DJI Zenmuse L2 vs L3 vs P1: Mapping Payload Comparison
An expert comparison to help you choose the right equipment for your project.
| Feature | DJI Zenmuse L2 | DJI Zenmuse L3 | DJI Zenmuse P1 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Points | 1.2M pts/sec | 2M pts/sec | - |
| Range | 450m | 950m | - |
| Returns | 5 | Up to 16 | - |
| Accuracy | 4cm | 3cm | - |
| Camera | 1-inch CMOS | 4/3 CMOS mechanical | - |
DJI Zenmuse L2
Value LiDAR
The L2 delivers 1.2M pts/sec with 5 returns and 450m range for cost-effective drone LiDAR.
Pros
- Good value
- 1.2M pts/sec
- 450m range
- 5 returns
- Integrated camera
Cons
- Fewer returns (5 vs 16)
- Shorter range vs L3
- Less vegetation penetration
Best For
DJI Zenmuse L3
Flagship LiDAR
The L3 delivers 2M pts/sec with up to 16 returns and 950m range—DJI's flagship drone LiDAR.
Pros
- 2M pts/sec
- Up to 16 returns
- 950m range
- 3cm accuracy
- Mechanical shutter RGB
Cons
- Requires M400/M400
- Higher investment
Best For
DJI Zenmuse P1
Photogrammetry Camera
The P1 is DJI's 45MP full-frame photogrammetry camera with mechanical shutter.
Pros
- Maximum detail
- Mechanical shutter
- Lens options
- Survey-grade
Cons
- No LiDAR
- Weather dependent
- Post-processing
Best For
Our Expert Verdict
L2 for budget LiDAR (1.2M pts/sec), L3 for flagship LiDAR (2M pts/sec, 16 returns), P1 for photogrammetry.
Choose DJI Zenmuse L2 if...
Choose L2 for cost-effective LiDAR mapping and general surveys.
Choose DJI Zenmuse L3 if...
Choose L3 for maximum vegetation penetration with up to 16 returns and 950m range.
Choose DJI Zenmuse P1 if...
Choose P1 for photogrammetry, visual mapping, and maximum image detail.
Frequently Asked Questions
LiDAR or photogrammetry?
LiDAR (L2/L3) for terrain and vegetation penetration. P1 for visual detail and orthophotos. Professional projects often use both.
Professional Services Using This Equipment
The Future 3D offers professional services utilizing DJI Zenmuse L2 and DJI Zenmuse L3 for superior results.
Drone Photogrammetry
Aerial 3D mapping and orthomosaic creation
LiDAR Drone Surveying & Mapping
Survey-grade topographic mapping with RTK accuracy
Drone Inspections
Safe, efficient roof, facade, and infrastructure inspections
Industries That Benefit From This Technology
DJI Zenmuse L2 and DJI Zenmuse L3 technology drives innovation across these key industries.
Real Estate
Immersive property tours and marketing assets
Construction
As-built documentation, progress monitoring, and BIM modeling
Hospitality
Hotel virtual tours and event space showcases
Warehouses & Logistics
Warehouse documentation and facility planning
Sports & Entertainment
Stadium documentation and venue tours
Utilities
Infrastructure mapping and corridor surveys
Available Nationwide
The Future 3D provides professional 3D scanning services across the United States.
Florida (Headquarters)
Northeast
West Coast
South & Midwest
Need Help Choosing?
Our experts can recommend the right equipment for your specific project requirements.