Enscape is a real-time rendering and virtual reality plugin that works with various CAD/BIM software, such as Revit, SketchUp, Rhino, Archicad, and Vectorworks. It allows users to create realistic and immersive visualizations of their designs in seconds. The main advantage of Enscape is its integration with the design software. Users can access Enscape directly from their CAD program and see their models rendered in high-quality and lifelike visuals. Users also appreciate that Enscape updates the rendering in real-time, reflecting any changes made in the design software. This feature enables users to explore and test different design options and scenarios with minimum effort. Enscape is easy to use and requires no additional training. Users can click the ‘Start’ button and instantly see their models transformed into realistic renderings. The main issue is that Enscape requires high hardware specifications to run smoothly. Enscape requires a Windows 10 or higher operating system and a dedicated graphics card with 4GB of video memory that supports Vulkan 1.1. These hardware requirements are not met by most mobile devices, such as smartphones or tablets. Therefore, Enscape cannot run on mobile devices. Users with low-end computers may also experience lagging or crashing issues when using Enscape. Enscape also does not have a mobile version or app that users can use for on-site work or presentations.
What is Enscape?
Enscape software allows designers to create realistic renderings and virtual reality simulations of their projects. Enscape integrates with popular design tools such as Revit, SketchUp, Rhino, Archicad, and Vectorworks. Enscape is used by over 85 of the top 100 architecture firms in over 150 countries. Enscape enables designers to explore concepts in real-time, communicate their design intent clearly, and present their work to clients and stakeholders. Enscape also offers atmosphere settings, custom assets, collaborative annotations, orthographical views, BIM info, material editor, view management, and batch exports. Enscape has a library of over 3200 assets that can be used to add detail and emotion to the design scenes. Enscape is developed and maintained by Enscape GmbH, a company founded in 2013 and based in Karlsruhe, Germany, with an office in New York, United States. Enscape is part of Chaos, a world leader in 3D visualization technology that also develops products such as V-Ray, Cosmos, Phoenix, Player, Scans, Vantage, and Corona. Chaos merged with Enscape acquired Cylindo in 2022, and acquired AXYZ Design in 2023.
The ArchitectureLab Verdict: Should You Buy Enscape?
Yes, Enscape is highly recommended for architects looking to enhance their visualization workflow. Firstly, Enscape is a real-time rendering and virtual reality plugin for Autodesk Revit, SketchUp, Rhino, and Archicad that allows architects and designers to quickly create photorealistic renderings and immersive walkthroughs of their projects. Secondly, The rendering quality in Enscape, while not as advanced as some competing renderers, is quite good for most architectural visualization needs. Materials, lighting, and reflections are rendered with a high degree of realism. The graphics can be further enhanced with post-processing in Enscape’s included tools. Thirdly, Enscape excels at VR workflows. It has robust support for most major VR headsets, allowing architects to immerse themselves in their designs. The VR mode enables intuitive walkthroughs and easy presentation of projects to clients. This can be a major advantage over static renderings. Lastly, at $469 (€426.79, £408.03) per license, Enscape is competitively priced compared to other real-time architectural visualization tools. It also offers volume discounts for studios. There is a free trial available to evaluate the software.
Which company develops Enscape?
Enscape GmbH is a company that develops and maintains Enscape software for real-time rendering and virtual reality. Enscape GmbH was founded in 2013 in Karlsruhe, Germany. The company has an office in New York, United States, employing over 100 people. Enscape GmbH aims to create a tool that allows designers to create realistic visualizations of architecture with low complexity. Enscape GmbH works closely with its customers and partners to improve the software and provide support and training. Enscape GmbH also offers a blog, a forum, and a knowledge base on its website. Enscape GmbH is part of Chaos, a world leader in 3D visualization technology. Chaos merged with Enscape GmbH, acquired Cylindo in 2022, and acquired AXYZ Design in 2023. Chaos also develops products such as V-Ray, Cosmos, Phoenix, Player, Scans, Vantage, and Corona. Chaos has a vision to empower artists and designers across the globe with creative freedom and efficiency.
