology comes in. Two popular tools for this purpose are Matterport scans and 360° cameras. Both are used to capture spatial data, but they serve slightly different purposes and offer different levels of detail. Let’s dive into how these two technologies compare and which one might be right for your next BIM project.

What Are Matterport Scans?

Matterport is a 3D scanning technology that creates highly detailed, interactive, and accurate Digital Twins of real-world spaces. It uses a combination of cameras, laser sensors, and specialized software to capture every dimension of a room or building in 3D. The result is a photorealistic 3D model that not only shows the geometry of the space but also captures textures and colors.

The Matterport scan is often used as the foundation for BIM models, enabling architects, engineers, and contractors to work with a precise virtual replica of the physical space.

What Are 360° Cameras?

360° cameras, on the other hand, are designed to capture a full panoramic image of a space. These cameras use multiple lenses to create a spherical image, allowing you to see everything around you in a 360-degree view. Unlike Matterport, which produces 3D models, 360° photos are flat images that can be viewed interactively through software or VR. While 360° cameras are great for giving an immersive visual representation of a space, they don’t offer the same level of detail and measurement accuracy as Matterport scans.

Key Differences Between Matterport and 360° Cameras

Level of Detail

One of the biggest differences between Matterport scans and 360° cameras is the level of detail. Matterport uses advanced depth-sensing technology to capture not just the appearance of a space, but also its exact dimensions, such as room sizes, wall thicknesses, and the precise location of windows and doors.

360° cameras, while great for capturing a wide-angle view of a space, don’t measure distance or provide the precise measurements necessary for creating accurate BIM models. Instead, they’re typically used for visual documentation, giving you a general overview of the environment without providing the depth of detail needed for construction planning or analysis.

3D Model vs. Flat Images

When it comes to BIM modeling, a 3D model is crucial. Matterport provides a fully interactive 3D model of the space, which can be imported into BIM software like Revit or Navisworks. These models contain point cloud data that allows users to manipulate and extract measurements directly from the model itself.

In contrast, 360° photos are just spherical images that don’t have depth information. They can be used to view space from different angles, but they don’t offer the same level of interaction or precision as Matterport scans. For tasks like construction planning or design visualization, a 3D model is far more useful than a series of static 360° images.

Accuracy and Precision

If accuracy is your priority, Matterport is the clear winner. Matterport’s laser scanning technology can capture the exact dimensions of walls, floors, ceilings, and objects within the space with high precision—typically within 1-2 cm. This level of detail is crucial for creating BIM models that are not only visually accurate but also usable for construction and renovation purposes.

360° cameras, however, don’t provide the same precision. While they offer a detailed visual representation of the space, they don’t measure distances or create models that can be used for construction documentation. So, if you need to build an accurate BIM model from real-world data, Matterport is the better tool.

Time and Ease of Use

While both Matterport and 360° cameras are relatively easy to use, Matterport scans usually take longer to complete. This is because the scanner needs to capture the space from multiple angles and combine the data to generate a 3D model.

On the other hand, 360° cameras are much faster. You simply need to capture a few panoramic images at key points in the space. This makes 360° cameras ideal for quick walkthroughs, virtual tours, or general documentation. However, if you’re looking to create a comprehensive BIM model, Matterport’s additional time investment is worth it.

Cost

Another significant factor is cost. Matterport systems, especially with advanced features like high-definition scans and cloud storage, tend to be more expensive. This includes the scanner device itself, as well as the software and cloud services required to process and store the scans.

360° cameras are generally more affordable, with many options available for a fraction of the cost of a Matterport scanner. However, keep in mind that while 360° cameras are cheaper, they also don’t provide the same detailed output as Matterport and may require additional software to stitch images together or add interactivity.

Which One Is Right for Your BIM Project?

Now that we’ve broken down the differences between Matterport scans and 360° cameras, you might be wondering which one is the best fit for your next BIM project. It depends on your needs.

If you need accurate, detailed 3D models that will serve as the foundation for design, construction, and renovation, then Matterport is the way to go. With its precision, depth-sensing technology, and ability to create highly interactive 3D models, Matterport Scan to BIM is perfect for BIM professionals who require accurate measurements and detailed visualizations.

On the other hand, if you’re looking for a quick way to document a space visually or create a virtual tour for client presentations, then a 360° camera could be sufficient. It’s also a great choice if cost and speed are more important than precise measurements and 3D models.

The Bottom Line: Matterport or 360° Camera?

Matterport is ideal for BIM applications because it provides the accuracy, detail, and depth needed to create precise 3D models. If your project demands high-quality BIM data for construction, renovation, or facility management, Matterport is the right tool.

However, if you only need a simple visual overview or are creating virtual tours, 360° cameras are a more affordable and faster option. Each tool has its place, but for BIM professionals, Matterport’s superior accuracy and model creation make it the clear choice.

In the end, it comes down to what you need from your data. If it’s all about precision, detail, and creating usable BIM models, Matterport is the winner. For quick visuals and general documentation, a 360° camera will do the trick.