1. Autodesk ReCap Pro

ReCap Pro is one of the most widely used point cloud processing tools for Autodesk users. It’s ideal for converting scan data into formats compatible with AutoCAD and Revit.

• Easy cloud-to-cloud registration
• Supports .rcs/.rcp formats for BIM workflows
• Integrated directly with Autodesk Construction Cloud
• Subscription-based (monthly or yearly)

Best for: Architects, engineers, and BIM managers using Revit

2. FARO SCENE

FARO SCENE is built for FARO laser scanners but also supports third-party point cloud data. It excels in automated registration, object recognition, and scan colorization.

• Real-time scan viewing and pre-alignment
• Automated registration with targets or targetless workflows
• Works well for forensics and crash scene modeling
• Includes powerful visualization tools

Best for: Forensics, industrial facilities, and users of FARO hardware

3. Leica Cyclone Register 360

Cyclone Register 360 is Leica’s advanced scan registration platform for aligning point clouds and preparing them for modeling. It supports seamless integration with Leica hardware and supports automated workflows.

• High-speed, large-scale registration tools
• Compatible with Leica RTC360, BLK360, and P-series scanners
• One-click publishing to TruView or JetStream
• Supports cloud and target-based alignment

Best for: High-volume scanning and Leica equipment users

4. Trimble RealWorks

Trimble RealWorks is a full-featured point cloud processing suite for professionals working in construction and civil engineering. It combines registration, modeling, and analysis in one platform.

• Powerful modeling tools for pipes, surfaces, and structural elements
• Seamless integration with Trimble total stations and laser scanners
• Useful for deformation and volume analysis

Best for: Surveyors, plant engineers, and Trimble ecosystem users

5. CloudCompare (Open Source)

CloudCompare is a free, open-source point cloud editor with advanced tools for segmentation, comparison, and filtering. It’s widely used for academic research and smaller projects.

• Supports multiple formats (.las, .ply, .e57, etc.)
• Includes cloud comparison, distance calculation, and mesh generation
• Active plugin ecosystem and strong community support

Best for: Researchers, hobbyists, and lightweight editing

Which One Should You Choose?

The right software depends on your scanner, industry, and desired output. For BIM workflows, ReCap is a solid choice. For forensics or industrial users, FARO SCENE or RealWorks may be a better fit. And if you use Leica hardware, Cyclone is the clear go-to.

Need flexibility? CloudCompare is free and versatile for general tasks.

Conclusion

Software is the bridge between raw scan data and meaningful deliverables. Whether you’re modeling, measuring, or managing a team, choosing the right 3D laser scanning software is essential to a streamlined workflow.

Explore more in our software buyer’s guide or check scanner/software bundles in our equipment catalog.

1. Autodesk ReCap Pro

Best for: Beginners, architects, and Revit users

Platform: Windows

Integrates with: Autodesk Revit, AutoCAD, Civil 3D

ReCap Pro is known for its intuitive interface, powerful cloud-based registration, and seamless workflow into Autodesk BIM tools. It’s ideal for users already in the Autodesk ecosystem.

2. FARO SCENE

Best for: High-speed terrestrial scans, industrial users

Platform: Windows

Integrates with: FARO hardware, Autodesk, Leica (via export)

FARO SCENE is optimized for FARO scanners and supports real-time registration, automated object recognition, and VR previews. It’s highly customizable for advanced point cloud workflows.

3. Leica Cyclone

Best for: Infrastructure, BIM professionals, large projects

Platform: Windows

Integrates with: Leica scanners, Revit, MicroStation

Cyclone is a powerhouse software suite offering tools for registration (Cyclone REGISTER), modeling (Cyclone MODEL), and cloud sharing (Cyclone ENTERPRISE). It handles massive datasets efficiently and includes automated extraction tools.

4. Trimble RealWorks

Best for: Civil engineering, topographic mapping

Platform: Windows

Integrates with: Trimble Business Center, AutoCAD

Designed specifically for Trimble hardware, RealWorks enables fast, accurate registration, surface modeling, and volume computation. It’s ideal for construction, utilities, and geospatial teams.

5. CloudCompare (Open Source)

Best for: Lightweight workflows, academic use, open-source fans

Platform: Windows, macOS, Linux

Integrates with: All point cloud formats

CloudCompare is a free, open-source tool with impressive capabilities for point cloud editing, comparison, filtering, and mesh generation. While it lacks full automation, it’s a great utility for fast, small-scale tasks.

6. 3DReshaper / Trimble Perspective

Best for: Mesh generation, topography, inspection

Platform: Windows

Integrates with: Various scanner formats

3DReshaper (now part of Trimble) focuses on transforming raw point cloud data into actionable 3D meshes for inspection, surface modeling, and volume analysis.

Choosing the Right Tool for Your Workflow

• For BIM integration: ReCap Pro, Leica Cyclone
• For industrial scans: FARO SCENE, RealWorks
• For flexible, low-cost editing: CloudCompare
• For advanced surface work: 3DReshaper

Keep in mind scanner compatibility, required deliverables, and user skill level when making your choice.

Conclusion

The best 3D scanning software is the one that fits your scanner, your deliverables, and your budget. Each platform has strengths, and many professionals use multiple tools depending on project type.

Want to see how different software compares in your workflow? Check out our software comparison chart or explore licensed software packages in our shop.