On what platforms does Enscape run?
Enscape runs on Windows and Mac operating systems. Enscape is compatible with five design tools: Revit, SketchUp, Rhino, Archicad, and Vectorworks. Enscape plugs directly into these tools, allowing users to visualize their projects in 3D without exporting or importing files. Enscape supports various export options for sharing and presenting designs. Users can create web standalone, panoramas, still images, and animations. Users can also export their projects as executable files that can be viewed on any Windows device. Enscape enables users to create QR codes for easy and accessible project exploration. Enscape offers a VR feature that helps users and clients experience their projects’ full scale and immersion. Enscape supports Oculus Rift, HTC Vive, and Windows Mixed Reality headsets. Users can switch to VR mode with one click and explore their designs in a realistic and interactive environment. Enscape has a library of over 3200 assets that can be used to add detail and emotion to the design scenes. The assets include furniture, plants, people, vehicles, and more. Users can also import custom assets from other sources. Enscape updates the asset library regularly with new and improved models.
When was Enscape first launched?
Enscape was first launched in 2015 by Enscape GmbH, a company based in Karlsruhe, Germany. Enscape was initially a plugin for Revit but later expanded to support other design tools such as SketchUp, Rhino, Archicad, and Vectorworks. Enscape’s goal is to create a tool that allows designers to create realistic visualizations of architecture with low complexity. The latest version of Enscape is 3.5.6, released on January 13, 2024. This version introduces the Adjustable Asset series, a selection of assets with modifiable functions, offering more flexibility when working with assets. It also includes improvements to lighting, reflection, alpha channel export, and asset editing. Enscape 3.5.6 supports Windows and Mac operating systems and VR headsets such as Oculus Rift, HTC Vive, and Windows Mixed Reality.
What are the licensing options available for Enscape?
Enscape has two types of licenses: fixed-seat and floating. A fixed-seat license is limited to one computer. To use it on another computer, the user has to remove it first. A fixed-seat license can be purchased for a monthly or yearly subscription. A floating license can be used on multiple computers if the number of Enscape windows does not exceed the number of licenses. A floating license can be activated and switched between computers easily. A floating license is only available for a yearly subscription. These types of licenses can be bought directly from the Enscape website.
Enscape also offers educational licenses for students and educators. These licenses are free and valid for six months. They can be renewed as long as the user is eligible. Educational licenses have the same features as the regular licenses. To apply for an educational license, the user has to fill out a form and provide proof of their status. Enscape provides software updates, automatic renewals, and expert customer support for all its subscribers. The users can always access the latest features and software versions. They can also cancel their subscriptions at any time. The users can contact the Enscape customer support team for questions or issues.
Enscape has partners in over 60 countries that can offer support in the local language and group discounts. The users can connect with one of the Enscape partners if they prefer to buy the licenses from them. The Enscape partners can also provide training and consulting services for the users.
What is the cost of Enscape?
Enscape has four pricing editions: free trial, monthly, yearly, and educational. The free trial lasts 14 days and allows users to test all the software’s features. The monthly edition costs $58.9 (€53.6, £51.24) and offers a fixed-seat license that can be used on one computer. The yearly edition costs $469 (€426.79, £408.03) per year and offers a choice between a fixed-seat license or a floating license. The fixed-seat license can be used on one computer, while the floating license can be used on multiple computers as long as the number of opened Enscape windows does not exceed the number of licenses. The educational edition is free and valid for 6 months for students and educators. It has the same features as the regular editions and can be renewed as long as the user is eligible.
All the editions include software updates, automatic renewals, and expert customer support. The users can always access the latest features and software versions. They can also cancel their subscriptions at any time. The users can contact the Enscape customer support team for questions or issues. The users can buy the licenses directly from the Enscape website. They can also apply for an educational license by completing a form and providing proof of their status. The users can pay with a credit card, PayPal, or bank transfer. The users will receive an email confirmation and an invoice after the purchase.
How can Enscape help architects and designers?
