There are many aspects to RTK GPS, but that just makes it all the more interesting. As this industry continues to grow and expand, it begins to venture into new territories and new technologies. New technologies like drones, for instance.
Drones with RTK GPS capabilities are becoming more popular because they are convenient, easy to use and offer many significant benefits over traditional methods. But choosing the right one for your needs requires a keen eye for practical considerations. If you’re searching for the best RTK drone for professional or commercial use, see below for more information.
How to Choose the Best RTK GPS Drone for You
Flight Time
The flight time of RTK GPS drones is an important factor. If it is too short, you will have to stop and recharge or swap the batteries often. This can lead to delays and may make it harder to survey areas quickly. When comparing options, look for the best RTK drone models that offer extended flight performance.
Camera Specs
Your GPS drone should have a well-equipped camera packed with functionality. Ideally, you should select for 4K 30 FPS cameras, as the clarity of the image is great for large data sets. Consider cameras that capture infrared information, as they can be helpful for farming planning and other site-specific information.

Top Speed
Once you have a system in place and feel comfortable with your RTK drone, you’ll likely want to test the limits of the technology. Contrast top speeds of different drones with the other benefits described here, and make a selection that balances them.
Receiver Distance
A final consideration for your RTK drone is how far it can fly from you. Although flight laws will significantly limit your usable distance, it is not unreasonable to assume that you will have special allowances for flight paths, and having the distance to use this can be beneficial.
5 Best Drones for Mapping and Surveying
DJI Matrice 350 Enterprise RTK
Pros:
- Excellent RTK precision
- Long flight time
- Modular payload options
Cons:
- Higher upfront cost
- Requires training for full functionality
DJI Mavic 3 Enterprise RTK
Pros:
- Compact and portable
- High-quality camera with RTK integration
- User-friendly interface
Cons:
- Less payload flexibility
- Shorter flight time than larger enterprise drones
Autel Robotics Evo II RTK Drone
Pros:
- Strong camera performance
- Reliable RTK accuracy
- Good balance of cost and capability
Cons:
- Smaller sensor than some competitors
- Limited third-party payload support
DJI Matrice 400 Survey Drone
Pros:
- Advanced RTK positioning
- Supports multiple payloads
- Built for heavy-duty surveying
Cons:
- Expensive investment
- Bulkier to transport
JOUAV CW-007
Pros:
- Long endurance for large-area surveys
- Professional-grade RTK performance
- Fixed-wing efficiency
Cons:
- Requires more takeoff/landing space
- Less suited for confined environments
Where to Find the Best RTK Drones
Bench Mark has the best RTK drone options, including CHCNAV’s BB4. For more information about our selection, contact us today.
Bench Mark Equipment & Supplies is your team to trust with all your surveying equipment. We have been providing high-quality surveying equipment to land surveyors, engineers, construction, airborne and resource professionals since 2002. This helps establish ourselves as the go-to team in Calgary, Canada, and the USA. Plus, we provide a wide selection of equipment, including global navigation satellite systems, RTK GPS equipment, GNSS receivers, and more. We strive to provide the highest level of customer care and service for everyone. To speak to one of our team today, call us at 403-286-0333 or email us at [email protected]
