Smart 3D Capture vs DJI Manifold 3 surveys with DJI M4E

• Comparison between using Smart 3D Capture and Smart 3D Explore-Manifold 3 on the DJI Matrice 4E;

• See dataset examples showing the difference between the data collected with Smart 3D Capture and Smart 3D Explore-Manifold 3;

• Learn about the differences in workflows between the two surveying techniques;

• Ben Ford, from Wight Drone, says the addition of Manifold 3 helps to collect more reliable, repeatable datasets;

• heliguy™ has an in-house survey department and can help you get started with the DJI Matrice 4E, Smart 3D Capture, and DJI Manifold 3.

The DJI Matrice 4E has raised the bar when it comes to automated drone surveying.

Its built-in Smart 3D Capture function generates precise, automatic mapping routes based on a rough initial model of the survey area.

But the introduction of the DJI Manifold 3 unlocks a new level of hands-free mapping.

By enabling autonomous exploration, instant environmental perception, real-time onboard modelling, and dynamic flight planning, Manifold 3 significantly enhances what the Matrice 4E can achieve — particularly in complex or constrained environments.

In this blog, we outline the differences between Smart 3D Capture and Smart 3D Explore with Manifold 3, and demonstrate how Manifold 3 gives surveyors the edge.

We’ll also break down a real-world comparison conducted by heliguy™ client Ben Ford of Wight Drone, which demonstrates the performance difference in a practical test.

Key takeaways

• Automated mapping: Both Smart 3D Capture and Smart 3D Capture and Explore with DJI Manifold 3 support automated surveying workflows on the DJI Matrice 4E;

• Smart 3D Capture: Fly initial mapping mission > land/hover while RC processes a rough model > generate precise route using the model > execute > survey quality report.

• Smart 3D Explore with Manifold 3: Define boundaries > drone completes autonomous spatial scan (model created during flight for precise flight route) > flight route execution > survey quality report.

• Streamlined surveys: Manifold 3 streamlines workflows and enables smarter in-field decision making, with dynamic route adjustments that follow the object’s true geometry.

• Real-world tests: Manifold 3 produced more complete models, due to its ability to capture parts of you site that otherwise would not be seen using normal smart 3d capture, demonstrating how it excels in complex or constrained environments.

• In-house survey support: heliguy™ has an in-house survey department and can help you get started with DJI Matrice 4E, Smart 3D Capture, and Manifold 3.

Expert insight

“After spending time with the Manifold 3, it’s clear that it produces more complete, more reliable datasets, significantly reduces the risk of mission interruption, excels in complex or constrained environments, and automates internal capture.”

— Ben Ford, Wight Drone

Smart 3D Capture vs Smart 3D Explore with Manifold 3: At a glance

The table below provides an at-a-glance comparison between Smart 3D Capture and Smart 3D Explore with the DJI Manifold 3.

What is DJI Manifold 3?

DJI Manifold 3 is a high-performance onboard computer, weighing just 120g, and offering an impressive 100 TOPS of computing power.

When mounted onto the Matrice 400 and Matrice 4 Series drone platforms, it provides enhanced computing power for flight, gimbal, and camera control — improving efficiency across a wide range of operations.

When Manifold 3 is integrated with the DJI Matrice 4E, it unlocks Smart 3D Explore.

What is Smart 3D Capture

Smart 3D Capture supports the capture of an initial dataset, then creation of a rough model on the remote controller.

Based on this, it generates precise mapping routes close to a structure’s surface (1 metre) and the drone then conducts the detailed mission, autonomously.

Benefit: Easy to complete detailed modelling and measurements of irregular buildings.

What is Smart 3D Capture and Explore with Manifold 3?

Integrating the DJI Manifold 3 accessory with the DJI Matrice 4E unlocks real-time spatial mapping and automatic flight route planning in unknown environments.

During operation, Manifold 3 conducts an automatic 360° spatial scan of the designated survey area and generates a more complete rough model during flight and transmits it to the remote controller, allowing users to quickly create precise mapping routes that follow the geometry of the object.

Benefit: Model complex structures with accuracy and efficiency - with just one field operation.

Smart 3D Capture vs Smart 3D Explore + Manifold 3 workflow comparison

The graphic below shows how DJI Manifold 3 helps streamline the mapping workflow.

Smart 3D Capture workflow

Step 1 - Initial Flight

Fly Matrice 4E to quickly map the site, then use Pilot 2 to choose the mission photo file to create a rough point cloud model. It is recommended to fly an oblique flight to capture different angles of the target object/building.

Step 2 Flight Route Planning

After defining the survey area, the 3D flight plan will be automatically generated. Set parameters, such as flight speed and shooting distance; and add obstacles or elements such as water surfaces, if automatic reconstruction fails.