Enscape helps architects and designers to create realistic and immersive visualizations of their projects. Firstly, Enscape saves time and resources. Enscape plugs directly into the design tools that the users are familiar with, such as Revit, SketchUp, Rhino, Archicad, and Vectorworks. Enscape does not require any exporting or importing of files. Enscape renders the projects in real-time, allowing users to see the changes instantly. Enscape also has a library of over 3200 assets that can be used to add detail and emotion to the scenes. Secondly, Enscape enhances communication and collaboration. Enscape supports various export options for sharing and presenting the projects. Users can create web standalone, panoramas, still images, and animations. Users can also export their projects as executable files that can be viewed on any Windows device. Enscape enables users to create QR codes for easy and accessible project exploration. Enscape allows users to collaborate with their team members and clients in real-time using the collaborative annotation feature. Thirdly, Enscape improves quality and creativity. Enscape offers a high-quality rendering engine that produces realistic and stunning images. Enscape has advanced features such as global illumination, reflection, shadow, and ambient occlusion. Enscape supports different modes and settings that can change the mood and atmosphere of the scenes, such as daylight, artificial light, fog, wind, and sound. Enscape also has a VR feature that helps users and clients experience their projects’ full scale and immersion. Enscape supports Oculus Rift, HTC Vive, and Windows Mixed Reality headsets. Lastly, Enscape is easy to use and learn. Enscape has a simple and intuitive user interface that can be customized to suit the user’s preferences. Enscape has a comprehensive online documentation and tutorial section to help users learn more about the software. Enscape also has a friendly and helpful community forum where users can ask questions, share feedback, and exchange ideas. Enscape also provides subscribers with software updates, automatic renewals, and expert customer support.
What is Enscape output, and in which format?
Enscape can produce different types of outputs for sharing and presenting the projects. The outputs can be categorized into images, videos, and interactive. Images are the simplest and most common output of Enscape. Users can create still images of their scenes in high resolution and quality. Users can adjust the settings and effects of the images, such as brightness, contrast, saturation, depth of field, and color temperature. Users can also add watermarks and annotations to the images. Images can be exported in PNG, JPEG, or EXR formats.
Videos are another output of Enscape that can showcase the dynamics and animation of the scenes. Users can create videos of their scenes by recording their camera movements and actions. Users can also add soundtracks and voice-overs to the videos. Users can edit the settings and effects of the videos, such as speed, resolution, frame rate, and motion blur. Videos can be exported in MP4 or WEBM formats.
Interactive outputs are the most immersive and engaging output of Enscape. Users can create interactive outputs, allowing viewers to explore and interact with the scenes. Users can create web standalone, panoramas, QR codes, and executable files. Web standalone are web-based outputs that can be viewed on any browser. Panoramas are 360-degree outputs that can be viewed on any device. QR codes are scannable outputs that can be viewed on mobile devices. Executable files are standalone outputs that can be viewed on any Windows device. Interactive outputs can also support virtual reality headsets like Oculus Rift, HTC Vive, and Windows Mixed Reality.
Is the Enscape’s output format compatible with other industry-standard software?
Yes, Enscape’s output format is compatible with some industry-standard software, but not all. Enscape can export its models in two main formats: VRscene and EXE. VRscene is a file format that can be imported into V-Ray, a popular rendering software for 3DS Max and Cinema 4D. This allows users to transfer their Enscape data to V-Ray and use its advanced rendering features and settings, but VRscene is incompatible with other rendering software, such as Lumion, Twinmotion, or Unreal Engine. EXE is a file format that can create a standalone executable file that can be viewed on any Windows device. This allows users to share and present their Enscape models without requiring Enscape or the CAD/BIM software to run’ however, EXE is incompatible with any other software, as it is a self-contained file that cannot be edited or modified.
