In the world of geodesy and drone mapping, precision is paramount. Professionals in the Benelux countries are constantly looking for reliable technological solutions. Our DJI D-RTK 3 vs Emlid Reach RS3 comparison helps you choose the ideal RTK system for your needs. These two RTK (Real-Time Kinematic) systems are distinguished by their ability to deliver ultra-precise positioning data in real time, but they differ significantly in terms of price and functionality.
Whether you’re a surveyor carrying out topographic surveys or a drone pilot carrying out infrastructure inspections, choosing the right RTK system can considerably improve the quality of your work. We will analyze in detail the technical specifications, functionalities, specific use cases and value for money of these two systems to offer you a comprehensive and objective comparison.
What is an RTK system and why is it important in the DJI vs Emlid RTK comparison?
Before going into the details of our comparison, it’s essential to understand what RTK technology is and why it has become indispensable for many professionals.
RTK (Real-Time Kinematic) technology is a satellite positioning technique that considerably improves the accuracy of GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) data. Unlike traditional GPS systems, which offer an accuracy of several meters, RTK systems enable centimetric accuracy to be achieved in real time.
The operating principle is based on the use of two GNSS receivers: a fixed base station positioned at a known point and a mobile receiver (rover). The base station calculates the corrections needed to compensate for atmospheric errors and transmits them to the rover, enabling exceptionally precise positioning.
This technology is particularly important for :
- Surveyors for precise topographical surveys
- UAV pilots carrying out mapping or inspection missions
- Construction professionals who need exact measurements
- Farmers practicing precision agriculture
- Researchers collecting geospatial data
In the specific context of the Benelux, where urbanization is dense and development projects complex, having a reliable RTK system is often a necessity rather than a luxury.
Detailed system overview in our RTK comparison DJI vs Emlid
The DJI D-RTK 3: key features

The DJI D-RTK 3 is the latest generation multi-functional RTK station developed by DJI, the world leader in UAVs. It stands out for its versatility and seamless integration with the DJI ecosystem.
Key features
The DJI D-RTK 3 is a multifunctional docking station that integrates several operating modes:
- Base Station (Broadcast) mode: Provides precise data for centimeter-accurate positioning, enhancing the operational accuracy of multiple DJI drones simultaneously.
- Station Relay mode: after connection to a compatible drone and remote control, can be installed at height to act as a communications relay, avoiding signal blockages during operations.
- Mobile Station Mode (Rover): Used as a portable mapping device to measure control points.
Technical specifications
The DJI D-RTK 3 offers impressive performance:
- RTK accuracy in fixed mode: Horizontal: 0.8 cm + 1 ppm, Vertical: 1.5 cm + 1 ppm
- Accuracy with tilt compensation: Angle range: 0° to 60°, Horizontal: 8 mm + 0.7 mm/° tilt (accuracy <2 cm up to 30°)
- GNSS systems supported: GPS L1/L2, GLONASS L1/L2, BeiDou B1/B2, Galileo E1/E5, QZSS L1/L2
- Maximum range: 15 km in RTK mode, 25 km in Relay mode
- Initialization reliability: >99.9%
- Differential data transmission formats: RTCM 3.2
- Protection: IP67 (water and dust resistant)
Compatibility and integration
One of the main advantages of the DJI D-RTK 3 is its native integration with DJI drones. It is compatible with several models, including :
- Matrice 300 RTK series
- Matrice 350 RTK series
- Matrice 4 series
- Phantom 4 RTK
- DJI Dock 3
This integration enables simplified configuration and a smooth user experience for pilots already familiar with the DJI ecosystem.
Emlid Reach RS3: a serious contender in the DJI D-RTK 3 vs Emlid RS3 comparison

The Emlid Reach RS3 is a multiband RTK GNSS receiver designed to provide centimeter accuracy for surveying, mapping and navigation. Developed by Emlid, this system stands out for its flexibility, numerous connectivity options and IMU-based tilt compensation functionality.
