At Design4real, we have been working with 3D visualization, interactive real-time applications and extended reality for many years. Although we are not traditional surveyors, we are also not newcomers to the field of 3D capture. We have already worked with photogrammetry in numerous projects and achieved very good results - albeit always at considerable expense. Especially with larger structures such as buildings, photogrammetry is a time-consuming process that requires a large number of well-planned individual images, experience and post-processing.
Although the quality that can be achieved with photogrammetry is impressive, it can hardly be compared with what modern Gaussian splatting-models can achieve today - especially in terms of depth, plasticity and photorealistic impression. If you want to advance into the league of high-precision reconstruction, there is no getting around laser scanning. Until recently, this was simply unaffordable for smaller studios. Professional laser scanners usually cost many times more and were primarily aimed at companies in the surveying industry.
With the Lixel K1 this has changed. For around 14,000 euros net, we have now purchased a device that enables us to capture photorealistic 3D scenes ourselves with LiDAR support - quickly, on the move and with minimal setup. The scanner combines SLAM-based LiDAR with panoramic cameras and software that creates a usable Gaussian splatting model in just a few hours. This opens up completely new possibilities for us as XR Studio to efficiently translate real environments into digital experiences.
What particularly impresses us is that the 3D scenes created sometimes look so realistic that you can hardly distinguish them from film footage. Especially in combination with real-time engines, the boundaries between the real world and simulation become blurred. For us, this is not just a technological advance, but a new creative freedom.
The scanner uses a 360° LiDAR system with 40 lines and a maximum range of around 40 meters. The sensor system is supplemented by two 48-megapixel panoramic cameras, which enable a color point cloud in real time. According to the manufacturer, the accuracy is around ±1.2 cm. The scanner works on the basis of SLAM (simultaneous localization and mapping), which allows the scans to be registered while walking.
With a weight of around 1 kg and an operating time of approx. 90 minutes, the device is primarily designed for mobile indoor and outdoor use. The IP54 protection class allows it to be used even in slightly harsh conditions.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Device type | Handheld 3D scanner with LiDAR & panoramic camera |
| Sensors | 360° SLAM-based LiDAR system with 40 lasers |
| Measuring accuracy | ±1.2 cm (relative), ~3 cm (absolute) |
| Range (LiDAR) | Up to 40 m with 10% reflectivity, max. ~70 m with high reflectivity |
| Vertical viewing area | ~59° (from -7° to +52°), horizontal 360° |
| Camera system | 2 × 48 MP panoramic cameras (RGB) |
| Color capture | Real-time color integration of the point cloud |
| IMU / GNSS | Integrated IMU (inertial sensor), optional RTK-GNSS |
| Data storage | 256 GB microSD (TF card) |
| Battery & runtime | 28.8 Wh, approx. 90 minutes operating time, replaceable |
| Weight | ~1 kg incl. battery |
| Size | approx. 30 cm (with handle) |
| Protection class | IP54 (dust and splash-proof) |
| Operating temperature | -20 °C to +50 °C |
| Output formats | LAS, PLY, OBJ, LCC (proprietary), optional JSON |
| Software | Lixel Studio & Lixel CyberColor (incl. Gaussian Splatting) |
| Price (net) | approx. 14,000 € |
The Lixel K1 provides an end-to-end workflow for creating Gaussian splatting models. After acquisition with the device, the scan data is processed in the supplied Lixel Studio or LCC software. The creation of a complete splats model takes around two to four hours on average. This means that a complete project cycle (scan plus processing) can be completed in around six hours.
The software automatically creates 3 levels of detail in order to optimize models for desktop applications as well as for display on the web or on mobile devices. However, the lowest level of detail currently still shows visible artifacts (e.g. holes in wall surfaces).
In addition to the direct splats workflow, the Lixel K1 also allows image data to be exported for further processing with classic photogrammetry software such as RealityCapture or Agisoft Metashape. The image data can be extracted with appropriate calibration and used for mesh reconstructions.
The generated point cloud can also be exported in LAS format and further processed in common programs such as CloudCompare, ReCap or MeshLab. It can also be used in the scan-to-BIM workflow.
Plugins for Unity are already available for integration into XR environments. A web API and support for Unreal Engine are also in preparation or possible through third-party providers. The generated splats models can be hosted as web links and displayed in the browser without additional software.
The integration of SLAM data, color information and splats makes the device particularly interesting for immersive applications where time, quality and realistic display are crucial.
With a net price of around 14,000 euros, the Lixel K1 is in the mid-price segment for professional 3D scanners. It is aimed at users in the fields of XR design, architecture, film production and cultural heritage documentation. The user-friendliness of the system is particularly noteworthy - usable results can be achieved in a short time, even without previous experience in surveying technology.
The Lixel K1, also known as the "Lixel Kitty K1", is a compact handheld scanner that for the first time offers an integrated workflow for photorealistic Gaussian splatting models. With its SLAM-based LiDAR system and integrated panoramic cameras, textured 3D models can be created in a short time. This combination makes the scanner particularly interesting for applications in the fields of architecture, XR design and film production.
The Lixel K1 is a compact, portable 3D scanner with an integrated LiDAR system and panoramic cameras. It is used for fast and true-color 3D capture of indoor and outdoor spaces. Target groups include XR studios, architects, game developers and cultural heritage documentation.
The Lixel K1 captures a color point cloud during the scan, which is then converted into a Gaussian-splatting model using the included Lixel Studio or Lixel CyberColor software. The entire process - from scan to photorealistic model - usually takes less than 5 hours.
Yes, with a little know-how, the images and data captured with the Lixel K1 can also be imported into photogrammetry software such as RealityCapture or Metashape. However, the workflow is more complex than direct use via Gaussian splatting.
The file size depends on the resolution and complexity of the scene. With high-resolution splats models, individual files can be several gigabytes in size. This data is currently only suitable for WebGL or WebXR to a limited extent and requires optimization or powerful hardware.
Yes, there is already an official plugin for Unity. Integration is possible for Unreal and WebXR, but high-resolution splats models require powerful PCs or highly optimized LOD levels. Mobile XR glasses such as Meta Quest 3 can currently only display highly simplified models smoothly.
The current net price of the Lixel K1 is around 14,000 euros (as of 2025). The price includes the scanner, accessories, software licenses and support from the manufacturer or sales partner.
Are you interested in developing a virtual reality or 360° application? You may still have questions about budget and implementation. Feel free to contact me.
I am looking forward to you
Clarence Dadson CEO Design4real