Enscape can also export its models in other formats, such as images, videos, and panoramas. Images can be exported in PNG, JPEG, EXR, or TGA formats. These formats are widely supported by most image editing software, such as Photoshop, GIMP, or Affinity Photo. Videos can be exported in MP4 or WEBM formats. Most video editing software widely supported these formats, such as Premiere Pro, DaVinci Resolve, and Filmora. Panoramas can be exported in mono or stereo formats. Most VR viewing software widely supported these formats, such as Google Cardboard, Samsung Gear VR, or Oculus Go. However, these formats are incompatible with any 3D modeling or rendering software, as they are raster images that cannot be modified or manipulated.
What file formats does Enscape support for exporting and importing designs?
Enscape can import models from various CAD/BIM software, such as Revit, SketchUp, Rhino, Archicad, and Vectorworks. Enscape supports the native file formats of this software, such as RVT, SKP, 3DM, PLA, and VWX. Enscape can also import models from 3D modeling software like Blender, 3ds Max, or Maya. Enscape supports the common file formats for 3D models, such as OBJ, FBX, DAE, or STL.
Enscape can export its models in different formats, depending on the purpose and the audience. Enscape can export its models in VRscene, EXE, PNG, JPEG, EXR, TGA, MP4, WEBM, mono, and stereo formats. VRscene is a file format that can be imported into V-Ray, a rendering software for 3ds Max and Cinema 4D. EXE is a file format that can create a standalone executable file that can be viewed on any Windows device. PNG, JPEG, EXR, and TGA are file formats for images. MP4 and WEBM are file formats for videos. Mono and stereo are file formats for panoramas.
Enscape can also export its models in web standalone, panoramas, and QR codes. Web standalone are web-based outputs that can be viewed on any browser. Panoramas are 360-degree outputs that can be viewed on any device. QR codes are scannable outputs that can be viewed on mobile devices. These outputs are not file formats but rather ways of sharing and presenting the models. These outputs can also support virtual reality headsets like Oculus Rift, HTC Vive, and Windows Mixed Reality.
Is Enscape considered user-friendly for beginner users?
Yes, Enscape is considered user-friendly for beginner users. Firstly, Enscape has a simple and intuitive interface that does not require much learning or training. Users can easily access the Enscape toolbar from their CAD/BIM software and start rendering their models with one click. Users can also adjust the settings and effects of their renderings, such as lighting, materials, weather, and time of day, with sliders and buttons. Users can also navigate and explore their scenes with keyboard and mouse controls or use virtual reality headsets for a more immersive experience. Secondly, Enscape has a fast and reliable performance that does not compromise the quality of the renderings. Users do not have to wait for long rendering times or deal with complex rendering processes. Enscape renders the models in real-time, meaning that any changes made in the CAD/BIM software are instantly reflected in the Enscape window. Users can also export their renderings in various formats, such as images, videos, panoramas, web standalone, and executable files, with a few clicks. Lastly, Enscape has a supportive and helpful community that provides resources and assistance for beginner users. Users can access the Enscape website, where they can find tutorials, guides, tips, and tricks on how to use Enscape effectively. Users can join the Enscape forum to ask questions, share feedback, and showcase their work. Users can also contact the Enscape support team, who are always ready to answer any queries and solve any issues.
What are the rendering capabilities of Enscape?
Enscape allows users to create realistic and immersive visualizations of their designs in seconds. It has many features and benefits that make it a powerful rendering tool. Enscape can render models in different modes and formats, depending on the purpose and the audience. It can render models in VRscene, EXE, PNG, JPEG, EXR, TGA, MP4, WEBM, mono, and stereo formats. It can also render models in web standalone, panoramas, and QR codes. These formats can be used to share and present the models on various devices and platforms. Enscape can also enhance the quality and realism of the renderings with various settings and effects. It can adjust the renderings’ lighting, materials, weather, and time of day with sliders and buttons. It can also add detail and emotion to the renderings with high-quality assets and materials. Enscape can also support virtual reality headsets, such as Oculus Rift, HTC Vive, and Windows Mixed Reality, for a more immersive experience.
Does Enscape include Building Information Modeling (BIM) capabilities for better project management?
