The iPad Pro's LiDAR scanner is a compact and user-friendly tool for 3D scanning, offering decent performance for room-scale scenes and larger objects. However, when compared to other professional-grade 3D scanning devices, it falls short in terms of accuracy and resolution.
Speed
- iPad Pro LiDAR: The iPad Pro's LiDAR scanner is relatively fast for casual scanning tasks, making it suitable for quick 3D models or augmented reality applications. It can scan objects or rooms with surprising speed, especially when compared to photogrammetry methods, which require more time and processing power[3][6].- Professional Scanners: Devices like the Leica BLK2Go offer faster data acquisition due to their advanced technology and structured scan data capabilities. These scanners are designed for professional applications where speed and precision are critical[8].
Accuracy
- iPad Pro LiDAR: While the iPad Pro's LiDAR is good for general use, its accuracy is generally around a few centimeters. For example, using the 3DScannerAPP, errors were found to be around 1.17 cm to 3.31 cm depending on settings[1]. This level of accuracy is sufficient for many consumer applications but may not meet the standards required for precise engineering or surveying tasks[4].- Professional Scanners: High-end scanners like laser scanners used in industrial settings offer sub-millimeter accuracy, far surpassing the iPad Pro's capabilities. These devices are calibrated for precise measurements and are used in applications where accuracy is paramount, such as construction or surveying[4][9].
Resolution
- iPad Pro LiDAR: The resolution of the iPad Pro's LiDAR can be adjusted, with options ranging from 5 mm to 20 mm. Lower resolutions result in faster scans but less detailed models[1]. While this is suitable for many consumer applications, it lacks the high-resolution capabilities of professional scanners.- Professional Scanners: Professional-grade scanners can achieve much higher resolutions, providing detailed point clouds that are essential for applications requiring precise measurements and detailed models[10].
In summary, while the iPad Pro's LiDAR scanner is convenient and fast for casual use, it does not match the speed, accuracy, or resolution of professional-grade 3D scanning devices. For applications requiring high precision and detailed scans, professional scanners are still the preferred choice.
Citations:[1] https://d-nb.info/1240837399/34
[2] https://insights.outsight.ai/how-does-lidar-compares-to-cameras-and-radars/
[3] https://www.reddit.com/r/photogrammetry/comments/xrnna0/how_does_the_ipad_pros_lidar_perform_for_3d/
[4] https://www.reddit.com/r/augmentedreality/comments/fzj3yc/ipad_pro_lidar_sensor_3d_scanning_accuracy/
[5] https://www.nhtsa.gov/sites/nhtsa.gov/files/documents/809811-lidarspeedmeasuringdevice.pdf
[6] https://www.cnet.com/tech/mobile/lidar-is-one-of-the-iphone-ipad-coolest-tricks-its-only-getting-better/
[7] https://discussions.apple.com/thread/253942339
[8] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VznAdaIiaJI
[9] https://www.mdpi.com/2227-7080/9/2/25
[10] https://equatorstudios.com/lidar-accuracy-vs-resolution/