Photogrammetry vs LiDAR
An expert comparison to help you choose the right equipment for your project.
| Feature | Drone Photogrammetry | Aerial LiDAR |
|---|---|---|
| Accuracy | 1-2cm GSD (with RTK/GCPs) | 2-5cm vertical |
| Coverage | 200+ acres/hour | 100+ acres/hour |
| Output | Orthomosaic, DSM, 3D mesh | Classified point cloud, DTM/DSM |
| Vegetation | Surface only | Multiple returns penetrate canopy |
| Lighting | Requires good light | Works in any lighting |
| Service Pricing | $1,500 - $5,000 per project | $4,500 - $15,000 per project |
Drone Photogrammetry
Image-Based 3D Mapping
Photogrammetry creates 3D models and orthomosaics from overlapping aerial photos. Excellent for visual documentation, textures, and moderate accuracy needs.
Pros
- Lower equipment cost
- Rich visual output
- High-resolution imagery
- Fast coverage
Cons
- Cannot penetrate vegetation
- Requires good lighting
- Texture-dependent accuracy
Best For
Aerial LiDAR
Active Laser Sensing
LiDAR actively emits laser pulses, measuring precise distances regardless of lighting or surface texture. Penetrates vegetation to capture true ground.
Pros
- Penetrates vegetation
- Works in any lighting
- Consistent accuracy
- Bare-earth terrain
Cons
- Higher equipment cost
- No texture/imagery
- More complex processing
Best For
Our Expert Verdict
Use photogrammetry for visual documentation on clear sites; use LiDAR for terrain under vegetation. Many professional teams use both technologies.
Choose Drone Photogrammetry if...
Choose photogrammetry for construction sites, agriculture, mining, and projects requiring visual imagery.
Choose Aerial LiDAR if...
Choose LiDAR for forested sites, utility corridors, flood studies, and when bare-earth terrain is needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can photogrammetry see through trees?
No. Photogrammetry only captures the surface visible to the camera.
Which is more accurate?
LiDAR provides more consistent accuracy, especially in vegetated areas.
Should I use both?
Yes! Many projects benefit from LiDAR for terrain and photogrammetry for visual documentation.
Professional Services Using This Equipment
TheFuture3D offers professional services utilizing Drone Photogrammetry and Aerial LiDAR 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
Drone Photogrammetry and Aerial LiDAR 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
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.