Yes, Enscape includes Building Information Modeling (BIM) capabilities for better project management. It is a real-time rendering and virtual reality plugin that integrates into building modeling software, such as Revit, Archicad, and Vectorworks. It supports the native file formats of this software, such as RVT, PLA, and VWX. It can also display all relevant BIM data in the Enscape window by clicking on any single or grouped elements in the scene. It can also sync issues live between Enscape and BIM Track, a cloud-based BIM collaboration platform.
Enscape can help users collaborate and communicate better with their team and external stakeholders by using BIM and Enscape. Users can create realistic and immersive visualizations of their designs with various rendering modes and formats, such as images, videos, panoramas, web standalone, and executable files. Users can also use virtual reality headsets like Oculus Rift, HTC Vive, and Windows Mixed Reality for a more immersive experience. Users can also capture and share feedback with annotations, which can be retrieved in popular CAD and BIM tools.
Enscape can also enhance the project workflow and decision-making by using BIM and Enscape. Users can get a more accurate overview of the finished product by exploring their design model in an immersive environment. Users can also adjust the settings and effects of their renderings, such as lighting, materials, weather, and time of day, with sliders and buttons. Users can add detail and emotion to their renderings with high-quality assets and materials. Users can also use Enscape to visualize their BIM model to reduce project completion time.
How does Enscape facilitate collaboration abilities among teams?
Enscape facilitates collaboration among teams by enabling users to share and present their models on various devices and platforms, capture and share feedback with annotations, support the native file formats of various CAD/BIM software, and improve the project workflow and decision-making. Firstly, Enscape enables users to share and present their models on various devices and platforms with different rendering modes and formats. Users can export their models in VRscene, EXE, PNG, JPEG, EXR, TGA, MP4, WEBM, mono, and stereo formats. Users can also export their models in web standalone, panoramas, and QR codes. These formats can be used to share and present the models on desktops, laptops, tablets, smartphones, and virtual reality headsets.
Secondly, Enscape allows users to capture and share feedback with annotations, which can be retrieved in popular CAD and BIM tools. Users can add notes, comments, and suggestions to their models, which can be seen by other team members and stakeholders. Users can also sync issues live between Enscape and BIM Track, a cloud-based BIM collaboration platform. Users can also use Enscape’s batch rendering feature to create multiple renderings with different views and settings, which can be used for comparison and evaluation.
Thirdly, Enscape supports the native file formats of various CAD/BIM software, such as RVT, PLA, and VWX. Enscape can also display all relevant BIM data in the Enscape window by clicking on any single or grouped elements in the scene. Enscape can also render the models in real-time, meaning that any changes made in the CAD/BIM software are instantly reflected in the Enscape window. This ensures that the models are always up-to-date and consistent among the team members and stakeholders.
Lastly, Enscape improves the project workflow and decision-making by using BIM and Enscape. Users can get a more accurate overview of the finished product by exploring their design model in an immersive environment. Users can also adjust the settings and effects of their renderings, such as lighting, materials, weather, and time of day, with sliders and buttons. Users can add detail and emotion to their renderings with high-quality assets and materials. Users can also use Enscape to visualize their BIM model to reduce project completion time.
What are the minimum hardware requirements for running Enscape?
The minimum hardware requirements for running Enscape are a Windows 10 or higher operating system, a dedicated GPU with 4GB of VRAM that supports Vulkan 1.1, a CPU and RAM that meet the requirements of the CAD/BIM software, an SSD with at least 20GB of free space, and a fast and stable internet connection. To run Enscape, users need a Windows 10 or higher operating system and a dedicated graphics card (GPU) with 4GB of video memory (VRAM) that supports Vulkan 1.1. The GPU can be NVIDIA or AMD, but it must be from a recent series. For NVIDIA, the GPU must be GeForce GTX 900 series / Quadro M series or newer. For AMD, the GPU must be Radeon RX 400 series / equivalent Radeon Pro series or newer. Users also need to install the latest available drivers for their GPU. The GPU is the most important component for running Enscape, as it performs most of the calculations for real-time rendering. The GPU’s clock speed (processor) and VRAM affect the rendering performance and quality. A higher clock speed and more VRAM can improve the speed and resolution of the renderings. For virtual reality (VR), users need a GPU with at least 8GB of VRAM and a high clock speed.
