UAV selection guide · 2026-11-01
Best laser rangefinder module for drones: shortlist by job
For most drones the best fit is a 905 nm UART module of 10 to 18 g: LR1200E2 reads 4-1,200 m at 10 g for $90 USD, and LRF3000A1 reaches 3,000 m at 12 g for $200 USD. Pick a 1535 nm module, such as the 14 g LRF0305C at $500 USD, when you need 4 km or more with eye-safe pulse energy. All prices below are per piece with worldwide shipping included, and the minimum order is one piece.
| Model | Wavelength | Range | Weight | Interface | 1 pc price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| LR1000E2 | 905 nm | 4-1,000 m | 10 g | UART (TTL) | $80 USD |
| LR1200E2 | 905 nm | 4-1,200 m | 10 g | UART (TTL) | $90 USD |
| LR2000E2 | 905 nm | 4-2,000 m | see datasheet | UART (TTL) | $120 USD |
| LRF1200A1 | 905 nm | 5-1,200 m | 18 g | UART (TTL) | $90 USD |
| LRF3000A1 | 905 nm | up to 3,000 m | 12 g | UART (TTL) | $200 USD |
| SPD1200N3 | 905 nm | 3-1,000 m | 6 g | UART (TTL) | $94.5 USD |
| LRF0305C | 1535 nm | up to 4,000 m | 14 g | UART (TTL) | $500 USD |
| LRF0610C | 1535 nm | up to 6,000 m | 90 g | TTL / RS-422 | $1,000 USD |
The best drone laser rangefinder module is the one whose range condition, update rate, mass, interface and optical axis match the payload—not the one with the largest headline distance.
For altitude measurement
Prioritise minimum range, update rate, beam divergence, vibration behaviour and a host interface you can validate in flight. SPD1200ZG publishes 0.1–1,200 m, UART-TTL and a weight of ≤5 g; LRF3000A1 publishes ≥3,000 m maximum distance, 3–10 Hz normal update and 12 ± 0.5 g. The surface, incidence angle and atmospheric return still decide whether the reading is usable.
For a gimbal payload
Match the module to the gimbal opening, payload mass, power rail and data path. A compact 905 nm record such as LR1000E2 publishes 4–1,000 m, UART-TTL and ≤10 g. A 1535 nm record such as LRF0305C publishes target-specific conditions and a UART-TTL interface; it needs a different optical, electrical and qualification review.
For long-distance observation
Use the condition, not the headline, to shortlist. LRF1831C publishes ≥6,500 m to a 5 m × 15 m target and ≥12,000 m to a 20 m × 20 m target at the stated line-of-sight, visibility and humidity conditions. That is not a promise for every scene. Ask for the target, reflectance, visibility and update-rate test that resembles your mission.
When ERDI is not the right fit
Do not select an ERDI module when your design requires a complete flight controller driver, a guaranteed result on low-reflectance or heavily obscured targets, a certified finished instrument, a different wavelength, or a mechanical and thermal envelope the current record cannot meet. In those cases, keep the requirement open and compare the complete system—not only the sensor board.
FAQ
Does ERDI provide a Pixhawk driver?
The public ERDI records do not claim an official Pixhawk driver. Plan a custom UART-to-MAVLink or companion-computer path and validate frames on the exact hardware.
Can the maximum range be used as an altitude guarantee?
No. Maximum range is conditional on target, reflectance, visibility, alignment and other stated test conditions.
Related model records
Open the exact model page for current specifications, conditions and integration documents.