FocusFusion vs ImageFocus Alpha

FocusFusion is a free Windows application that combines photographs taken at different focus distances into one image with greater depth of field. It provides depthmap and wavelet focus-stacking algorithms, automatic alignment, and manual retouching. Depthmap expects images ordered front-to-back or back-to-front and can struggle with translucency or complex overlaps. Wavelet accepts images in any order, but may increase noise, create artifacts at sharp luminance transitions, or reduce alignment quality. Processing uses at least 16-bit precision per channel. Supported inputs are TIFF up to 48 bpp, 16-bit-per-channel JPEG XR, and classic 8-bit JPEG; RAW files are not supported. A clone-based retouching tool offers adjustable brush size, hardness, and opacity, with cloning at 16-bit quality. FocusFusion requires Windows 10, an SSE4.1 CPU made after 2008, and at least 8 GB of memory; 16 GB is recommended for deeper stacks or larger DSLR images. It is distributed through the Windows Store.

ImageFocus Alpha is microscope image capture and analysis software from Euromex. It supports measurements and annotations on live views and captured images, with tools for segmentation, counting, image stitching, and extended depth of focus. Fluorescence functions include combining captured fluorescence images. Images can be saved as.jpg,.tif,.bmp, or.dicom files, and videos as.avi files. Euromex provides installations for Windows, Mac OS, and Linux, as well as Android and iOS apps for Wi-Fi enabled devices. The full package includes DirectShow, Twain, and µManager drivers. The Alpha download is designed for compatible Euromex equipment, including USB-3 Pro and scientific cameras, cooled and Wi-Fi cameras, HD-Pro and other VC cameras, a digital bScope, and DC.2000L. The listed ImageFocus Alpha plan is free, and Euromex says software updates are available free from its website. The iOS app is available only through the App Store. Euromex describes the software as supplied with camera solutions for universities, laboratories, and industry, and directs customers to its downloads page for assistance.