Drone LiDAR vs Photogrammetry vs Satellite: Aerial Mapping Comparison
An expert comparison to help you choose the right equipment for your project.
| Feature | Drone LiDAR | Drone Photogrammetry | Satellite Imagery |
|---|---|---|---|
| Type | Active sensing | Passive imaging | Orbital |
| Accuracy | ±2-5cm | ±2-5cm RTK | - |
| Penetration | Yes | - | - |
| Weather | Some clouds OK | Clear required | Cloud dependent |
| Cost | Higher | Lower | Variable |
Drone LiDAR
Active 3D Sensing
Drone LiDAR uses laser scanning to capture precise 3D terrain data.
Pros
- Vegetation penetration
- True ground detection
- Works in shade
- Very accurate
Cons
- Higher cost
- Heavier payloads
- Less visual detail
Best For
Drone Photogrammetry
Visual Reconstruction
Drone photogrammetry creates 3D models from overlapping photographs.
Pros
- Color texture
- Lower cost
- Visual detail
- Easier processing
Cons
- No penetration
- Weather dependent
- Processing time
Best For
Satellite Imagery
Global Coverage
Satellite imagery provides wide-area coverage for large-scale projects.
Pros
- Huge coverage
- No site access
- Historical data
- Global reach
Cons
- Lower resolution
- Cloud dependent
- No penetration
Best For
Our Expert Verdict
Drone LiDAR for terrain, photogrammetry for visual, satellite for large areas.
Choose Drone LiDAR if...
Choose drone LiDAR for vegetation penetration and terrain modeling.
Choose Drone Photogrammetry if...
Choose photogrammetry for visual detail and color orthophotos.
Choose Satellite Imagery if...
Choose satellite for large-area coverage and inaccessible sites.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I combine these methods?
Yes! LiDAR + photogrammetry is common. Satellite for planning, drones for detail.
Professional Services Using This Equipment
TheFuture3D offers professional services utilizing Drone LiDAR and Drone Photogrammetry for superior results.
3D Virtual Tours
Immersive Matterport virtual tours for properties and spaces
3D Laser Scanning
Millimeter-accurate point cloud capture with Trimble and NavVis
Scan-to-BIM
Transform scan data into intelligent Revit models
Digital Twins
Living 3D models with real-time IoT integration
As-Built Documentation
2D CAD Floor Plans and PDF Documentation from 3D scanning
Google Street View
Google Trusted Photographer services for business interiors
Industries That Benefit From This Technology
Drone LiDAR and Drone Photogrammetry technology drives innovation across these key industries.
Schools & Education
Virtual campus tours, facility documentation, and safety planning
Real Estate
Immersive property tours and marketing assets
Retail
Store planning and virtual store tours
Hospitality
Hotel virtual tours and event space showcases
Insurance
Property documentation and claims support
Property Management
Portfolio documentation and move-in/out inspections
Available Nationwide
TheFuture3D 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.