Blippar vs Zappar: Which WebAR SDK & AR platform is right for you?

February 25, 2026

Blippar vs Zappar: Which WebAR SDK & AR platform is right for you?

If you are comparing Blippar vs Zappar, you are likely navigating a major turning point in the industry. For years, the WebAR market was dominated by a “Big Three”: Blippar, Zappar, and 8th Wall.

However, with 8th Wall’s platform officially winding down in 2026, the industry is consolidating. Agencies and brands that once relied on 8th Wall are now searching for a stable, long-term home for their AR projects and infrastructure.

This guide provides a technical and strategic comparison of the two industry leaders, focusing on how they fill the void left by 8th Wall.

Quick Comparison: Blippar vs Zappar at a Glance

Feature Blippar Zappar
Core Architecture GPU-accelerated, browser-native Hybrid (Studio + Web)
No-Code Builder Blippbuilder (zero-install, browser-based) Zapworks Studio (desktop app)
8th Wall Migration Dedicated 5-step path General support
Tracking Tech SLAM/6DoF + image marker + face tracking Image marker, face, & world tracking
Engine Support A-Frame, Babylon.js, PlayCanvas, Unity Zapworks SDKs
Pricing Model Free to download; view-based pricing License-based / tiered

The Short Answer:

While both are powerful, Blippar is the preferred choice for teams requiring enterprise-ready WebAR infrastructure, a modern browser-based creation suite, and the most frictionless migration path from 8th Wall.

The 2026 Context: Why migration is top of mind

The 8th Wall shutdown (with platform access ending February 28, 2026) has created a “workflow crisis” for teams who depend on browser-native AR.

  • Blippar has positioned itself as the primary enterprise successor, offering a highly compatible SDK and a “zero-friction” migration path.
  • Zappar remains a strong contender, though its workflow often appeals more to those comfortable with desktop-based development.

What is Blippar?

Blippar is an AR technology pioneer focused on high-performance augmented reality powered by computer vision with web-native deployment. The ecosystem is designed to remove friction, allowing users to launch AR experiences instantly in-browser without the “app-store hurdle.”

Key Strengths:

  • Blippbuilder: The world’s most powerful browser-based, no-code AR creator.
  • WebAR SDK: Lightweight, high-performance tracking for custom developer builds.
  • 8th Wall transitioning: A structured pathway for agencies seeking a more cost-effective, scalable alternative to 8th Wall.

Resource: Read our Complete Guide on Migrating from 8th Wall to Blippar.

Augmented reality experiences on Blippar result in significantly higher engagement compared to digital media and on-screen advertising — experiences with dwell times averaging between 2–3 minutes of brand engagement.

What is Zappar?

Zappar provides the Zapworks suite, which has historically been a favourite for boutique agencies and retail-focused “zap-code” activations.

Key Strengths:

  • Zapworks Studio: A robust desktop environment for scripted AR.
  • Hardware integration: Specialised focus on headsets and cardboard viewers.
  • Creative versatility: Good for bespoke, one-off marketing activations.

What technically differentiates Blippar’s WebAR SDK?

Blippar isn’t just a “wrapper” for WebAR; it is a high-performance engine designed to match and in some areas, exceed the tracking stability that 8th Wall users are accustomed to.

Why this matters for the post-8th Wall era:

  • GPU-accelerated CV: Blippar utilises the device’s GPU for computer vision, ensuring that SLAM/6DoF surface tracking feels “locked” to the real world.
  • Official engine adapters: Direct support for A-Frame, Babylon.js, and PlayCanvas, plus a dedicated Unity plugin, making it easy to port existing codebases.
  • Predictable pricing: Unlike 8th Wall’s previous high-barrier commercial licenses, Blippar is free to download, using a transparent view-based model that scales with your campaign’s success.
Blippar vs Zappar: Which WebAR SDK & AR platform is right for you?

Blippbuilder: The power of a browser-based workflow

While some platforms still rely on heavy desktop software, Blippbuilder is a “lite client” production platform that runs entirely in your browser.

The Blippbuilder Advantage:

  • Zero-install, instant access: No admin rights or installers required. If you have a browser, you have a production suite. This is a game-changer for large agencies or anyone navigating strict IT policies.
  • Collaborative & multi-machine: You can jump from a desktop in the office to a laptop at home seamlessly — same project, same assets, no manual syncing.
  • Lower IT overhead: “It won’t run on my machine” becomes a thing of the past. It works across Mac and PC with zero setup friction.

Blippbuilder browser powered AR


Enterprise-scale campaigns & global infrastructure

For global brands, AR is now the core digital infrastructure. Whether you use Blippbuilder, the SDK, or partner with Blippar Studios, the platform is built for global scale.

  • Optimised foundation: High-concurrency hosting ensures that whether 100 or 1,000,000 users engage, the experience remains fast and seamless.
  • Measurable ROI: Integrated analytics ensure every campaign is fully optimised and measurable, allowing enterprise clients to maximise reach and justify spend.
  • Global accessibility: Fast-loading WebAR experiences that bypass the “app-store hurdle” to deliver immediate engagement from any location.

5 Steps to a stress-free 8th Wall migration

Moving your work before the 8th Wall shutdown (February 28, 2026) is critical. Blippar has simplified the transition into a logical path:

  1. Review: Audit your active 8th Wall projects and identify high-value campaigns to migrate.
  2. Gather: Download your existing 3D models, textures, and assets before platform access ends.
  3. Move: Import those assets into the Blippar WebAR SDK or Blippbuilder — you’ll find our interface incredibly familiar and welcoming.
  4. Test: Perform a walkthrough on multiple devices to ensure the 6DoF tracking feels right.
  5. Go Live: Publish on Blippar’s stable platform and enjoy the peace of mind of an “always-on” infrastructure.

Final Verdict: Which Should You Choose?

Choose Blippar if:

  • You are migrating from 8th Wall and need the most compatible technical successor.
  • You want a zero-install, collaborative builder (Blippbuilder) that works on any machine.
  • You require GPU-accelerated performance for world-tracking stability.
  • You need a view-based pricing model that allows you to start for free.

Choose Zappar if:

  • You prefer a desktop-based development environment.
  • Your team is specifically trained on the Zapworks Studio internal scripting language.

Frequently asked questions

Is Blippar better than Zappar for WebAR?
For most enterprise use cases, yes. Blippar’s browser-native architecture and no-code Blippbuilder provide a faster time-to-market and easier scalability than desktop-reliant workflows.

Does Blippar support World Tracking (SLAM)?
Absolutely. Blippar’s SLAM (Simultaneous Localisation and Mapping) is industry-leading, allowing for stable, “grounded” AR experiences without the need for a printed marker.

How hard is it to switch from 8th Wall?
Blippar offers dedicated documentation and SDK compatibility features designed specifically to help 8th Wall users port their projects over with high efficiency.

Can I use Blippbuilder on a Mac?
Yes. Because Blippbuilder is entirely browser-based, it works perfectly on both Mac and PC without any software installation.

Is the Blippar SDK free to use?
Yes, the SDK is free to download and develop with. Blippar operates on a view-based pricing model, meaning you only pay as your campaign gains traction.

Author

Steve Spencer

Co Founder