Most 3D scanning applications make use of a smartphone or tablet camera to capture 3D data.

Many such 3D scanning apps are available for the iPhone, but not all are created equal.

Here well take a look at five of the best.

An object being 3D scanned using an iphone

Qlone

Qlone allows users to quickly and easily capture 3D models of physical objects.

The app uses the machine’s camera to take pictures of the object from different angles.

There are two main scanning options:Use a MatandWithout a Mat.

The interface of Qlone app immediately when you launch it

Image Credit: KamuiCosplay/YouTube

The images are then processed on the iPhone to create a 3D model.

you’re free to export your 3D models in popular file formats, including for 3D printing.

Theres a choice of resolutions for models: HD, FHD, or 4K.

Use a Mat and Without a Mat options in Qlope app

In AR viewing mode, it’s possible for you to even animate 3D models.

Download:Qlone(Free, in-app purchases available)

2.

After signing in with your Apple ID, you’ll poke the+icon to begin the process.

Different editing options for 3D models in Qlone app

If you choose the AR Capture option, you will use your phone’s camera to start 3D scanning.

Once you are done, you will be able to see an option to add more details to scans.

Thereafter, you will selectProcess,and your images will start processing.

An option to edit 3D scans generated by the trnio plus app

ChooseEditto make edits to your 3D model, such as changing the colors.

Best of all, you could use photos you have taken from different angles to create 3D models.

Download:Trnio Plus(Free, in-app purchases available)

3.

The edited version of the 3D scan in trnio plus

After selecting a category, you’ll be prompted to allow the app to use your location.

Once you are finished, click theDoneoption to see the images captured by the app.

you’re free to review and delete any that aren’t good.

An option to add descriptions to your 3D scans after capturing them and processing them too

Then selectUploadto upload your images to their server to convert them to 3D models.

When uploading, ensure that you keep your app open until the upload process is finished.

For example, you could crop, measure, and even extend.

An option to create an account on polycam app

AVideosetting also helps you see what your 3D model looks like from different angles.

Download:Polycam(Free, in-app purchases available)

4.

Upon launching the app, you will need to selectGo To Settingsand allow it to use the iPhones camera.

An option to choose what you do in polycam app

To use Heges, your iPhone should have a TrueDepth camera or LiDAR to function correctly.

All iPhones with Face ID have a TrueDepth 3D camera.

With Heges, you’re able to take pictures of the intended design from different angles.

A demonstration of how to save your files on polycam app

Once you are done, you could preview the 3D scans taken.

Heges is perfect for creating models of small objects like coins, jewelry, or sculptures.

The app is also great for scanning larger projects like furniture or cars.

The pictures generated by polycam app after 3D scanning

Download:Heges(Free, in-app purchases available)

5.

EM3D

With EM3D, you’re able to 3D scan objects using your iPhone’s TrueDepth camera.

When everything is set, selectOKto get into the app to start 3D scanning.

A demonstration of how to upload your images to the cloud for processing

Like Heges, with EM3D your iPhone needs to have a TrueDepth camera.

It also supports Bluetooth shutter buttons (see our guide onhow Bluetooth works).

This is important if you would like to 3D scan on aphone tripod.

Different cropping options in Polycam app

Editing a 3D model in Polycam

An option to enable the camera immediately when you launch the app

Using heges app to 3D scan a phone stand

Pictures in different angles captured by the heges app

before-accepting-camera-permissions

after-accepting-camera-permissions

A white man 3D scanning a woman using EM3D 3D scanning app

Image Credit: KamuiCosplay/YouTube

3D printable mirror adaptor being opened in an STL viewer