The CPU and RAM of the computer are also important for running Enscape, but they are less critical than the GPU. The CPU and RAM mainly affect the loading times of the models and the assets. A good CPU and RAM can speed up the loading process and reduce the waiting time. The minimum CPU and RAM requirements depend on the users’ CAD/BIM software. Users can check the system requirements of their CAD/BIM software on their official websites. The storage of the computer is another factor that users need to consider for running Enscape. Users need a solid state drive (SSD) with at least 20GB of free space to install Enscape and store the models and the assets. An SSD can improve the loading times and the performance of Enscape compared to a hard disk drive (HDD). Users also need a fast and stable internet connection to download and update Enscape and access the online asset library.
How frequently is the Enscape updated?
Enscape releases new versions every few months, usually with a major version number followed by a minor version number. For example, the latest version is Enscape 3.5, which was released in November 2023. Enscape also releases service packs between the major versions, which are updates that fix bugs and improve stability and performance. For example, the most recent service pack is Enscape 3.5.6, which was released in December 2023. Enscape notifies users when a new update is available, either through the Enscape toolbar or the Enscape window. Users can also check the latest version on the Enscape website or the Enscape forum. Users can download and install the new update for free with a valid license. Users can skip an update if they prefer to stay on their current version. Enscape aims to provide frequent updates to keep up with the latest technology and user feedback.
Is there a mobile version or app available for Enscape for on-site work and presentations?
No, there is no mobile version or app available for Enscape for on-site work and presentations. Enscape is a real-time rendering and virtual reality plugin that works with various CAD/BIM software, such as Revit, SketchUp, Rhino, Archicad, and Vectorworks. Enscape requires a Windows 10 or higher operating system and a dedicated graphics card with 4GB of video memory that supports Vulkan 1.1. These hardware requirements are not met by most mobile devices, such as smartphones or tablets. Enscape cannot run on mobile devices. Enscape offers alternatives for users to share their work with clients or colleagues on mobile devices. The first option is generating 360° panoramas in stereo and mono. They can be saved to a file or uploaded to the cloud, accessible via weblink. The panoramas can be viewed on desktop computers or mobile devices with a web browser. The other option is to create QR codes for easy scanning and project exploration. Users can scan the QR codes with their mobile devices and view the panoramas in a web browser or a VR headset.
What are the advantages of Enscape?
Listed below are the advantages of using Enscape:
- Enscape plugs directly into their design software: Enscape is a real-time rendering and virtual reality plugin that works with various CAD/BIM software, such as Revit, SketchUp, Rhino, Archicad, and Vectorworks. This means that users do not need to export or import files, learn a new interface, or switch between programs. Users can access Enscape from their design software and see their models transformed into realistic and immersive visualizations in seconds.
- Enscape allows users to see their architectural rendering in one click: Enscape is easy to use and requires no additional training. Users can simply click the ‘Start’ button and instantly see their models rendered in high-quality, lifelike visuals. Users can also adjust their settings and preferences to suit their needs and preferences. Enscape updates the rendering in real-time, reflecting any changes made in the design software.
- Enscape helps users validate their ideas quickly: Enscape enables users to explore and test different design options and scenarios with minimum effort. Users can change the materials, lighting, colors, and other aspects of their models and see how they affect the appearance and performance of their designs. Users can also use virtual reality to walk around their projects and experience them from different perspectives. Enscape allows users to validate their ideas and make informed decisions.
- Enscape helps users shorten the trial and feedback loop: Enscape facilitates communication and collaboration among users, clients, and stakeholders. Users can easily share their work by generating various assets, such as images, videos, panoramas, or web links. Users can also create QR codes for easy scanning and project exploration. Enscape helps users to present their designs clearly and convincingly and to receive feedback and suggestions to improve their work.
