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Drone Comparison

ROCK R3 vs R3 Pro vs Ultra

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

Feature ROCK Ultra ROCK R3 / R3 Pro V2
Range 1000m 300m (R3) / 450m (Pro)
Accuracy ±2cm vertical ±3cm vertical
Points/sec 300,000 240,000
Returns 3 3
IMU Applanix Standard/Enhanced
Processing ROCK Cloud ROCK Cloud
Service Pricing ~$30,000+ ~$15,000 - $20,000
Option A ROCK Robotic

ROCK Ultra

Flagship Aerial LiDAR

The ROCK Ultra is the flagship aerial LiDAR with 1000m range, highest accuracy, and enterprise-grade performance for large-area mapping.

Pros

  • Extended 1000m range
  • Highest accuracy in lineup
  • Platform agnostic
  • ROCK Cloud processing
  • Enterprise support

Cons

  • Highest investment
  • Heavier payload
  • More complex setup

Best For

Large-area mappingTransmission linesForestryEnterprise survey operations
Option B ROCK Robotic

ROCK R3 / R3 Pro V2

Professional Aerial LiDAR Options

The R3 V2 and R3 Pro V2 offer excellent performance at accessible price points for standard survey work and smaller mapping projects.

Pros

  • Proven reliability
  • ROCK Cloud integration
  • Multiple price points
  • Good community support
  • Platform flexibility

Cons

  • Shorter range than Ultra
  • Fewer returns
  • Less suitable for large areas

Best For

Standard survey workConstructionSmaller mapping projectsEntry to professional LiDAR

Our Expert Verdict

Tie - Choose Based on Your Needs

The ROCK Ultra is the flagship choice for maximum range and accuracy. The R3 Pro V2 offers excellent value for standard survey work. The R3 V2 provides an accessible entry point to professional LiDAR.

Choose ROCK Ultra if...

Choose ROCK Ultra for large-area mapping, utility corridors, and when maximum range is essential.

Choose ROCK R3 / R3 Pro V2 if...

Choose R3/R3 Pro for standard survey work, construction, and budget-conscious LiDAR operations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Ultra worth the extra cost?

For large-area mapping and long corridors, yes. For smaller sites, R3 Pro delivers excellent results.

Which works with DJI drones?

All ROCK sensors are platform agnostic and work with DJI Matrice series.

How does ROCK Cloud compare to DJI Terra?

ROCK Cloud offers more flexibility; DJI Terra is simpler if using only DJI equipment.

Equipment Used

Professional Equipment In This Comparison

TheFuture3D operates all equipment featured in this comparison. We're certified professionals delivering expert results.

ROCK Robotic
Current Gen
ROCK Robotic

ROCK Ultra

Highest Accuracy Drone LiDAR

LiDAR Sensor Hesai AT128
Point Rate 7.68M pts/sec
Accuracy <2cm absolute
Survey-grade corridor mapping Power line inspection
ROCK Robotic
Current Gen
ROCK Robotic

ROCK R3 Pro V2

Premium Third-Party LiDAR

LiDAR Sensor Hesai XT32M2X
Point Rate 640K pts/sec
Returns 5 returns
Survey-grade topographic work Contractually guaranteed accuracy

Need Help Choosing?

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