MicMac vs PIX4Dcatch

MicMac is free, open-source desktop software for reconstructing 3D models from imagery. Developed at IGN and ENSG within the LASTIG lab, it runs on Linux, macOS and Windows under the CECILL-B license. It supports frame cameras, pushbroom sensors and scanned analogue images, along with camera calibration models and dense image matching for deformation studies. Outputs can include point clouds, 3D models and ortho-imagery in a desired coordinate system. Intermediate results in open formats let users work at different stages, and quality indicators include bundle adjustment residuals, covariance matrices, parameter sensitivity and correlation images. The C3DC command computes a point cloud from oriented images; AperiCloud creates a sparse cloud with camera positions and orientations for viewing in MeshLab, but does not support 64-bit PLY. MicMac is adapted to big datasets and was initially built for experts and researchers, with use also described in architecture, archaeology and forestry. Documentation, tutorials, a wiki and user forum are available. Building from source involves multiple dependencies, and the Mac guide cautions that a current revision may not compile or may be unstable on a given OS.

PIX4Dcatch is a mobile app for capturing ground scans and turning terrestrial data into 3D models. It records image frames with position and orientation information and gives real-time feedback on scan coverage. Georeferenced models are created with photogrammetry and LiDAR; LiDAR depth capture is used by the iOS version, while Android processing does not use depth data. Processing happens off the phone and requires a valid PIX4Dcloud or PIX4Dmatic license or trial. Captured data can be uploaded to PIX4Dcloud or exported to PIX4Dmapper or PIX4Dmatic, and the product page describes overlays for DXF, IFC, and SHP designs. Phone GNSS location is expected to be accurate to a few meters; a supported RTK device can provide absolute accuracy in the range of a few centimeters, with compatible equipment and an active regional NTRIP subscription. After login, capture can work offline, but cloud uploads need internet access. PIX4Dcloud can process up to 4,000 images per project. The Discovery license is free; PIX4Dcatch Pro is $132.50 a month, billed yearly, excluding taxes.