Software Comparison

DJI Terra vs DroneDeploy: Drone Mapping Software Comparison 2026

An expert comparison to help you choose the right equipment for your project.

Feature	DJI Terra	DroneDeploy
Pricing	$999-2,599/year	$329-499/month
Processing	Local (desktop)	Cloud-based
Drone Support	DJI only	Multi-vendor (DJI, Skydio, etc.)
LiDAR Processing	Yes (L2, L3)	Limited
Real-Time Mapping	Yes	No (cloud-based)
Output Formats	GeoTIFF, LAS, OBJ, KML	GeoTIFF, OBJ, LAS, PDF
RTK Support	Native integration	Via GCPs
Collaboration	Limited	Extensive
Service Pricing	$999-2,599/year	$329-499/month

Option A DJI

DJI Terra

Native DJI Drone Mapping Software

DJI Terra is DJI's native photogrammetry and mapping software optimized for DJI drones. Offers seamless integration with Matrice, Mavic Enterprise, and Zenmuse payloads including L-series LiDAR processing.

Pros

Optimized for DJI ecosystem
L-series LiDAR processing included
Real-time mapping during flight
Direct RTK integration
One-time annual fee (no per-map costs)
Faster DJI-specific processing

Cons

DJI drones only
Windows only (no Mac)
Limited collaboration features
Local processing requires hardware
Fewer integrations than cloud platforms

Best For

DJI-exclusive fleetsL-series LiDAR usersReal-time mapping needsOrganizations avoiding cloud

Option B DroneDeploy

DroneDeploy

Cloud-Based Drone Mapping & Analytics Platform

DroneDeploy is the leading cloud-based drone mapping platform with AI-powered analytics, extensive integrations, and collaboration features. Supports multiple drone brands and offers enterprise-grade workflows.

Pros

No local hardware requirements
Extensive construction integrations (Procore, BIM 360)
AI-powered analytics and reports
Multi-drone vendor support
Team collaboration features
Mobile flight app included

Cons

Higher ongoing subscription cost
Requires internet for processing
Limited LiDAR processing
Storage limits on lower tiers
No real-time mapping

Best For

Multi-vendor drone fleetsConstruction teamsEnterprise collaborationAI analytics needs

Our Expert Verdict

Depends on Your Needs

DJI Terra excels for DJI-exclusive operations with L-series LiDAR and real-time mapping needs. DroneDeploy wins for cloud collaboration, AI analytics, and multi-vendor fleet support. Your choice depends on hardware ecosystem and workflow requirements.

Choose DJI Terra if...

Choose DJI Terra when using exclusively DJI hardware, processing L-series LiDAR data, or requiring real-time mapping without cloud dependency.

Choose DroneDeploy if...

Choose DroneDeploy for cloud-based collaboration, AI-powered construction analytics, multi-vendor drone support, or integration with Procore/BIM 360.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is more cost-effective?

DJI Terra has lower annual cost ($999-2,599/year vs $3,948-5,988/year for DroneDeploy). However, DroneDeploy eliminates hardware requirements.

Can DJI Terra process non-DJI drone data?

No, DJI Terra only supports DJI drones. DroneDeploy supports multiple vendors including DJI, Skydio, and others.

Which is better for LiDAR?

DJI Terra is significantly better for L-series LiDAR (L2, L3) with native processing. DroneDeploy has limited LiDAR capabilities.

Which has better construction integrations?

DroneDeploy offers extensive integrations with Procore, Autodesk BIM 360, PlanGrid, and 40+ construction platforms. DJI Terra has limited integrations.