Multiple Depth Sensors vs Web Cameras vs Action Cameras Comparison

There is no straightforward answer to the questions which is better — Multiple Depth Sensors or Multiple Sony PS Eye Cameras configuration. The accuracy of tracking is almost the same. Pros and cons summary:

Cameras	Pros	Cons
Dual Depth Sensors	Easier to set-up and calibrate Require less space due to wider angle of view, minimum required space is 7 x 4 feet ( = 2.2 x 1.2 meters) No requirements to clothes color	Capture area is limited with 7 x 7 feet ( = 2 x 2 meters) Framerate is only 30 fps (more tracking errors on fast motions) More problems with occlusion (especially for complex motions including rotations) Cannot be used outdoors
Sony PS Eye (3 to 8 cameras)	More accurate tracking for head and feet MUCH bigger capture area, up to 20 by 20 feet ( = 7 by 7 meters) 60 fps framerate allow to track very fast motions Less problems with occlusion (especially for 6 — 8 cameras) Allows outdoor capture (not in sunny weather though)	Set-up and calibration takes more time More issues with USB controllers (you need 3 USB controllers for 6 cameras, and 4 USB controllers for 8 cameras) You need more space, minimum required space is 13 x 13 feet ( = 4 x 4 meters) Higher requirements for HDD speed

If you choose to go with depth sensors, see also the comparison of different models.

General Recommendations

• Dual Depth Sensor configuration is very practical, it is easier to use and able to track many kinds of motions. We can recommend it if:
  • Your room is not very big (less than 20 x 20 feet = 6 x 6 meters)
  • You do not need to track fast complex motions like energetic dancing, acrobatics, etc.
  • You do not need to track 2 actors

• Sony PS Eye cameras is the most powerful option, but you have to invest more time in learning. We can recommend it if:
  • 7 x 7 feet ( = 2 x 2 meters) capture area is not enough for your motions, and your room is bigger than 20 x 20 feet ( = 6 x 6 meters)
  • You plan to track fast complex motions like energetic dancing, acrobatics, etc.
  • You plan to track 2 actors