Step 3 - Flight Route Execution

Upload the planned route to M4E for execution.

Smart 3D Explore with Manifold 3 workflow

Rapidly generate a rough point cloud model for structures with no prior mapping data.

Step 1 - Real-time route analysis

• View the streamed rough 3D model on the RC.

• The system proposes a highly-accurate close-range route that follows the detected complex surfaces.

• The operator can quickly edit, refine, or confirm the proposed route based on the real-time model.

Step 2 - High–precision capture

• The drone executes the refined route derived from Manifold 3’s rough model via manual processes (download, define survey area, parameter configuration), capturing precise high-res images.

• This mode ensures optimal photo alignment and overlap rates, even on uniquely-shaped structures.

Step 3 - Mission complete (overview and detail)

• The entire process is completed in one continuous field operation, significantly accelerating the project timeline.

• The final output is a survey quality report ready for photogrammetry software.

DJI Smart 3D Capture vs Manifold 3: Real-world testing

Real-world testing, comparing Smart 3D Capture and Smart 3D Capture + Explore with Manifold 3, was conducted by Ben Ford of Wight Drone.

Ben has been a regular user of Smart 3D Capture, describing it as impressive, but admits it can struggle to detect smaller or thinner features, which can result in mission halts or missing data.

Following the test with Manifold 3, he says he ‘fully intends to invest in one in the not-too-distant future’.

Key findings:

Manifold 3...

• Produces more complete, more reliable datasets.

• Significantly reduces the risk of mission interruption.

• Excels in complex or constrained environments.

• Enables automated internal data capture - a major advantage.

Equipment & settings

• Survey site: Barn (practical real-world test case).

• Drone: DJI Matrice 4E

• GNSS: Emlid Reach RS2

• Software: DJI Terra

• Capture methods: DJI Smart 3D Capture and Manifold 3.

• Overlap: 80/80

• GSD: ~0.05

• GCPs: None

The workflow

Ben described the Manifold 3’s workflow as ‘straightforward’:

1. Place points around the asset

2. Let the system plan and execute the flight

3. Vertices are laid over the structure

4. Drone returns home

5. Remove the Manifold and process the point cloud

He said the Smart 3D Capture’s flight was shorter, but the altitude was higher.

Smart 3D Capture resulted in 2,184 images, while the Manifold mission captured 3,587.

He said: “While this site was relatively clear of foliage or obstructions, it highlighted how easily Smart Capture could struggle in more complex environments where obstacles might interrupt the mission.”

The data

Ben said the Smart 3D Capture dataset showed:

• Several holes, particularly inside the barn.

• Warping around straw bales and roof structures.

• Good exterior quality overall, but noticeable edge deformation in some areas.

In contrast, Ben described the Manifold 3 dataset as having ‘greater density’, with the resulting model showing:

• Far fewer holes

• Much cleaner internal geometry

• Strong exterior detail

• Minimal warping

Automated internal scans

One of the most significant advantages of DJI Manifold 3 is its ability to unlock automated internal scans.

Ben said: “During the initial planning phase, Smart Capture still requires collecting oblique data for the point cloud, which often means flying 20m+ beyond the asset boundary.

“In open environments this isn’t a major issue, but in more populated or constrained areas it can quickly become problematic.”

The Manifold 3’s exploration workflow eliminates the need to overfly the asset.

Ben said: “Once the external capture was complete, I reattached the Manifold and performed an internal capture — something Smart Capture simply cannot do. While this part was slightly nerve-wracking, the system performed faultlessly.”

Ben said the only way to improve internal results further would be a fully manual capture.

heliguy™ support for survey workflows

Whether you’re using Smart 3D Capture as a standalone workflow, or upgrading to Smart 3D Explore with Manifold 3, heliguy™ can support you from day one.

Our in-house survey specialists can help with:

• Product supply and consultancy.

• DJI Matrice 4E setup and optimisation.

• Manifold 3 integration and workflow guidance.

• RTK and GNSS configuration.

• DJI Terra processing advice.

• Training and technical support for real-world surveying environments.

If you’re unsure whether Smart 3D Capture is sufficient for your work — or whether Manifold 3 is the right next step — we can help you make the right call.

Summary: Why Manifold 3 changes the game for automated surveying

It’s worth saying that this blog isn’t a dig at Smart 3D Capture.

Smart 3D Capture, which comes natively with the DJI Matrice 4E, is still an incredibly powerful and advantageous feature - and our survey team has had great results with it.

But the Manifold 3 external module takes things further.

Its real-time modelling capabilities deliver a strategic advantage for surveyors, resulting in upgraded workflows, enhanced data capture, and greater flexibility in complex environments.

Ready to get started with DJI Manifold 3? Contact heliguy™ today.