Imagine walking through a home you’re considering buying. Not through pictures, but a fully immersive, interactive 3D experience that lets you explore every room as if you were there in person. That’s what Matterport does—and it’s changing the game for industries like real estate, construction, and insurance. Matterport has made digital twin technology more accessible than ever, and if you’re in any of these fields, you might want to sit up and take notice.
What Is Matterport?
At its core, Matterport is a platform that allows users to create 3D virtual tours of physical spaces. With the help of a specialized camera, the Matterport system captures high-resolution, 360-degree imagery, generating a digital replica or “digital twin” of any space. Think of it like Google Street View, but for the indoors. Whether you’re walking through a luxury home or documenting a warehouse, Matterport’s 3D models are incredibly lifelike and interactive.
Matterport’s claim to fame? Its ability to convert physical environments into digital spaces that anyone can explore from anywhere in the world. This is huge, especially for industries where spatial accuracy and visualization matter.
What Does Matterport Do?
Matterport takes reality and puts it online. Its 3D models allow for complete immersion. Once a space is scanned, users can virtually “walk” through it, examine details up close, and even take measurements within the model. But Matterport doesn’t stop at just showcasing a space. It offers advanced functionalities like schematic floor plans, guided virtual tours, and integration with tools like virtual reality headsets.
These models are so precise that they’re often used in property marketing, construction planning, interior design, and even insurance claims. Matterport isn’t just a tool for visualization; it’s a way to capture data and transform the way industries function.
Where Can You Use Matterport?
Matterport is versatile, finding its way into several key industries:
- Real Estate: Virtual tours let potential buyers tour homes from anywhere in the world. No need to travel across the country to see a property. Buyers can explore every corner online, giving real estate agents a powerful sales tool.
- Construction: Construction professionals use Matterport to capture progress, collaborate with teams remotely, and avoid costly miscommunications. Need to inspect the layout without being on-site? A Matterport scan can show you exactly what’s happening.
- Insurance and Restoration: Matterport allows for a visual and measurable record of damage, making insurance claims more accurate. Adjusters can view the space as it was, ensuring no detail is missed during inspections.
Is Matterport Expensive?
Matterport is relatively accessible considering the advanced technology it offers. The Matterport Pro3 Camera, one of their flagship models, costs around $5,995, but that’s a one-time purchase. Alternatively, you can use compatible devices like the Insta360 ONE X2, starting as low as $429. The platform offers subscription-based plans starting at $9.99 per month for individual users and small businesses, with higher-tier plans offering more features and cloud storage.
For larger companies that need access to advanced functionality, Matterport’s pricing increases to match business needs. You can scale your subscription depending on how much you use it, making it cost-effective for both small teams and enterprise-level companies.
Can You Use Matterport Outdoors?
The short answer is yes, but with some limitations. Matterport’s cameras, especially the Pro2 and Pro3 models, are primarily designed for indoor use. That said, the Pro3 is capable of capturing outdoor spaces as well, though it performs best in well-lit conditions. Capturing outdoor areas like gardens, patios, or even construction sites is possible, but it’s always wise to scan during optimal lighting conditions to get the best results.
Who’s Using Matterport?
You’ll find Matterport in the toolkits of real estate agents, interior designers, construction managers, insurance adjusters, and even museums. Matterport’s versatility means it’s perfect for industries that rely on spatial visualization or need to document spaces accurately.
In the real estate world, buyers, sellers, and agents use it to market properties more effectively. Designers use it to envision renovations without being physically present. Insurance adjusters leverage Matterport to assess damage and streamline claims. And that’s just the tip of the iceberg. Matterport’s applications seem limitless.
How Accurate Are Matterport’s Measurements?
Matterport boasts incredible measurement accuracy, with errors typically within 1% of reality. This level of precision makes it indispensable for industries like construction and insurance, where exact measurements are critical. From measuring wall lengths for renovation projects to determining square footage for listings, the platform’s measurement tools are widely trusted.
Can You Download Matterport Tours?
Yes! Once a Matterport model is created, you can download it in several formats. You can download it as a 3D model for offline use or share it via a link. This makes it super easy to showcase a space even when internet connectivity is an issue. Plus, the platform offers various export options for use in other tools, like CAD or VR applications.
Can You Convert Matterport Tours to CAD?
Absolutely. Matterport allows you to export data that can be integrated into CAD software. This is a game-changer for architects and designers who need to use 3D models in their design processes. Once you’ve scanned a space with Matterport, you can extract the point cloud data and bring it into a CAD environment, saving significant time compared to traditional methods.
Is Matterport Free to Use?
Matterport does offer a free tier, which is perfect if you’re a small business or an individual wanting to try it out. The free plan gives access to limited cloud storage and essential features. However, as your needs grow, you’ll likely want to upgrade to one of their paid plans to access premium features like more storage, enhanced integrations, and better customer support.
Who Owns Matterport?
Matterport is a publicly traded company, and its stock is listed on the NASDAQ under the ticker symbol “MTTR.” Founded in 2011, Matterport has grown rapidly, with strategic partnerships and technology acquisitions fueling its growth. The company is headquartered in Sunnyvale, California, and remains a leading innovator in 3D capture technology.
Where Can You Buy Matterport?
You can purchase Matterport cameras and accessories directly from their website, and they also have authorized resellers worldwide. Additionally, some retailers like Amazon offer Matterport-compatible cameras such as the Insta360 and Ricoh Theta series for smaller budgets. Subscriptions to the Matterport platform can be bought online, directly from Matterport, making it easy to get started.
In Summary: Matterport’s Revolution
Matterport has fundamentally changed how we document, interact with, and understand physical spaces. Whether you’re selling homes, managing construction sites, or assessing damage for insurance, this platform provides real, actionable value. It’s more than just 3D tours—it’s a tool that brings efficiency, accuracy, and wow-factor to industries that rely on space. Contact us today!
