PolyWorks vs Propeller Comparison

Why choose PolyWorks

• Has a free plan (Propeller does not)
• Higher Customization score (8/10 vs 5/10)
• Higher Integration score (9/10 vs 7/10)

Why choose Propeller

• Higher Ease of Use score (8/10 vs 4/10)
• Higher Security score (7/10 vs 5/10)

PolyWorks

Pros

• Supports a very wide range of hardware, including probing arms, laser trackers, point cloud scanners and CNC CMMs through direct drivers or I++.
• Can convert one inspection sequence to run on CMMs of different brands.
• Macro scripting and sequence editing make repeated, high-volume inspections efficient.
• Produces First Article Inspection reports that comply with AS9102 and PPAP, and includes SPC and Gauge R&R studies.
• A free Reviewer app lets stakeholders examine inspection results without buying a license.

Cons

• No public pricing, and a reseller comparison places it in the most expensive tier.
• A steep learning curve, which a reseller rates as the hardest of the packages it compared.
• Very few public user reviews; G2 lists too few reviews to give buying insight.
• Built for dimensional metrology, not for maintenance, asset management or field work.

Propeller

Pros

• Combines drone, LiDAR, GNSS rover and total station data on a single map, regardless of which hardware captured it.
• AeroPoints give survey-grade ground control without the manual surveying normally needed to set control points.
• Strong stockpile, cut and fill, and progress tooling, with a long track record in earthworks and aggregates.
• Integrates with common construction systems such as Procore, Trimble Connect, Autodesk Build and HCSS.
• The trust center shows a SOC 2 Type 2 attestation.

Cons

• No published software pricing, so buyers have to request a quote.
• Hardware such as AeroPoints and DirtMate adds separate costs on top of the software.
• Reviewers find less depth for vertical construction and interior fitout work.
• Some reviewers say the price may seem high to smaller clients.