Total Station Surveying vs GNSS/GPS Surveying: Which One Should You Choose?

Being that precision is key in surveying, there are two methods that have emerged as the most commonly used ones today - Total station surveying and GPS/GNSS surveying. While both methods are useful in collecting data, there are many differences between the two as well as situations where it it better to use one instead of the other.

In this article, we will try to explore the pros and cons of total station measurement versus GNSS measurement, which will help you determine which one to use in the particular measurement situation you may encounter.

Total Station Surveying

Total Station Survey Advantages and Disadvantages

Advantages of Total Station in Surveying

• High precision: Total station surveys are much more precise, which means that they are perfect for projects that require pinpoint accuracy.
• Can be used in difficult-to-access areas: Total stations can be used in areas that are hard to get to as long as the survey can clearly see the target, including steep slots and dense forests. The 
• Versatility: Total stations can be used for different surveying tasks, including construction layout, topographic surveys, and as-built surveys.
• The ability to measure both angles and distances: Total stations are able to measure both angles and distances, making it possible to calculate coordinates for any point.

Disadvantages of Total Station in Surveying

• Limited range: Total station surveys have a limit when it comes to range, usually around 2,000 meters (6,561 feet).
• Cost: Total station surveying can be a bit expensive, as the surveyors involved may need specific training while the equipment itself can be somewhat costly.
• Limited by visibility: Total station surveying is limited by visibility, meaning that it cannot be used in areas where the target is obscured by any obstacles.

GNSS/GPS Surveying

GPS Surveying Advantages and Disadvantages

GNSS surveying is perfect for large sites with an open sky, making it perfect and most convenient for large data collection. If you mount it to a vehicle or a GNSS pole, you can collect data even quicker, making it even more appropriate for field surveying.

GNSS receivers are also easy to set up and operate. They provide a much greater coverage than total stations and you don’t even need to have the object you are targeting in your line of sight. Its accuracy measures between 10mm to 30mm, both horizontally and vertically. 

GPS/GNSS Surveying Advantages

• Wide range: GNSS surveying has a very wide range, making it suitable for surveys of much larger areas and at greater speed.
• Cost-effective: GNSS surveying is relatively cost-effective, the equipment used is relatively cheap, and surveyors don’t require any specialized training.
• Can be used in areas with limited visibility: GNSS surveying can be used in areas where visibility is limited, including places like dense forests or urban areas.

GPS/GNSS Surveying Disadvantages

• Limited precision: GNSS surveying has limited precision, which means that it is not really suitable for situations that require very accurate measurements.
• Requires a clear view of the sky: GNSS surveying requires a clear view of the sky, making it ineffective in places where the sky is obscured, including underground mines or very densely populated areas.
• Depends on satellite signals: GNSS surveying is dependent on satellite signals, making it susceptible to factors such as the presence of tall buildings or atmospheric conditions.