XGRIDS Lixel K1 3D Scanner -
for photorealistic Gaussian Splatting files
At Design4real, we've been involved in 3D visualization, interactive real-time applications, and extended reality for many years. While we aren't traditional surveyors, we're not newcomers to 3D capture either. We've worked with photogrammetry on numerous projects and achieved very good results – but always with considerable effort. Especially with larger structures like buildings, photogrammetry is a time-consuming process that requires a large amount of well-planned individual shots, experience, and post-processing.
While the quality achievable with photogrammetry is impressive, it's hard to compare with what modern Gaussian Splatting-models achieve today – especially in terms of depth, plasticity, and photorealistic impression. If you want to enter the league of high-precision reconstruction, you cannot avoid laser scanning. Until recently, this was simply unaffordable for smaller studios. Professional laser scanners mostly 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 net, we have now acquired a device that allows us to capture photorealistic 3D scenes with LiDAR support ourselves – quickly, mobile, 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 entirely new possibilities for us as an XR studio to efficiently translate real environments into digital experiences.
What particularly impresses us: The generated 3D scenes are sometimes so realistic that they are barely distinguishable from film recordings. Especially in combination with real-time engines, the boundaries between the real world and simulation blur. For us, this is not just a technological advancement, but a new creative freedom.
Technical Equipment
The scanner uses a 360° LiDAR system with 40 lines and a maximum range of about 40 meters. The sensor system is complemented by two 48-megapixel panoramic cameras, which enable a real-time colored point cloud. According to the manufacturer, the accuracy is approximately ±1.2 cm. The scanner works on the basis of SLAM (Simultaneous Localization and Mapping), which allows for scan registration while walking.
Weighing around 1 kg and with an operating time of approx. 90 minutes, the device is primarily designed for mobile use indoors and outdoors. The IP54 protection class allows it to be used even under slightly more challenging conditions.
Technical Specifications of the Lixel K1 (Kitty K1)
| Property | Details |
|---|---|
| Device type | Handheld 3D scanner with LiDAR & panoramic camera |
| Sensory | 360° SLAM-based LiDAR system with 40 lasers |
| Measurement accuracy | ±1.2 cm (relative), ~3 cm (absolute) |
| Range (LiDAR) | Up to 40 m at 10% reflectivity, max. ~70 m at high reflectivity |
| Vertical field of view | ~59° (from -7° to +52°), horizontal 360° |
| Camera system | 2 x 48 MP Panoramic Cameras (RGB) |
| Record filing | Real-time color integration of the point cloud |
| IMU / GNSS | Integrated IMU (Inertial Measurement Unit), 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 protected) |
| Operating temperature | -4 °F to 122 °F |
| Output formats | LAS, PLY, OBJ, LCC (proprietary), optional JSON |
| Software | Lixel Studio & Lixel CyberColor (incl. Gaussian Splatting) |
| Price (net) | approx. €14,000 |
Integrated Workflow for Gaussian Splatting
The Lixel K1 provides a seamless workflow for creating Gaussian Splatting models. After capturing data with the device, the scan data is processed in the included Lixel Studio or LCC software. Generating a complete splats model takes approximately two to four hours on average. This allows for a full project cycle (scan plus processing) in about six hours.
The software automatically creates 3 Levels of Detail (LOD) to optimize models for both desktop applications and for display on the web or mobile devices. However, the lowest level of detail currently still shows visible artifacts (e.g., holes in wall surfaces).
Export Options for Alternative Workflows
In addition to the direct Splats workflow, the Lixel K1 also allows the export of image data 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 a Scan-to-BIM workflow.
Integration into existing XR workflows
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 representation are crucial.
Price and target audience
With a net price of around 14,000 Euros, the Lixel K1 falls into the mid-price range for professional 3D scanners. It is aimed at users in the fields of XR design, architecture, film production, and heritage documentation. The system's user-friendliness is particularly noteworthy – usable results can be achieved quickly, even without prior experience in surveying technology.
The Lixel K1 in Review: First Handheld 3D Scanner for a Photorealistic Gaussian Splatting Workflow
The Lixel K1, also known as the „Lixel Kitty K1,“ is a compact handheld scanner that is the first to offer 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 amount of time. This combination makes the scanner particularly interesting for applications in architecture, XR design, and film production.
Integration into systems like Unity, Unreal, and WebGL
Conclusion
Further articles: Lixel K2 compared to K1, XGRIDS Lixel L3, PortalCam Review and Aerial Ground Map Fusion.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Lixel K1 3D Scanner
The Lixel K1 is a compact, portable 3D scanner with an integrated LiDAR system and panoramic cameras. It is used for fast and color-accurate 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 supplied Lixel Studio or Lixel CyberColor software. The entire process – from scan to photorealistic model – typically takes less than 5 hours.
Yes, with a bit of know-how, images and data captured with the Lixel K1 can also be imported into photogrammetry software like 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. For high-resolution splat models, individual files can become several gigabytes in size. Currently, this data is only conditionally suitable for WebGL or WebXR and requires optimizations 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 headsets like the Meta Quest 3 can currently only render greatly simplified models smoothly.
The current net price of the Lixel K1 is approximately €14,000 (as of 2025). The price includes the scanner, accessories, software licenses, and support from the manufacturer or distribution partner.
