Cloud Automation vs CAD Integration
Feature Comparison
| Feature | Lidarvisor | Carlson Point Cloud |
|---|---|---|
| Platform | ☁️ Cloud (browser) | Desktop (CAD required) |
| Pricing | $0–$167/month | $2,000+ perpetual |
| Setup Time | ⚡ Instant | Days |
| Classification | ✨ Fully automatic (12+ classes) | Semi-automatic |
| Learning Curve | Minimal | Moderate (CAD skills) |
| CAD Integration | DXF export | Native AutoCAD/IntelliCAD |
| Free Tier | ✓ 10 ha | Trial only |
| Best For | Speed & automation | CAD-centric workflows |
CLOUD-POWERED
Lidarvisor: Speed for Modern Workflows
Upload your LAS file and get classified point clouds, DTMs, and CAD-ready deliverables in minutes.
✦ No Installation — Works in your browser on Mac, Windows, Linux, even tablets
✦ Automatic Classification — AI-powered ground, vegetation, building, wire, and pole detection across 12+ ASPRS classes
✦ Instant Deliverables — DTM, DSM, CHM, contours, and DXF exports ready in minutes
✦ Affordable Pricing — Start free with 10 ha, scale to $59–$167/month as needed
✦ Utility & Vegetation — Powerline vectorization and encroachment analysis included
CAD-CENTRIC
Carlson Point Cloud: For Survey Firms
A modular desktop application for surveyors and engineers who work within the Carlson ecosystem.
• CAD Native — Works directly inside AutoCAD or IntelliCAD environment
• Carlson Integration — Seamless workflow with Carlson Survey, Civil, and Mining modules
• Surface Generation — Create DTMs, contours, cross-sections, and profiles
• Large Dataset Handling — Process up to 1 billion points
• Perpetual License — One-time $2,000+ purchase (Basic version)
Carlson information based on publicly available data from carlsonsw.com and reseller sites.
Which Should You Choose?
The right tool depends on your workflow and existing software investments.
Choose Lidarvisor When…
✓ You need results quickly without tuning parameters
✓ You process up to 500 hectares per month
✓ Budget flexibility matters (pay monthly vs $2,000+ upfront)
✓ You want to try before committing (free tier)
✓ You need to share results with clients via web links
✓ You need utility/vegetation features without extra costs
✓ You work on Mac, Linux, or tablets (not just Windows)
Consider Carlson Point Cloud When…
• You already use Carlson Survey, Civil, or Mining software
• Your workflow is CAD-centric (AutoCAD/IntelliCAD)
• You prefer perpetual licensing over subscriptions
• You need detailed cross-section and profile tools
• Your team has CAD expertise
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! Lidarvisor offers a free tier with 10 hectares of processing, no credit card required. Carlson Point Cloud offers trial licenses through their sales team or resellers.
For most drone surveys, Lidarvisor’s automatic classification delivers fast, accurate results. Upload your LAS file and get classified point clouds in minutes. Carlson Point Cloud requires more manual work but offers tighter CAD integration for firms already using Carlson software.
Carlson Point Cloud can run as a standalone install using the included IntelliCAD engine, or you can install it on your existing AutoCAD platform. Lidarvisor requires no CAD software—it runs entirely in your web browser.
Both platforms generate DTMs and contours. Lidarvisor also generates DSM, CHM (Canopy Height Model), hillshade, and slope maps automatically. Carlson Point Cloud excels at cross-sections and profiles for corridor analysis.