Key features
Emlid Reach RS3 features :
- High-precision IMU: Allows tilt compensation (RTK + 2 mm + 0.3 mm/°)
- Immunity to magnetic interference: Operates in environments with interference
- Dual-band radio: LoRa 868/915 MHz to receive and transmit corrections, UHF 450 MHz to receive corrections
- Signal tracking: GPS/QZSS, GLONASS L1, L2; BeiDou B1, B2; Galileo E1, E5
- Integrated LTE modem: For global connectivity
- NTRIP and RTCM3 support: To send and receive corrections
- Excellent battery life: 18 hours with tilt compensation, 22 hours recording time
Technical specifications
The performance of Emlid Reach RS3 is remarkable:
- Accuracy in static mode: Horizontal: 4 mm + 0.5 ppm, Vertical: 8 mm + 1 ppm
- PPK accuracy: Horizontal: 5 mm + 0.5 ppm, Vertical: 10 mm + 1 ppm
- RTK accuracy: Horizontal: 7 mm + 1 ppm, Vertical: 14 mm + 1 ppm
- Tilt compensation: RTK + 2 mm + 0.3 mm/°.
- Number of channels: 184
- Update rate: Up to 10 Hz
- Internal storage: 16 GB
- Dimensions: 126 x 126 x 142 mm
- Weight: 950 g
- Operating temperature: -20°C to +65°C
- Protection class: IP67
- Battery: Li-Ion 5200 mAh, 7.2 V, 37.44 Wh
Connectivity and flexibility
The Emlid Reach RS3 offers a wide range of connectivity options:
- LoRa radio: 868/915 MHz, range up to 8 km
- UHF radio: 410-470 MHz (reception only)
- Global LTE modem with nano-SIM support
- Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n
- Bluetooth 4.0/2.1 EDR
- RS-232 port
- USB Type-C
This flexibility enables integration with a wide range of hardware and software applications, making it an adaptable solution for a variety of professional workflows.
Technical comparison of DJI D-RTK 3 vs Emlid RS3 systems
To better understand the strengths and weaknesses of each system in our DJI D-RTK 3 vs. Emlid RS3 comparison, let’s analyze their technical performance in different areas.
Precision and performance
In terms of RTK accuracy, the two systems offer similar performance:
- DJI D-RTK 3: Horizontal: 0.8 cm + 1 ppm, Vertical: 1.5 cm + 1 ppm
- Emlid Reach RS3: Horizontal: 7 mm + 1 ppm, Vertical: 14 mm + 1 ppm
Both systems feature tilt compensation, enabling precise measurements even when the rod is not perfectly vertical:
- DJI D-RTK 3: 0° to 60° angle range, 8 mm horizontal accuracy + 0.7 mm/° tilt (accuracy <2 cm up to 30°)
- Emlid Reach RS3: RTK tilt compensation + 2 mm + 0.3 mm/°.
This feature is a considerable asset for professionals, significantly speeding up field work by eliminating the need to perfectly level the rod for each measurement.
The Emlid Reach RS3 also specifies its accuracy in static and PPK modes, which can be useful for certain types of work. Its fast convergence time (around 5 seconds) is also a plus for efficiency in the field.
The DJI D-RTK 3 stands out for its impressive range in Relay mode (up to 25 km), which is crucial for operations in large or hard-to-reach areas.
GNSS systems and reception
Both systems support the main GNSS constellations:
- DJI D-RTK 3: GPS L1/L2, GLONASS L1/L2, BeiDou B1/B2, Galileo E1/E5, QZSS L1/L2
- Emlid Reach RS3: GPS/QZSS L1C/A, L2C, GLONASS L1OF, L2OF, BeiDou B1I, B2I, Galileo E1-B/C, E5b
This multi-constellation compatibility means better coverage and accuracy, particularly in urban environments where signals can be obstructed.
The Emlid Reach RS3 has 184 channels, enabling it to track a large number of satellites simultaneously. The DJI D-RTK 3 does not specify its number of channels, but probably offers comparable performance.
