3D Renders or a 3D Walkthrough Video: Which Do You Need?

Quick answer: Choose 3D renders when you need still images for a listing, brochure, council submission or client sign-off, or to compare options such as facade styles and colours. Choose a 3D walkthrough or fly-around video when you need to show how a home flows from room to room, sell off the plan, or stand out on YouTube and social media. Many builders and developers use both: renders for the listing and a short video to show the whole home.

What Each One Is

A 3D render is a photorealistic still image of one view, such as the front facade or the kitchen. A walkthrough video moves a camera through or around the home, like a short film; interior walkthroughs are usually about 60 seconds of fully furnished rooms.

When 3D Renders Are the Better Choice

• Listings and brochures, where buyers scroll through images.
• Council and development submissions that need clear, accurate views.
• Comparing options: the same home in different facade styles or colour schemes.
• Tight deadlines: renders usually take 3 to 5 business days, and next-day is available.

When a Walkthrough Video Is the Better Choice

• Selling off the plan, when buyers need to understand a home that doesn't exist yet.
• Display homes and premium homes, where the flow between rooms is the selling point.
• YouTube, social media and your website, where video holds attention for longer.
• Developments, where an aerial fly-over shows the streets, landscaping and surroundings.

Walkthrough videos are usually delivered in about 4 days.

Using Both

We build one 3D model from your plans and use it for renders, floor plans and videos, so adding a video later doesn't mean starting again.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is a 3D walkthrough video?

Interior walkthroughs are usually about 60 seconds of fully furnished rooms. Exterior fly-arounds and development fly-overs are planned around what you need to show.

How long do 3D renders take?

Usually 3 to 5 business days, with next-day available.

Can you make renders and a video from the same plans?

Yes. We build one 3D model from your plans and use it for renders, floor plans and videos.

Is a 360 degree tour the same as a walkthrough video?

No. A 360 degree tour lets viewers spin around each room themselves, while a walkthrough is a guided video that moves through the home.

How do I get a quote?

Send your plans and we'll quote within 1 hour during business hours. No deposit is required for ABN-registered companies.

Not sure which you need? Send your plans and we'll suggest the best mix and quote within the hour: Exterior 3D Renders, Interior 3D Renders and 3D Walkthrough Videos.

Sources and further reading

• Land and Environment Court of NSW: policy on photomontages and visualisation tools. When visuals are evidence in an appeal, it covers still images and video alike.
• NSW Planning: your guide to the DA process, for council and development submissions.