How to use the Remesh tool

Pro, Business, Enterprise
Polycam Web, iOS & Android

Remeshing allows you to adjust your capture’s polygon count and texture maps to create a cleaner and simpler model for exporting. This process helps optimize the 3D model’s structure, making it smoother and more efficient for further use in various applications.

Why Use Remeshing?

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  • Reduced file sizes for easier sharing and storage
  • Improved performance in 3D applications and viewing
  • Optimized models for AR/VR experiences

Accessing the Remesh Tool

1. Navigate to the Library tab and select your desired capture

2. Choose Remesh from the available editing tools
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Optimizing Polygon Count

The polygon count slider is your primary tool for balancing detail and performance:

Lower Polygon Counts:

  • Create lightweight, simplified models
  • Ideal for real-time applications and mobile devices
  • Reduce file sizes significantly
  • Best for distant viewing or simple geometric shapes

Higher Polygon Counts:

  • Preserve fine surface details and intricate features
  • Suitable for close-up viewing and detailed analysis
  • Result in larger file sizes

Understanding Topology Options

Polycam offers two distinct remeshing strategies to suit different use cases.

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Uniform Topology

This approach creates triangles of consistent size across the entire model.

Best For:

  • Simple geometric objects
  • Low-resolution models intended for real-time use
  • Scenarios requiring consistent mesh density
  • Basic shapes where uniform detail distribution is acceptable

Characteristics:

  • Predictable polygon distribution
  • Consistent performance across the model
  • Simpler mesh structure for easier editing

Adaptive Topology

  • Adjusts triangle size based on surface complexity.

  • Preserves fine details while simplifying flatter or less complex areas.

Best For:

  • Preserving fine details in complex areas
  • Simplifies flat or less detailed surfaces
  • Optimizes polygon usage efficiently
  • Maintains visual quality

Configuring Texture Resolution

When remeshing, Polycam consolidates multiple textures into a single, optimized texture map. Choose your resolution based on your intended use:

Texture Resolution Types

Resolution Options

  • 1K (1024×1024): Suitable for distant viewing, mobile applications, and models that are not the primary focus of the scene. 
  • 2K (2048×2048): Balanced option for most general purposes and web viewing
  • 4K (4096×4096): Maximum detail for close-up viewing, printing, or professional applications
  • 8K (8192×8192): Maximum resolution for extreme detail preservation, archival purposes, or large-scale professional projects

Considerations:

  • Higher resolutions preserve more texture detail but increase file size
  • Lower resolutions reduce storage requirements and improve loading times
  • Match resolution to your final output requirements

Complete Your Remesh

Once you've configured your settings:

1. Review your settings to ensure they match your intended use case

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2. Click or tap Remesh to begin processing

3. Wait for completion - processing time varies based on model complexity and settings

4. Access your results - a new, optimized version appears in your Library alongside the original

The remesh process creates a duplicate of your model, leaving your original capture completely unchanged.