Connectivity and communication
It is in the area of connectivity that the differences between the two systems are most marked:
- DJI D-RTK 3: Native integration with the DJI ecosystem, O4 Enterprise transmission with a maximum RTK range of 15 km
- Emlid Reach RS3: Dual-band radio (LoRa + UHF), global LTE modem, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, RS-232, USB Type-C
The Emlid Reach RS3 clearly offers more connectivity options, making it more flexible for different usage scenarios. The integrated LTE modem is particularly useful for accessing NTRIP corrections without relying on an internet connection on a smartphone.
The DJI D-RTK 3, meanwhile, excels in integration with DJI drones, offering a smoother user experience for those already using this ecosystem.
Autonomy and storage
The Emlid Reach RS3 stands out for its impressive autonomy:
- 18 hours as RTK rover with tilt compensation
- 22 hours of recording
It also boasts 16 GB of internal storage, enabling data to be recorded over long periods.
The DJI D-RTK 3 has a range of :
Relay Station: 4 hours
Base Station:7 hours
Rover Station: 10 hours
Comparison of features and user experience
Beyond technical specifications, user experience and software functionality play a crucial role in the day-to-day efficiency of an RTK system.
User interface and software
The DJI D-RTK 3 integrates seamlessly with the DJI Pilot 2 application, providing a familiar interface for DJI drone users. Activation and configuration are simplified, and the station can also be activated via DJI Assistant 2 (Enterprise Series).
The Emlid Reach RS3 uses the Emlid Flow app for iOS and Android, which enables configuration and surveying operations. For post-processing, Emlid offers the Emlid Studio software. The interface is intuitive, but may require a learning curve for new users.
Flexibility and customization
The Emlid Reach RS3 offers even more customization options:
- Support for various data formats (RTCM3, NMEA, LLH/XYZ, RINEX, UBX)
- Compatibility with various third-party applications
- Automatic on/off synchronization with an external battery
The DJI D-RTK 3 is more oriented towards use with the DJI ecosystem, which may limit its flexibility for specific workflows.
Durability and design
Both systems are designed to withstand harsh field conditions:
- IP67 protection rating (water and dust resistant)
- Robust construction
The Emlid Reach RS3 specifies an operating temperature range of -20°C to +65°C, making it suitable for a variety of climatic conditions. The DJI D-RTK 3 does not specify its operating temperature range, but should offer similar resistance to environmental conditions.
Specific use cases for surveyors in Benelux: RTK DJI vs Emlid
Surveyors operating in Belgium, Luxembourg and the Netherlands have specific needs linked to the region’s dense urban environment and regulatory requirements. Our DJI D-RTK 3 vs Emlid RS3 comparison analyzes these particular needs.
Applications in surveying and topography
For traditional surveying work, both systems offer significant advantages:
- DJI D-RTK 3:
- Tilt compensation up to 60° (accuracy <2 cm up to 30°)
- Much more competitive price (1998€ vs. 3465€ for Emlid)
- Mobile Station (Rover) mode for measuring control points
- Intuitive user interface via the DJI Enterprise application
- Emlid Reach RS3:
- Slightly greater static accuracy (4 mm + 0.5 ppm horizontal)
- Excellent autonomy for long days in the field
- Compatibility with various surveying software packages
The tilt compensation available on both systems is particularly advantageous in the urban environments of the Benelux countries, where access to certain points can be difficult. It considerably speeds up field work, as the operator no longer needs to perfectly level the rod for each measurement.
For budget-conscious surveyors, the DJI D-RTK 3 offers excellent value for money, with features comparable to those of the Emlid Reach RS3, but at a significantly lower price.
Dense urban environments
In the dense urban areas of the Benelux, the challenges of signal obstructions and multipath are frequent. Both systems offer solutions:
- The DJI D-RTK 3 excels with its Relay Station mode, which overcomes signal limitations in urban or hilly areas, with a range of up to 25 km.
- The Emlid Reach RS3 benefits from its immunity to magnetic interference and its dual-band radio (LoRa + UHF), offering more options for establishing a reliable connection.