- Enscape is excellent value for money: Enscape offers many features and benefits for a reasonable price. Compared to similar software, such as Lumion, which is three times the price of Enscape, Enscape provides a fast and efficient rendering and visualization solution that integrates seamlessly with the design software. Enscape also includes virtual reality, high-quality assets, cloud service, and other features at no additional cost. Enscape is a great investment for users who want to create stunning, realistic renderings and visualizations.
What are the disadvantages of Enscape?
Listed below are the advantages of using Enscape:
- Enscape requires high hardware specifications: Enscape is a real-time rendering and virtual reality plugin that works with various CAD/BIM software, such as Revit, SketchUp, Rhino, Archicad, and Vectorworks. Enscape requires a Windows 10 or higher operating system and a dedicated graphics card with 4GB of video memory that supports Vulkan 1.1. These hardware requirements are not met by most mobile devices, such as smartphones or tablets. Enscape cannot run on mobile devices. Users with low-end computers may also experience lagging or crashing issues when using Enscape.
- Enscape has a limited library of assets: Enscape provides a library of assets that users can add to their models, such as furniture, plants, people, vehicles, and animals; however, the asset library is smaller than the competition. Users may not find the assets they need for their specific projects or preferences. Users can import custom assets from other sources, which may take more time and effort. Enscape also does not support moving assets, such as vehicles or people, that can follow a certain path.
- Enscape has some issues with textures and materials: Enscape renders the textures and materials applied to the models in the design software; however, some users have reported that Enscape does not read relative paths for textures, so they are often broken. Users may have to re-apply the textures manually or use absolute paths. Enscape also does not support some advanced materials, such as displacement maps, bump maps, or transparency maps. Users may not be able to achieve the desired level of detail or realism for their models.
- Enscape has some limitations with animations and panoramas: Enscape allows users to create animations and panoramas of their models, which can be used for presentations or sharing. However, Enscape has some limitations with these features. For example, Enscape does not have a way to do batch 360 renderings or animations, meaning users must render each view individually. Enscape also does not have a lot of options for editing the animations, such as adding transitions, effects, or soundtracks. Enscape also has some difficulties calculating the exposure in 360 images, which depends on where the user is looking when the 360 render starts.
- Enscape does not have a mobile version or app: Enscape is a desktop software that can only run on Windows computers. Enscape does not have a mobile version or app that users can use for on-site work or presentations. Users who want to share their work with clients or colleagues on mobile devices have to use some alternatives, such as generating 360 panoramas, uploading them to the cloud, and accessing them via web links or QR codes. However, these alternatives do not provide the same interactive and immersive experience as Enscape. Users may also need an internet connection to access the cloud service or the web links.
What do customer reviews and feedback say about Enscape?
Enscape has received many positive customer reviews, highlighting some of its advantages and disadvantages. The most praised feature of Enscape is its integration with the design software. Users love that they can access Enscape directly from their CAD program and see their models rendered in high-quality and lifelike visuals. Users also appreciate that Enscape updates the rendering in real-time, reflecting any changes made in the design software. This feature enables users to explore and test different design options and scenarios with minimum effort. Enscape is easy to use and requires no additional training. Users can click the ‘Start’ button and instantly see their models transformed into realistic renderings. The other benefit of Enscape is its speed and performance. Users report that Enscape renders the models very fast, using NVIDIA’s RTX technology to calculate lighting and reflections. Users can also adjust their settings and preferences to suit their needs and preferences. Enscape also offers various features and assets to enhance the visualizations, such as virtual reality, 360-degree panoramas, animated walkthroughs, web links, QR codes, and cloud service. Users can easily share their work with others by generating these assets. Enscape also offers a reasonable price compared to similar software, such as Lumion, which is three times the price of Enscape.
