8th Wall
8th Wall is a powerful web-based augmented reality platform that allows you to create and publish interactive AR experiences that run directly in mobile browsers without requiring an app download.
Zapworks
Zapworks is an all-in-one augmented reality platform that provides you with the creative tools and SDKs needed to build, manage, and publish immersive AR experiences across the web and mobile apps.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | 8th Wall | Zapworks |
|---|---|---|
| Website | 8thwall.com | zappar.com |
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Starting Price | Free | Free |
| FREE Trial | ✓ 14 days free trial | ✓ 14 days free trial |
| Free Plan | ✓ Has free plan | ✓ Has free plan |
| Product Demo | ✓ Request demo here | ✓ Request demo here |
| Deployment | ||
| Integrations | ||
| Target Users | ||
| Target Industries | ||
| Customer Count | 0 | 0 |
| Founded Year | 2016 | 2011 |
| Headquarters | Palo Alto, USA | London, UK |
Overview
8th Wall
8th Wall provides you with a complete professional toolkit for building augmented reality experiences that live entirely on the web. Instead of forcing your customers to download bulky apps, you can reach them instantly through their mobile browser. You can create world-tracked AR, image targets, and even face effects using standard web technologies like JavaScript and WebGL.
The platform includes a cloud-based integrated development environment (IDE) so you can code, test, and publish your projects from a single interface. Whether you are building a virtual try-on for retail or an immersive scavenger hunt for a marketing campaign, it handles the complex computer vision math so you can focus on the creative experience. It is designed for agencies and developers who need to deploy high-quality AR at scale across iOS and Android devices.
Zapworks
Zapworks gives you everything you need to create and deploy augmented reality experiences that engage your audience. Whether you are building simple image-tracked content or complex 3D world-tracking simulations, the platform provides a suite of tools tailored to your technical skill level. You can choose between a no-code designer, a low-code studio, or professional-grade SDKs for custom web development.
The platform solves the complexity of AR by handling the heavy lifting of computer vision and hosting. You can track engagement through built-in analytics and update your content in real-time without needing to republish apps. It is widely used by marketing agencies, educators, and enterprise brands to turn static physical objects into interactive digital touchpoints that drive measurable results.
Overview
8th Wall Features
- World Tracking Place digital objects in physical spaces with high precision using SLAM technology that tracks surfaces and movement in real-time.
- Image Targets Turn flat images like posters, packaging, or business cards into interactive digital triggers that launch 3D animations and videos.
- Face Effects Create custom filters and virtual try-on experiences for glasses or jewelry that map perfectly to your user's facial features.
- Cloud Editor Write and debug your code in a specialized web-based IDE that includes built-in version control and instant deployment.
- Sky Effects Replace the real-world sky with custom digital environments to create immersive, large-scale outdoor augmented reality scenes.
- Light Estimation Match your digital objects to the real-world lighting conditions of your user's environment for a more realistic visual experience.
Zapworks Features
- Zapworks Designer. Create interactive AR content quickly using a drag-and-drop interface that requires absolutely no coding knowledge.
- Zapworks Studio. Build highly customized and complex 3D experiences using a powerful scripting environment designed for creative developers.
- Universal AR SDKs. Integrate AR capabilities into your existing web apps using popular frameworks like Three.js, A-Frame, and Unity.
- World Tracking. Place digital objects onto floors and surfaces in the real world with stable, high-performance SLAM technology.
- Image Training. Turn any flat surface, product packaging, or print media into a digital trigger for your AR content.
- Custom Analytics. Track how your audience interacts with your experiences with detailed data on views, clicks, and dwell time.
Pricing Comparison
8th Wall Pricing
- Non-commercial use only
- Access to Cloud Editor
- Unlimited project drafts
- Community support access
- Basic AR engine features
- Everything in Free, plus:
- Commercial publishing rights
- Direct email support
- Custom domain hosting
- Advanced analytics dashboard
- Increased monthly view limits
Zapworks Pricing
- Non-commercial use only
- Access to Designer & Studio
- Zapbox support
- Community support
- Standard hosting
- Everything in Personal, plus:
- Commercial usage rights
- Unlimited project creation
- Custom branding options
- Advanced analytics dashboard
- Priority email support
Pros & Cons
8th Wall
Pros
- Eliminates the friction of app store downloads
- Works consistently across both iOS and Android
- Excellent documentation and active developer community
- Powerful computer vision for web-based tracking
Cons
- Monthly subscription costs can be high
- Requires strong JavaScript and coding knowledge
- Performance depends heavily on mobile browser speed
Zapworks
Pros
- Flexible toolset accommodates both beginners and advanced coders
- Excellent web-based AR performance without requiring app downloads
- Comprehensive documentation and active community forum support
- Fast deployment cycle from design to live publishing
Cons
- Steep learning curve for the advanced Studio tool
- Pricing can scale quickly for high-traffic campaigns
- Limited asset library compared to some competitors