For work in complex urban environments, the DJI D-RTK 3 may have a slight advantage thanks to its Relay mode, while the Emlid Reach RS3 stands out for its flexible connectivity and tilt compensation.
Compatibility with local reference systems
Both systems can be configured to work with the reference systems used in the Benelux countries:
- ETRS89 (European Terrestrial Reference System 1989)
- National systems such as Lambert 72 (Belgium), LUREF (Luxembourg) or RD (Netherlands)
The Emlid Reach RS3 offers greater flexibility in the configuration of coordinate systems thanks to its Emlid Flow application, which enables conversion between different formats.
Use cases for drone pilots carrying out inspections
Drone pilots carrying out inspections and surveys in the Benelux have special requirements in terms of precision and integration.
Photogrammetry and mapping by drone
For drone photogrammetry and mapping, the DJI D-RTK 3 offers significant advantages:
- Native integration with DJI professional drones
- Support for simultaneous operation of multiple UAVs
- Raw satellite observation data can be imported into DJI Terra for PPK processing
The Emlid Reach RS3 can also be used for photogrammetry, but generally requires additional steps for integration with non-DJI drones.
Infrastructure inspection
For infrastructure inspections such as bridges, wind turbines or power lines, both systems offer advantages:
- The DJI D-RTK 3 integrates perfectly with DJI drones equipped with thermal or zoom cameras, ideal for inspections.
- Emlid Reach RS3 offers excellent accuracy for georeferencing defects detected during inspections.
The choice will depend mainly on the type of drone used and the specific inspection workflow.
Integration with data processing workflows
Integration with processing software is essential for professionals:
- DJI D-RTK 3 integrates natively with DJI Terra for flight data processing.
- Thanks to its standard data formats, Emlid Reach RS3 offers greater compatibility with a wide range of processing software.
For users already invested in the DJI ecosystem, the D-RTK 3 offers a smoother workflow. For those using other software solutions, the Emlid Reach RS3 may be more suitable.
Cost-benefit analysis of the DJI D-RTK 3 vs Emlid RS3 comparison
Investing in an RTK system is a major financial decision for professionals. Our DJI D-RTK 3 vs Emlid RS3 comparison includes a detailed cost-benefit analysis.
Price comparison
The prices of the two systems are significantly different:
- DJI D-RTK 3: €1599 + €399 for stand (total: €1998)
- Emlid Reach RS3: €3,465 including stand
This price difference of around €1467 is an important factor to consider in the purchasing decision. The DJI D-RTK 3 represents a more economical option, while the Emlid Reach RS3 is positioned as a premium solution with advanced features such as tilt compensation and dual-band radio.
Total cost of ownership
In addition to the initial purchase price, you need to consider :
- Accessories: Both systems may require additional accessories such as tripods, spare batteries or special cables.
- Subscriptions: To use NTRIP corrections, you may need to subscribe to an RTK correction service.
- Software: Emlid Studio is free, while DJI Terra may require a paid license for some advanced features.
Return on investment
To evaluate the return on investment, consider :
- Time-saving: the tilt compensation of the Emlid Reach RS3 can considerably reduce the time spent in the field by surveyors, which may justify its higher price tag for professionals who carry out a lot of surveying.
- Greater precision: Both systems deliver precise measurements, reducing errors and costly rework.
- Versatility: the Emlid Reach RS3 offers greater versatility for different types of project, while the DJI D-RTK 3 is more economical for those who work mainly with DJI drones.
- Initial cost vs. long-term value: Although the DJI D-RTK 3 is cheaper to buy, the Emlid Reach RS3 may offer better long-term value for some users, thanks to its advanced features and versatility.
