Which Capture Mode Should I Use?

Picking a Mode

Polycam offers five capture modes, each designed for a different type of subject and output. Use this guide to find the right one for your project.

Quick Comparison

Mode 3D model Floor plan Measurements LiDAR required
Space Mode ✅ LiDAR only ✅ For floorplan only
Object Mode ✅ — ✅ —
Floorplan Mode ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅
AI Capture ✅ — ✅ —
360 Mode — — — —

Modes in Detail

Space Mode
iOS only · LiDAR required for floorplan generation
Space Mode scans interior environments and produces different outputs depending on your device. On LiDAR-enabled devices, a single session generates three outputs: a detailed 3D LiDAR mesh, a clean 3D floorplan model, and a 2D floorplan with measurements and room labels.

On non-LiDAR devices, Space Mode produces a mesh model only.

Best for
  • Scanning interior rooms, full homes, or multi-level buildings
  • Projects that need accurate room measurements or 2D drawings
  • Architecture, construction, and space planning documentation
  • Real estate listings requiring detailed floorplans
Object Mode
iOS · Web · Android (Photogrammetry only on Android)
Object Mode gives you two ways to turn photos into 3D: Photogrammetry for traditional mesh models, and Gaussian Splats for photorealistic results. It works on iOS, Web, and Android and does not require a LiDAR sensor.
Best for · Photogrammetry
  • Individual objects, products, furniture, and sculptures
  • 3D printing, engineering, and insurance documentation
Best for · Gaussian Splats
  • Objects with complex materials, reflections, or transparency
  • Fine details like hair, fur, or fabric textures
  • Photorealistic product visualization and artistic applications
Floorplan Mode
Requires LiDAR · iOS only
Floorplan Mode lets you quickly capture a 3D model of a room and generate a floorplan by walking the perimeter of the space. The LiDAR sensor maps the room in real time as you move, generating a 3D room model along the way. It is simpler and faster than Space Mode for situations where a full 3D mesh is not needed.
Best for
  • Fast interior room capture when a full 3D mesh is not required
  • Property listings and real estate marketing
  • Renovation planning and contractor documentation
  • Insurance or lease documentation requiring room dimensions
AI Capture
iOS only · Free plan: 3 generations · Paid plans: unlimited
AI Capture transforms a single photo into a 3D model using Polycam's AI pipeline. Open the app, take a new photo or upload one from your camera roll, and the app automatically detects and outlines the object for processing.
Best for
  • Rapid prototyping and capturing quick reference objects
  • Incorporating real-world items into Polycam scenes
  • One-shot captures where a detailed scan is not necessary
360 Mode
iOS only
360 Mode captures a fully stitched 360° panorama by rotating your iPhone in a complete circle along a guided line. It does not produce a 3D mesh or geometry. Instead it creates a photorealistic panorama. After processing, the AI Fill feature can automatically complete any missed or incomplete areas of the panorama to produce a final image.
Best for
  • Immersive virtual tours for real estate and hospitality
  • Preserving landscapes and memorable environments
  • Documenting a space visually without needing 3D geometry
  • Sharing interactive panoramas with clients or remote viewers

Not sure which to use? If you need measurements or a floorplan, use Space Mode. For a faster interior-only capture, try Floorplan Mode. For capturing a single object in detail, use Object Mode. For a quick 3D model from one photo, use AI Capture. For an immersive panorama without 3D geometry, use 360 Mode.