The XGRIDS Lixel K2 combines a denser point cloud with significantly better image quality than the K1. In our opinion, however, it does not come close to the PortalCam in terms of visual quality. This is precisely its special role: it is suitable for both technical recording and media production. Those who produce exclusively visual media are likely to opt for the PortalCam because of its lower price. The K2 costs more, but it also includes integrated RTK and a more powerful surveying workflow.
Brief overview: K1, K2 and PortalCam
The devices focus on different areas. The K1 is primarily aimed at surveying technicians and users who need mobile LiDAR imaging and positioning capabilities. The PortalCam is more suited for media production and visually compelling Gaussian-Splatting scenes. The K2 sits in the middle: It handles mobile LiDAR acquisition, significantly improves image quality compared to the K1, and can also be used for media productions.
That’s not a rigid boundary. I’ve also used the K1 for media productions. The devices can be used for different projects; the crucial question is where their strengths and costs best fit the target.
| System | Image quality / display | Typical focus | Classification |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lixel K1 | Older image quality compared to the K2 | Mobile surveying and technical recording | Can also be used in media projects |
| Lixel K2 | Significantly better than K1; visually superior to PortalCam | LiDAR, dense point cloud, RTK and mixed workflows | For technical recording and media production |
| PortalCam | The strongest visual quality in direct comparison | Media production and photorealistic 3DGS scenes | Probably the more obvious choice, if only visualization counts |
| Lixel L3 | Higher-quality camera optics than the K2 | Flagship for demanding, precise recording | Located above the K2 |
The point cloud comparison takes a different direction than the visual comparison: In our practical comparison, the K2 provides a significantly denser point cloud than the PortalCam. The PortalCam, on the other hand, appears more visually convincing. This quality assessment stems from our work with the systems and is not a manufacturer's statement.
What is the XGRIDS Lixel K2?
The K2 is a hand-held LiDAR scanner from the XGRIDS-Lixel series. During capture, it combines spatial measurement data with camera images and SLAM. This allows for the generation of color point clouds, meshes, and Gaussian scattering models. The different versions make it equally interesting for technical documentation as for visualization, XR, and digital twins.
XGRIDS claims a range of up to 40 meters for the K2 at 10 percent reflectivity, a detection rate of up to 200,000 points per second, and 1 cm relative accuracy. Such manufacturer values depend on scene, recording conditions, and processing. They are not a blanket guarantee of accuracy for any project.
Camera and image quality: K2 improves on the K1
Compared to the K1, the K2 provides significantly better image quality. This is relevant for color point clouds and visual 3D results and extends the field of application beyond pure surveying. Media productions are also possible with the K2. The Lixel K1 was also usable for this; I used it myself in media productions.
However, the PortalCam delivers the more convincing visual quality. If a project primarily aims for the photorealistic effect of a scene, a virtual walkthrough, or a high-quality 3DGS presentation, it is the stronger choice for us. The K2 is then useful when dense geometric data, a point cloud, or a connection to surveying and drone data are also important.
RTK in K2: the difference from K1 for outdoor shots
Another important difference lies in the positioning: With the K2, the RTK module is integrated. With the K1, it had to be purchased as a separate accessory, which meant an additional, not insignificant cost factor. RTK stands for Real-Time Kinematic. GNSS satellite measurements are then refined using correction data from a reference station or a correction service.
For users, this means that under suitable conditions, the position of a scan can be more precisely placed in a coordinate system than with a conventional GPS fix. RTK requires sufficient satellite reception and correction data. It is therefore particularly useful for outdoor shots; in indoor or shaded areas, other parts of the recording and registration workflow are crucial.
The coordinate reference can simplify alignments and is particularly useful when ground scans are combined with drone footage. For this, GNSS corrections, coordinate systems, recording, and processing must be coordinated with each other. RTK does not automatically calibrate two datasets; control points and the appropriate fusion workflow remain important. XGRIDS describes the Aerial Ground Map Fusion in the Design4real article as well as in the XGRIDS documentation.
When is the K2 worth it compared to the PortalCam?
The K2 is more expensive than the PortalCam. If media production and the best possible visual effect are the only criteria, one would probably prefer the PortalCam. The PortalCam is oriented towards this visual workflow and is suitable for photorealistic scenes, XR experiences, and the presentation of real-life locations.
The higher price of the K2 brings another benefit: a significantly denser point cloud than with the PortalCam, more precision for technical capture, and integrated RTK for suitable outdoor and alignment workflows. The K2 is therefore a versatile choice for projects where media production and spatial measurement data come together. For purely surveying applications, suitability should always be checked against accuracy requirements, acceptance, and processing.
Our PortalCam Review describes the visual capture approach. For a comparison of the next higher scanner class, please see our page on the XGRIDS Lixel L3. For the predecessor, we also have our Lixel-K1 Test.
Data workflow and typical projects
Depending on the project, point cloud, mesh, or Gaussian Splat can be created from a single image. A point cloud represents the spatial geometry and is important for further technical processing. A mesh is suitable for classic 3D pipelines. Gaussian splats provide the visual effect of the image and are suitable for interactive, photorealistic scenes. The specific processing depends on the software version, license, and export format.
Typical applications are in architecture and construction, asset documentation, digital twins, cultural heritage, XR, and media production. The K2 is particularly interesting when a project requires both compelling visuals and denser spatial data. For pure visualization, the PortalCam can be the more suitable and more cost-effective solution, despite its lower point cloud density.
Frequently asked questions about the Lixel K2
The K2 offers significantly improved image quality compared to the K1. In our opinion, it still does not achieve the visual quality of the PortalCam. The K2, however, provides a significantly denser point cloud.
Yes. The K2 can be used for media productions, just as the K1 that Clarence Dadson has already used for that purpose. If visual quality is the only thing that matters, the more affordable PortalCam is probably the more obvious choice.
The K2 is more expensive, but it offers a denser point cloud, more precision for technical surveying, and integrated RTK. This is particularly worthwhile when media production and surveying-related data come together.
RTK can improve the coordinate reference for outdoor shots, alignments, and the combination of ground-based and drone data. For this, the scan must be integrated into the appropriate Aerial Ground Map Fusion workflow and a common coordinate system.