Strengths and weaknesses in the DJI D-RTK 3 vs Emlid RS3 comparison
DJI D-RTK 3 highlights in our comparison
- Very competitive price (1998€ all-in, versus 3465€ for the Emlid)
- Tilt compensation up to 60° (accuracy <2 cm up to 30°)
- Seamless integration with the DJI ecosystem
- Relay Station mode with an impressive range of 25 km
- Support for simultaneous operation of multiple UAVs
- Obstacle detection with the Matrice
- Simplified configuration via the DJI Enterprise application
Weak points of the DJI D-RTK 3
- Less flexible for use outside the DJI ecosystem
- More limited connectivity options than Emlid
Emlid Reach RS3 highlights
- Tilt compensation comparable to DJI D-RTK 3
- Immunity to magnetic interference
- Dual-band radio (LoRa + UHF)
- Excellent autonomy (up to 18 hours with tilt compensation)
- Numerous connectivity options
- High flexibility with support for multiple data formats
- Generous internal storage (16 GB)
- Slightly higher accuracy in static mode
Weak points of Emlid Reach RS3
- Much higher price (€3,465, i.e. approximately €1,467 more than the DJI D-RTK 3)
- LoRa range limited to 8 km (compared with 25 km for the DJI D-RTK 3’s Relay mode)
- Less seamless integration with DJI drones
- Potentially longer learning curve
- Less optimized for multiple drone operations
Which system is right for you? Final comparison DJI D-RTK 3 vs Emlid RS3
The choice between the DJI D-RTK 3 and the Emlid Reach RS3 will mainly depend on your user profile and specific needs. Our DJI D-RTK 3 vs Emlid RS3 comparison will help you make the best decision.
For most professional users
For most surveyors and drone pilots, the DJI D-RTK 3 is the best choice for several reasons:
- Its much more competitive price (1998€ vs. 3465€ for Emlid)
- High-performance tilt compensation (up to 60° with <2 cm accuracy up to 30°)
- Impressive range in relay mode (25 km)
- Seamless integration with the DJI ecosystem
- Ease of configuration and use
The DJI D-RTK 3’s value for money is particularly attractive, offering comparable performance to the Emlid Reach RS3 at a much lower price.
For DJI drone pilots
If you mainly use DJI drones for mapping or inspection missions, the DJI D-RTK 3 is clearly the best choice. Its native integration with the DJI ecosystem offers a smooth user experience and optimized performance, all at a very competitive price.
For specific applications
Emlid Reach RS3 can be considered in certain special cases:
- If you need exceptional autonomy for very long missions
- If you need a wide range of connectivity options
- If you use specific software that is incompatible with the DJI D-RTK 3
However, the extra cost of around €1,467 compared with the DJI D-RTK 3 needs to be carefully weighed against your actual requirements.
For operations in difficult areas
If you frequently work in dense urban areas or rugged terrain where communication can be problematic, the DJI D-RTK 3 ‘s Relay Station mode with its 25 km range represents a decisive advantage over the 8 km range of the Emlid Reach RS3’s LoRa.
Conclusion of our DJI D-RTK 3 vs Emlid RS3 comparison
The DJI D-RTK 3 and Emlid Reach RS3 are two high-quality RTK systems that meet the needs of demanding professionals. After an in-depth analysis in our DJI D-RTK 3 vs Emlid RS3 comparison, the DJI D-RTK 3 stands out as the wisest choice for the majority of users.
The DJI D-RTK 3 excels with its exceptional value for money (1998€ vs. 3465€ for the Emlid), while offering comparable functionality, including powerful tilt compensation up to 60°. Its seamless integration with the DJI ecosystem and its Relay Station mode with an impressive 25 km range make it a versatile and powerful tool for Benelux professionals.
The Emlid Reach RS3, while offering a few extra features such as longer battery life and more connectivity options, doesn’t necessarily justify the extra cost of nearly €1,500 for most users.
For professionals in the Benelux, where dense urban environments and complex projects are commonplace, the DJI D-RTK 3 offers the most balanced solution, combining precision, advanced features and competitive pricing. Its excellent range in Relay mode is particularly advantageous in urban areas where signal obstructions are frequent.
Ultimately, unless you have very specific needs that justify the premium price of the Emlid Reach RS3, the DJI D-RTK 3 represents the wisest investment for surveyors and drone pilots wishing to significantly improve the accuracy and efficiency of their surveying and mapping operations.