Creating floor plans and virtual tours used to require expensive software and high-end hardware. But thanks to advancements in mobile technology and augmented reality (AR), professionals and enthusiasts alike can now craft detailed layouts and immersive walk-throughs directly from their smartphones or tablets.
TLDR: Modern AR and mobile tools have made it easier than ever to create professional-quality floor plans and virtual tours. Apps like Magicplan, RoomScan Pro, and Camera Measure reduce the learning curve while increasing accuracy and customization. Whether you’re a real estate agent, interior designer, contractor, or homeowner, there’s a solution tailored to your needs. Here’s a look at six of the best options currently available.
1. Magicplan
Magicplan is a pioneer in the mobile floor plan industry. It combines the power of AR with intuitive design tools to let users measure, sketch, and generate 2D and 3D floor plans from any mobile device.
- Platform: iOS and Android
- Key Features:
- Room scanning using AR for fast dimension capture
- Customize floor plans with objects, annotations, and notes
- Generate virtual tours and 3D models
- Export in various formats like PDF, JPG, and DXF
- Best For: Contractors, real estate professionals, and interior designers
Magicplan also integrates well with other construction and design software, making it a solid choice for collaborative workflows.
Image not found in postmeta2. RoomScan Pro
RoomScan Pro by Locometric is known for its simplicity and speed. It has a unique AR mode that allows users to “walk the room” holding their phone, automatically translating those movements into an accurate floor plan.
- Platform: iOS only
- Key Features:
- Multiple scanning modes: AR, manual, and laser
- Wall touch scanning – touch your phone to each wall for measurement
- Outdoor and garden layout support
- CAD and image file exports
- Best For: DIY home renovators and architecture students
Its intuitive interface makes it accessible even to users without prior drafting experience.
3. PLNAR
PLNAR is an all-in-one solution for custom floor plan creation using AR-enhanced measurements. It turns any smartphone or tablet into a precise measuring tool and quickly builds a digital model of a space.
- Platform: iOS
- Key Features:
- Real-time AR-based 3D room capture
- Detailed project reports and damage claims features
- Professional export formats including JSON
- Best For: Insurance agents, remodeling professionals, and contractors
PLNAR is also popular in the insurance industry for creating accurate interior claims reports with minimal physical interaction.
4. CamToPlan
CamToPlan uses ARCore and ARKit (depending on the device) to make real-world measurements and floor mapping fast and interactive. Its real-time rendering transforms a simple point-and-shoot activity into actionable design data.
- Platform: iOS and Android
- Key Features:
- Draw floor plans by pointing your camera
- Measure distances diagonally and around obstacles
- Real-time 2D visualization
- Export options including DXF and PNG
- Best For: Construction teams, painters, and flooring specialists
Compared to others, CamToPlan is focused more on real-time measurement rather than finished visualizations, making it ideal for field workers who need quick data.
5. MagicMeasure (by ARMeasure)
MagicMeasure is a versatile AR ruler app that helps users capture room dimensions without needing any other tools. Though not as full-featured as Magicplan, it’s a handy measuring assistant for quick tasks.
- Platform: Android
- Key Features:
- Simple interface optimized for AR-powered measurement
- Realtime distance calculation
- Share measurements via screenshot or PDF
- Best For: Quick measurements and handyman services
It may not create full plans, but it’s reliable when speed and convenience are all that matter.
6. ARPlan 3D
ARPlan 3D offers a unique floor planner interface that creates both 2D blueprints and 3D room models using augmented reality. The app lets users measure heights, doors, and windows for a more comprehensive understanding of a space.
- Platform: iOS and Android
- Key Features:
- 2D and 3D visualization tools
- Instant measurement via mobile camera
- Room height detection
- Best For: Homeowners and interior decorators
It’s particularly appealing for those who want to visualize furniture layout and design choices before committing.
Choosing the Right App
Here are some quick suggestions based on use cases:
- Real Estate Professionals: Try Magicplan or ARPlan 3D for high-quality visual walk-throughs.
- Contractors & Handypeople: Go with CamToPlan or MagicMeasure for quick but accurate job site measurements.
- Insurance Adjusters: PLNAR provides detailed report generation and professional data output.
- DIY Users: RoomScan Pro is beginner-friendly and fast—with high accuracy.
Conclusion
From Magicplan’s all-in-one planning suite to the simple utility of apps like CamToPlan, AR and mobile tools for floor plan creation have redefined how professionals work and how homeowners renovate. Whether you need quick measurements or immersive 3D layouts, there’s a mobile solution just right for you. As mobile technology continues to evolve, we can only expect more functionality and precision in years to come.
FAQ
- Q: Can these apps replace professional architects?
A: No. These tools are valuable for conceptual design, estimation, and visualization, but complex architectural plans should still be handled by professionals. - Q: Are all of these tools free?
A: Most offer free versions with limited features. Premium functions typically require a subscription or one-time payment. - Q: Do I need a LiDAR-enabled phone?
A: Not necessarily. While some apps gain accuracy from LiDAR, many also use standard phone cameras with ARKit or ARCore integration. - Q: Can I share my finished floor plans?
A: Yes. Most tools allow you to export and share your designs in various file formats including PDF, JPG, and CAD files. - Q: Which app is best for creating virtual tours?
A: Magicplan and ARPlan 3D offer solid virtual walkthrough options that are easy to generate from your mobile device.
