Drone-Based 3D Scanning vs Ground Scanners

Trying to choose between drone-based 3D scanning and ground-based laser scanners? Learn the key differences, strengths, and use cases for each in this 2025 comparison

Drone-Based 3D Scanning vs Ground Scanners: Which Is Right for Your Project?

In today’s surveying and construction world, 3D scanning is no longer limited to ground-based tripods. With UAVs (Unmanned Aerial Vehicles) equipped with LiDAR or photogrammetry payloads, you can now scan large sites from above. But how do drone-based 3D scanners compare to traditional terrestrial scanners? This article breaks down the pros, cons, and ideal use cases of each approach.

What Is Drone-Based 3D Scanning?

Drone scanning involves mounting a LiDAR or high-resolution camera to a UAV to capture topographic or structural data from the air. There are two main methods:

LiDAR drones: Use laser pulses to collect 3D geometry
Photogrammetry drones: Capture images for 3D reconstruction

Common in mining, construction, and land development, drone scanning is valued for its speed and aerial perspective.

What Are Ground-Based Scanners?

Ground scanners — typically tripod-mounted LiDAR units like the FARO Focus or Leica RTC360 — capture ultra-precise 3D point clouds from fixed positions on site. They’re used for:

Building documentation
MEP scanning
Structural analysis

Drone Scanning: Pros & Cons

✅ Pros:
- Fast coverage of large areas
- Ideal for hazardous or inaccessible terrain
- Less manpower needed in the field
❌ Cons:
- Lower resolution and vertical accuracy
- Weather-dependent
- Requires airspace permissions and certified operators

Ground Scanning: Pros & Cons

✅ Pros:
- Millimeter-level precision
- Ideal for detailed architectural and structural scans
- Excellent for interiors and tight spaces
❌ Cons:
- Slower and labor-intensive
- Limited line-of-sight in dense environments
- May require multiple setups for full coverage

Comparison Table

Feature	Drone Scanning	Ground Scanning
Accuracy	3–10 cm (LiDAR)	1–3 mm
Coverage Speed	High	Medium
Best For	Topography, site mapping	Structure, interiors, details
Weather Dependence	Yes	No
Regulatory Restrictions	FAA, BVLOS limits	Minimal

When to Use Both

Many firms now combine both methods in a hybrid scanning strategy:

Use drones for terrain, roofs, and exteriors
Use ground scanners for interiors and precision modeling

Some workflows even merge point clouds into unified models for full-site visualization.

Conclusion

Choosing between drone and ground scanning depends on your project’s scope, environment, and accuracy requirements. Drones offer speed and scale, while ground units provide detail and reliability. Together, they can create comprehensive models that empower better decisions in construction, engineering, and surveying.

Need help deciding the best tech for your site? Explore our comparison toolkit or download the Drone vs Ground Scanning Buyer’s Guide.