Zillow 3D Tour vs Matterport: What’s Better?

If you’re a real estate professional—or you work with luxury listings in markets like Coto de Caza, CA—you’ve probably heard the terms Zillow 3D Tour and Matterport.

Both are powerful virtual tour tools. But which one is better, when, and why?

Let’s break it down in simple, practical terms so you can choose the right one for your listings.

Quick Overview: Zillow 3D Tour vs Matterport

What Is a Zillow 3D Tour?

A Zillow 3D Tour is a free tool from Zillow that allows agents to create interactive virtual tours using compatible 360° cameras and smartphones.

It’s simple, easy, and integrated directly into Zillow listings — which makes it great for many residential properties.

Pros of Zillow 3D

• Free (no additional cost)
• Fast setup
• Integrated directly on Zillow listings
• Easy for agents to learn and use

Cons of Zillow 3D

• Not a full 3D model (no “dollhouse” view)
• No measurement tool
• Limited to Zillow platform
• Less immersive than Matterport

What Is Matterport 3D?

Matterport is a professional-grade 3D scanning platform that creates immersive, interactive digital twins of a space. Buyers can walk through every room and even see a dollhouse-style 3D model of the whole property.

Pros of Matterport

• Fully immersive 3D walkthrough
• Dollhouse & floor plan views
• Built-in measurement tools
• Works on MLS, websites, social media
• Premium presentation

Cons of Matterport

• Costs more than Zillow 3D
• Requires professional capture equipment
• Longer processing time

Head-to-Head Comparison

1. Immersiveness & User Experience

Matterport wins hands down here. Buyers can explore the property in depth, use measurements, and see the layout in 3D.

Zillow 3D is interactive — but more linear and basic.

2. Ease of Creation

Zillow 3D is easier for agents to create on their own—especially if they already shoot on Zillow.

Matterport typically requires professional equipment or a certified operator.

3. Cost

Zillow 3D is free — which is hard to beat.

Matterport involves:

• Scanning fees
• Hosting fees (in some packages)
• Professional capture cost

4. Marketing Value

For everyday listings, Zillow 3D provides enough engagement.

But for luxury listings, Matterport adds a premium, professional experience that attracts serious buyers, increases engagement, and sets listings apart.

5. Distribution & Reach

Zillow 3D tours shine on Zillow… but they don’t extend as well beyond the Zillow ecosystem.

Matterport tours can be embedded anywhere:

• MLS platforms
• Custom property websites
• Social media ads
• Email flyers

When to Use Zillow 3D Tours

Zillow 3D is ideal if:

• You’re marketing everyday or entry-level homes
• You need a quick, free virtual tour
• You want direct Zillow exposure
• The budget is limited

It gets the job done, and in many markets, it’s more than enough.

When to Use Matterport Tours

Matterport is ideal if:

• You’re selling luxury homes
• The property has complex layouts
• Buyers are remote or international
• You want premium marketing materials
• You want immersive virtual tours that convert

For properties with high value and discerning buyers (like estates in Coto de Caza or Orange County), Matterport adds real perceived value.

Are They Mutually Exclusive?

Not necessarily.

Many agents use:

• Zillow 3D for quick initial exposure
• Matterport for deep engagement and premium marketing

This gives broad listing visibility and high-value buyer immersion.

Final Verdict