Introduction
As the demand for high-quality annotated data grows, tools for data annotation are becoming increasingly important. Among the numerous annotation platforms available, CVAT (Computer Vision Annotation Tool) and Supervisely stand out for their robust features and flexibility.
This in-depth review compares CVAT and Supervisely across multiple dimensions, helping you choose the right tool for your specific needs.
Introduction to CVAT and Supervisely
CVAT (Computer Vision Annotation Tool)
Developed by Intel, CVAT is an open-source annotation tool designed for labeling datasets used in computer vision tasks. Its lightweight nature and extensive customization options make it popular among developers, researchers, and organizations managing large-scale annotation projects.
- Primary Users: Researchers, small teams, organizations preferring open-source solutions.
- Unique Selling Points: Flexibility, open-source nature, and integration with self-hosted systems.
Supervisely
Supervisely is a commercial platform offering a comprehensive suite for data annotation, project management, and machine learning experimentation. Its user-friendly design and advanced AI-assisted features make it an attractive choice for teams and enterprises seeking a powerful, all-in-one solution.
- Primary Users: Businesses, large teams, and organizations looking for enterprise-level solutions.
- Unique Selling Points: Cloud-hosted platform, AI-driven tools, and collaborative features.
Features Comparison
Supported Annotation Types
Both CVAT and Supervisely support a wide range of annotation types, but there are notable differences in their implementations.
| Annotation Type | CVAT | Supervisely |
|---|---|---|
| Bounding Boxes | Supported | Supported |
| Polygons | Supported | Supported |
| Semantic Segmentation | Supported | Supported (Advanced Tools) |
| Keypoints | Supported | Supported |
| 3D Annotation | Limited (via plugins) | Fully Supported |
| Video Annotation | Supported | Supported |
Key Takeaway:
- CVAT excels in 2D image and video annotations.
- Supervisely has better support for 3D data, such as point clouds, making it ideal for LiDAR-based projects.
Automation and AI-Assisted Tools
Automation can significantly reduce annotation time and improve efficiency.
CVAT:
- Tracking and Interpolation: Speeds up video annotations by interpolating object positions across frames.
- Plugins: Custom scripts and third-party integrations for AI-assisted annotations.
- OpenVINO Support: Provides pre-trained models for semi-automatic labeling.
Supervisely:
- Smart Tools: AI-powered tools like Smart Brush and AI DTL (Deep Transfer Learning) for automatic segmentation and labeling.
- Auto-Annotation: Advanced machine learning models for automatic object detection and labeling.
- Pre-Trained Models: Integration with Supervisely’s AI ecosystem for faster automation.
Key Takeaway:
- Supervisely offers more advanced AI-driven tools out-of-the-box.
- CVAT provides flexibility through plugins but requires more technical expertise to implement automation.
Data Format Support
The range of supported data formats influences the tool’s compatibility with various machine learning frameworks.
| Format | CVAT | Supervisely |
|---|---|---|
| COCO | Supported | Supported |
| PASCAL VOC | Supported | Supported |
| TFRecord | Supported | Supported |
| YOLO | Supported | Supported |
| Proprietary Formats | Limited | Extensive |
Key Takeaway:
- Both tools support standard formats like COCO, PASCAL VOC, and YOLO.
- Supervisely offers greater flexibility with proprietary formats and custom export options.
Ease of Use
User Interface (UI)
CVAT:
- A straightforward, minimalist UI.
- Focused on functionality rather than aesthetics.
- Requires manual setup for advanced configurations.
Supervisely:
- Polished, user-friendly interface.
- Intuitive controls with drag-and-drop functionality.
- Advanced dashboards for project tracking and management.
Key Takeaway:
- Supervisely provides a modern and intuitive interface suitable for non-technical users.
- CVAT prioritizes simplicity, making it a better choice for technical teams familiar with command-line interfaces.
Learning Curve
- CVAT: Requires knowledge of deployment and some technical expertise for customization.
- Supervisely: Easier for beginners, with extensive documentation and training materials.
Deployment and Scalability
Cloud vs. On-Premises
- CVAT: Primarily on-premises; requires manual deployment.
- Supervisely: Offers cloud-hosted solutions with optional on-premises installations.
Performance with Large Datasets
- CVAT: Efficient but requires careful server management.
- Supervisely: Optimized for large-scale projects with better cloud infrastructure.
Integration and Interoperability
| Feature | CVAT | Supervisely |
|---|---|---|
| Machine Learning Integration | Customizable via API | Seamless with built-in tools |
| Dataset Export Options | Standard Formats | Standard + Proprietary Formats |
| Custom Plugins | Supported | Limited |
Pricing Models
| Feature | CVAT | Supervisely |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Free, Open-Source | Subscription-Based |
| Enterprise Features | Custom Development Required | Included in Premium Plans |
Use Cases and Case Studies
CVAT Use Case: Autonomous Driving
A research team annotated 1,000 hours of traffic video data using CVAT, leveraging its open-source nature to customize tools for tracking objects across frames.
Supervisely Use Case: Medical Imaging
A healthcare company used Supervisely for segmenting 3D CT scans, utilizing the AI-powered Smart Brush tool to automate initial annotations.
Strengths and Weaknesses
CVAT
Strengths:
- Open-source and cost-effective.
- Highly customizable for technical users.
- Strong video annotation tools.
Weaknesses:
- Lacks built-in AI models.
- Limited collaboration features.
Supervisely
Strengths:
- User-friendly interface.
- Advanced AI-assisted tools.
- Robust collaboration features.
Weaknesses:
- Expensive subscription plans.
- Limited customization options.
Conclusion: Which Tool is Right for You?
- Choose CVAT if you need a cost-effective, customizable tool for small to medium projects with a technically skilled team.
- Choose Supervisely if you require an enterprise-grade platform with advanced features, robust collaboration, and AI assistance.
