Emlid RS4 vs Trimble GNSS
An expert comparison to help you choose the right equipment for your project.
| Feature | Emlid RS4 | Trimble R12i |
|---|---|---|
| Accuracy | ±8mm + 1ppm RTK | ±5mm + 0.5ppm RTK |
| Channels | 448 | 672 |
| Constellations | GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, BeiDou | All + L-Band |
| Weight | 0.9 kg | 1.1 kg |
| LoRa Radio | Built-in | - |
| PPK | Yes | - |
Emlid RS4
Budget-Friendly RTK GNSS
The Emlid RS4 offers excellent RTK accuracy at an accessible price point. Perfect for drone mapping GCPs and budget-conscious survey operations.
Pros
- Excellent value for mapping
- Good RTK accuracy
- Easy to use app
- Built-in LoRa radio
- PPK post-processing
Cons
- Less robust build
- Limited survey features
- Smaller ecosystem
- Basic stakeout tools
Best For
Trimble R12i
Industry-Leading GNSS
The Trimble R12i is the industry standard for professional land surveying with ProPoint GNSS engine and superior multipath rejection.
Pros
- Industry-leading accuracy
- Robust construction
- Trimble Access integration
- ProPoint GNSS engine
- Superior multipath rejection
Cons
- Significant price premium
- Complex feature set
- Requires training
Best For
Our Expert Verdict
The Emlid RS4 offers remarkable value for drone mapping and casual survey work. For professional land surveying, boundary work, or any project requiring defensible accuracy, the Trimble R12i remains the industry standard.
Choose Emlid RS4 if...
Choose Emlid RS4 for drone GCPs, mapping projects, and budget-conscious operations.
Choose Trimble R12i if...
Choose Trimble R12i for professional land surveying and when accuracy is legally required.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Emlid accurate enough for surveying?
For mapping and GCPs, yes. For boundary surveys and legal work, Trimble is preferred.
Can I use Emlid for construction stakeout?
Yes, though the workflow is simpler than Trimble Access.
Is the price difference justified?
For professionals doing legal surveys, yes. For mapping, Emlid delivers excellent value.
Professional Services Using This Equipment
The Future 3D offers professional services utilizing Emlid RS4 and Trimble R12i 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
Emlid RS4 and Trimble R12i 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
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.