In 2025, drone technology is changing with each passing day, but for users with limited budgets, how to find a balance between high-precision mapping and cost is always a challenge.
RTK (Real-time Kinematic) and PPK (Post-processed Kinematic) technologies have completely changed the rules of the mapping game with centimeter-level positioning accuracy, but unfortunately most drones equipped with these features cost tens of thousands or even hundreds of thousands of dollars.
Is the Low Budget RTK PPK Drone worth buying? How do they perform? How to choose an RTK drone under $3,000? Here, we tell you about an RTK PPK Drone that is ideal for users with limited budgets in 2025 - Autel EVO II PRO RTK V3.
What are RTK and PPK, and why are they important?
Let's talk about RTK and PPK briefly. RTK allows drones to obtain centimeter-level positioning accuracy in flight by receiving correction signals from base stations or networks (such as NTRIP) in real time, which is suitable for scenarios that require real-time data, such as construction site monitoring.
PPK processes raw GNSS data through software after flight to correct position information. It is suitable for unstable signals or long-distance missions, such as remote farmland mapping. Both can greatly reduce the need for ground control points, saving time and effort.
View More: Drone Mapping: RTK VS PPK VS GCP
Autel EVO II Pro RTK V3: Top-level mapping drone in a low budget
The Autel EVO II Pro RTK V3 is a mid-to-high-end model launched by Autel Robotics. It has a built-in RTK module and supports PPK function. The whole set includes Smart Controller V3 (2000 nit screen), battery and accessories. The daily price is US$2,999 and the promotional price is around US$2,699. Compared with DJI Matrice 350 RTK (about US$15,000) or WingtraOne (US$20,000+), it is obviously the leader in the "low-budget RTK drone" camp.
High-precision positioning: EVO II Pro RTK V3 has centimeter-level accuracy. The horizontal accuracy can reach 1 cm + 1 ppm, and the vertical accuracy can reach 1.5 cm + 1 ppm. The PPK mode can also achieve a similar level through post-processing.
Imaging capabilities: The 1-inch CMOS sensor supports 6K/30fps video and 20MP photos, with a dynamic range of 12 stops. The 6K camera also supports adjustable aperture, ND filter and multiple shooting modes. The Moonlight Algorithm 2.0 allows you to get clear details and reduce sharp noise at night.
Endurance and coverage: Up to 40 minutes of flight time, up to 15 kilometers of transmission distance, with the support of SkyLink 2.0 three-band transmission, the picture can be kept stable and smooth.
Screen brightness: Autel EVO II PRO RTK V3 comes with a remote control with a built-in screen, Autel Smart Controller V3, 7.9 inches, with a screen brightness of up to 2000 nits, and there is no pressure to adjust parameters in the midday sun.
Price advantage: $2,800 includes RTK function, which is more cost-effective than DJI Phantom 4 RTK (about $5,000) or upgrade kit, and buying RTK module (such as Topodrone PPK, about $2,000 plus second-hand Mavic 2 Pro).
Learn More about Autel RTK Drone Land Surveying
When conducting drone land surveying tasks, RTK or PPK tasks can be used when measuring hectares of land. The aircraft can record a variety of data such as raw satellite observation data and camera exposure parameters. The positioning system supports A-RTK base station and RTK network, and can provide stable and accurate data collection in complex operating environments.
When the data collector has high requirements for convenience and real-time performance, and there is a network communication link in the survey area, it is recommended to use RTK. If the data collector does not have high requirements for real-time performance, or is in an environment with poor network communication, the PPK post-processing method can be used.
The drone image data collected by Autel EVO II PRO RTK V3 can be imported into Autel Mapper to generate orthophotos. It can also be imported into other third-party mapping software to generate the 2D/3D models you want.
Related More: Case Study: Autel RTK Drone Land Surveying
Low-budget RTK drone alternatives: DIY or second-hand?
The $2,999 RTK drone is very exciting. Do you still want an RTK drone under $3,000? DIY RTK drones or second-hand RTK drones are also options.
DIY RTK drones refer to combining drones and RTK kits, which is suitable for users who fully understand the performance of drones. The performance of second-hand RTK drones is difficult to guarantee, and the aging of accessories may increase maintenance costs.
In contrast, EVO II Pro RTK V3 is a new solution that is more worry-free and considers our best solution.
Summary
Autel EVO II Pro RTK V3 proves that high-precision drones do not have to be expensive. With a price tag of $2,999, centimeter-level RTK/PPK performance, 6K imaging, and 40 minutes of battery life, it stands out in the low-budget market of 2025.