The main issue is that Enscape requires high hardware specifications to run smoothly. Enscape requires a Windows 10 or higher operating system and a dedicated graphics card with 4GB of video memory that supports Vulkan 1.1. These hardware requirements are not met by most mobile devices, such as smartphones or tablets. Enscape cannot run on mobile devices. Users with low-end computers may also experience lagging or crashing issues when using Enscape. Enscape also does not have a mobile version or app that users can use for on-site work or presentations. The other problem with Enscape is its limited library of assets that users can add to their models, such as furniture, plants, people, vehicles, and animals. Users may not find the assets they need for their specific projects or preferences. Users can import custom assets from other sources, which may take more time and effort. Enscape also does not support moving assets, such as vehicles or people, that can follow a certain path. Enscape also has some issues with textures and materials, such as not reading relative paths for textures or not supporting some advanced materials, such as displacement maps, bump maps, or transparency maps.
What other architecture software options are there?
Listed below are some of the other architectural software options apart from Enscape:
- Cedreo: Cedreo is a web-based software that allows architects, designers, builders, and remodelers to create 2D and 3D floor plans, renderings, and virtual tours. It helps users save time, reduce costs, and improve client satisfaction by streamlining the design process and facilitating communication and collaboration.
- SketchUp: SketchUp is a 3D modeling software that is easy to use and learn. It enables architects and designers to create, edit, and share 3D models of buildings, landscapes, and interiors. SketchUp also offers a large library of 3D models, materials, and plugins that can be accessed online.
- AutoCAD: AutoCAD is a software widely used by architects, contractors, and designers for creating 2D and 3D drafts and designs. It supports various file formats, standards, and tools that can be customized to meet specific project requirements. AutoCAD also integrates with other Autodesk products, such as Revit, Fusion 360, and 3ds Max.
- Chief Architect: Chief Architect is software for residential and light commercial design. It allows users to create 2D and 3D floor plans, elevations, sections, details, realistic renderings, and 3D walkthroughs. Chief Architect also has a comprehensive database of building products, materials, and furnishings that can be dragged and dropped into the design.
- Planner 5D: Planner 5D is an online software suitable for interior design, real estate, and DIY projects. It lets users create 2D and 3D floor plans, furnish and decorate the space, and view the result in 3D. Planner 5D also has a community of users who can share their designs and get feedback.
- Revit: Revit is a software based on the BIM approach. It allows users to create 3D models of buildings that can be updated and modified automatically across all views and documents. Revit also offers features for analysis, simulation, and design documentation.
Does Enscape require any special peripherals for better productivity?
Listed below are some of Enscape’s special peripherals for better productivity:
- A dedicated graphics card: Enscape performs its renders using the graphics card (GPU), which has to have dedicated VRAM and not shared VRAM, as found with Intel Integrated Graphics chips. A dedicated graphics card ensures Enscape can run smoothly and produce high-quality visuals without lagging or crashing. Enscape also supports NVIDIA’s RTX technology, which can calculate lighting and reflections faster and more accurately.
- A VR headset: Enscape offers a virtual reality feature that allows users to immerse themselves in their projects and experience their designs’ full scale and impact. A VR headset is the best headset for architects to use this feature, and Enscape supports various VR devices, such as Oculus Rift, HTC Vive, Windows Mixed Reality, and Valve Index. A VR headset can improve productivity by enabling users to test and present their designs more engagingly and realistically.
- A large monitor: Enscape renders the models in real-time, reflecting any changes made in the design software. A large monitor can help users to see their models in more detail and clarity and to adjust their settings and preferences more easily. It is the best monitor for architects to improve productivity by allowing users to simultaneously work on multiple windows or programs, such as Enscape, CAD software, and web browsers.
- A good mouse: Enscape allows users to navigate and explore their models in different modes, such as walk, fly, or orbit. A good mouse can help users control the camera’s movement and direction more smoothly and precisely and access the features and assets more conveniently. It is the best mouse for architects and can also improve productivity by reducing the strain and fatigue on the user’s hand and wrist.
- A comfortable keyboard: Enscape has various keyboard shortcuts that users can use to access the features and assets faster and easier. A comfortable keyboard can help users to type and execute the commands more accurately and efficiently, and to customize the keyboard shortcuts to suit their preferences. A comfortable keyboard is the best keyboard for architects to improve productivity by enhancing the user’s comfort and ergonomics.
