Software Comparison

Leica Cyclone vs FARO SCENE: Point Cloud Processing Comparison

An expert comparison to help you choose the right equipment for your project.

Feature	Leica Cyclone	FARO SCENE
Registration	Visual + target-based	Automated + target-based
Accuracy	Survey-grade (<2mm)	Survey-grade (<2mm)
Cloud Viewing	TruView (web-based)	WebShare Cloud
CAD Integration	CloudWorx for AutoCAD, Revit	Export-based
Modeling Tools	Cyclone 3DR	-
Mobile App	Cyclone FIELD 360	FARO Stream
Hardware Support	All Leica scanners	FARO scanners optimized
Ecosystem	Leica Reality Capture	FARO Sphere XG
Service Pricing	$6,700+ per module (Cyclone REGISTER 360)	$3,500-5,500 (SCENE base + modules)

Option A Leica Geosystems

Leica Cyclone

Industry-Standard Point Cloud Registration Suite

Leica Cyclone is the industry-standard point cloud processing suite with 25+ years of development. Comprising Cyclone REGISTER 360, Cyclone 3DR, and CloudWorx plugins, it delivers professional registration, visualization, modeling, and direct CAD integration for AEC professionals.

Pros

25+ years of industry-standard development
Seamless Leica hardware integration
CloudWorx plugins for AutoCAD, Revit, Navisworks
TruView web-based sharing included
Cyclone FIELD 360 for on-site QC
Comprehensive training and support network

Cons

Premium pricing ($6,700+ per module)
Primarily optimized for Leica scanners
Multiple modules needed for full workflow
Steeper learning curve for new users
Less intuitive UI than modern alternatives

Best For

Leica scanner workflowsAEC professionalsSurvey-grade projectsEnterprise organizations

Option B FARO Technologies

FARO SCENE

Fast Automated Point Cloud Processing

FARO SCENE is point cloud processing software optimized for FARO Focus scanners. Features automated registration, on-site processing via FARO Stream, and web-based sharing through SCENE 2go and WebShare Cloud. Known for speed and ease of use with intuitive workflows.

Pros

Fast automated registration
FARO Stream for on-site processing
Intuitive user interface
WebShare Cloud for easy collaboration
Lower learning curve than Cyclone
Strong FARO hardware optimization

Cons

Less robust CAD plugin ecosystem
Primarily designed for FARO scanners
WebShare has ongoing subscription costs
Fewer advanced modeling tools than Cyclone 3DR
Smaller third-party integration options

Best For

FARO scanner workflowsRapid project turnaroundConstruction documentationTeams new to scanning

Our Expert Verdict

Depends on Your Needs

Leica Cyclone is the established industry standard with superior CAD integration via CloudWorx plugins—ideal for AEC firms using Leica hardware. FARO SCENE offers faster, more intuitive workflows with on-site processing—perfect for FARO users prioritizing speed.

Choose Leica Cyclone if...

Choose Leica Cyclone for Leica scanner workflows, projects requiring CloudWorx CAD plugins, and enterprise organizations with established Leica ecosystems.

Choose FARO SCENE if...

Choose FARO SCENE for FARO scanner workflows, rapid turnaround projects, construction documentation, and teams seeking intuitive, automated processing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Cyclone process FARO scans?

Cyclone can import E57 files from any scanner including FARO. However, it is optimized for Leica hardware and some features like VIS integration only work with Leica scanners.

Can SCENE process Leica scans?

SCENE can import E57 files from Leica scanners, but automated features and workflows are optimized for FARO Focus scanners. Third-party data works but less efficiently.

Which has better CAD integration?

Leica Cyclone with CloudWorx plugins offers native AutoCAD, Revit, and Navisworks integration. FARO SCENE relies primarily on file export, though integration is improving.

Which is easier to learn?

FARO SCENE generally has a more intuitive interface and faster learning curve. Leica Cyclone is more complex but offers deeper functionality once mastered.

Which is faster for processing?

FARO SCENE with automated registration is typically faster for straightforward projects. Cyclone REGISTER 360 with VIS can be very fast for Leica RTC360 data specifically.

Which does THE FUTURE 3D use?

We use Cyclone for Leica RTC360 and BLK360 projects due to seamless integration. We use SCENE for FARO Focus Premium projects. Each excels with its native hardware.

Equipment Used