Best Handheld GPS For Surveying: A Comprehensive Look

Last Updated Sep 22, 2023

Whether you’re a professional surveyor or a land owner, there’s no way around it: You need the best handheld GPS for surveying. Fortunately, with today’s ever-evolving technologies, finding a unit that fits your needs and requirements has always been challenging.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll review some of the leading options on the handheld GPS/GNSS market to determine which is best suited to help take your surveying process to another level.

As experts in the field of GPS, we’ll cover the pros and cons, features such as accuracy, portability, display, battery life, and software compatibility.

Keep reading as we dive into different features and our reviews of each unit so you can make an informed decision!

In a rush? Here’s a quick preview of our top picks for the best GPS device for surveying:

Best GPS Devices For Surveying Preview

Product Name	Review	Price	Rating
SMAJAYU GNSS Surveying System	Jump to Review	$2701 Buy Now	5 stars (10 ratings)
Te-Rich Handheld GPS GNSS Receiver	Jump to Review	$92.98 Buy Now	3.8 stars (138 ratings)
GPS Land Surveying Meter	Jump to Review	$165.00 Buy Now	2.7 stars (3 ratings)
EM90 Handheld GPS	Jump to Review	$85.83 Buy Now	3.5 stars (11 ratings)
BEVA Mini Handheld GPS for Surveying	Jump to Review	$92.98 Buy Now	3.8 stars (170 ratings)
Trimble R12	Jump to Review	$20,950 Buy Now	5 stars

How Does a Handheld GPS Device for Surveying Work?

Handheld GPS devices have revolutionized the world of surveying. These devices connect to satellites orbiting the Earth, allowing them to locate the device and any points it records accurately. The GPS receiver in the device uses the signals from these satellites to calculate the distance between the device and each satellite. With this information, the receiver can triangulate the device’s location and give the user precise coordinates.

Additionally, handheld GPS devices for surveying typically come with software that allows users to record and store location data, such as points or lines, and map out the topography and other features of the surrounding area. With the help of handheld GPS devices, surveyors can quickly and easily map out land and accurately gather data on the features of the land.

Important Terms for Handheld GPS/GNSS Units for Surveying

When it comes to handheld GPS units, you should know a few important terms and features before choosing a suitable device for your surveying needs.

Global Positioning System (GPS)

GPS is a technological marvel that has revolutionized how we measure and map our world.

GPS provides accurate, three-dimensional coordinates of any location on the planet by using a broad network of satellites orbiting the Earth and a receiver on the ground. This makes surveying faster, more accurate, and more efficient than traditional methods. It is beneficial for surveying large areas, inaccessible or hazardous terrains, and monitoring natural disasters.

Surveyors can collect real-time data and create 3D models of construction sites, mapping projects, and infrastructure with GPS.

You can find more about how GPS works here.

Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS)

In terms of surveying, GNSS is an essential satellite network that is widely used in the field. GPS.gov defines GNSS as any satellite constellation that provides positioning, navigation, and timing (PNT) services globally or locally.

This system accurately determines the height, position, velocity, and time for various applications, including surveying. With the ability to track multiple satellite signals simultaneously, GNSS allows for exact and efficient surveying measurements.

GNSS has become an integral part of modern surveying techniques and has played a vital role in shaping the field.

Accuracy is Everything

In the world of surveying, accuracy is everything. The 2 things that matter are Horizontal and Vertical position.

It does you no good just to know where your horizontal location is, like when using your phone to navigate to an address. You must also know the height a point is at. This is why professional survey equipment uses poles to mount the receiver on.

For example, if I am sent to survey an area that is flooding all the time, after surveying and plugging the data into CAD software, we can see where the low spots are and calculate the amount of dirt needed to level the area.

So, getting to a survey grade accuracy of sub-centimeter takes expensive GNSS receiver equipment. If you just want a rough survey and don’t need that accuracy, inexpensive handhelds will do fine.

Geographic Information Systems (GIS)

GIS is a technology that has evolved the way data is recorded and mapped in the field of surveying. While GPS is commonly used to locate and track the position of objects and people, GIS takes it one step further by capturing and visualizing spatial information on maps.

This powerful software integrates data from various sources to provide a layered view of a location, making it easier for professionals to analyze, understand, and make informed decisions.

With GIS pulling GPS data, surveyors can create maps for diverse applications, including utility mapping, route planning, environmental analysis, and more.

Real-Time Kinematics (RTK-GPS)

RTK is an advanced GPS technique surveyors use to obtain extremely accurate real-time positioning data. It allows for faster and more precise measurements with up to one-hundred times greater accuracy than standard GPS surveys. This is achieved using a base station to send correction data to the rover, which receives the information and updates the position almost instantly.

Most professional GNSS survey equipment will come with the ability to be either a Base or Rover, so if you buy 2 of them, you set what you want each one to be.

RTK is a groundbreaking technology that has revolutionized the surveying field, enabling surveyors to achieve a level of accuracy that was previously impossible.

Real-Time Differential (RTD-GPS)

RTD is a highly precise method of surveying that relies on a radio transmitter at the base station to transmit pseudo-range and range rate corrections to the roving receivers in near-real time. This technique is essential for surveying applications that require high accuracy and precision, such as construction or land development.

Using RTD-GPS, surveyors can ensure that their measurements are accurate within a few centimeters, even in challenging environments like densely populated urban areas or rugged terrain.

How to Use a GPS for Surveying

To begin, you’ll need a few important pieces of equipment;

• Handheld GPS Device; This tool is crucial for collecting data. Look for a reliable device with a long battery life. Popular brands like Trimble are recommended.
• GPS Receiver/Rover Combo; This equipment combo receives signals from the GPS satellites. Sends them to your handheld device resulting in highly accurate positioning. It is usually mounted on a pole for portability and good signal acquisition.
• Mapping Software; You’ll require this software to analyze and interpret the data collected by your GPS device. Examples include ArcGIS, QGIS, and Google Earth.

Now let’s go through the six steps involved in utilizing the GPS for surveying;

Step 1: Planning

Before diving into data collection, proper planning is crucial. Determine the area you’ll be surveying and identify any potential obstacles, such as buildings or dense vegetation.

Step 2: Setting Up Equipment

Once your survey plan is ready it’s time to set up your equipment. Start by turning on both your GPS device and receiver while ensuring they establish communication. Additionally, calibrate your device to guarantee data collection.

Step 3: Gathering Information

To begin make sure your device is ready and then start gathering information. Take a walk around the survey area. Make occasional stops to note down points of interest. These could be things like property boundaries, landmarks or any other relevant features you come across.

Step 4: Transferring Information to Mapping Software

Once you have collected all the data it’s time to transfer it to your mapping software. Generally, this involves connecting your GPS device to a computer and uploading the data.

Step 5: Analyzing the Data

Once your data is in the mapping software, you can start analyzing it. This might include creating maps identifying any patterns that emerge from the data or calculating areas of interest.

Step 6: Applying Your Survey Data

Finally, you can put your survey data to use for various purposes. This could involve planning construction projects, designing landscapes or gardens, determining property boundaries managing farmland effectively. The possibilities are endless!

Remember that successful surveying requires planning, accurate data collection techniques, and thoughtful analysis. By following these steps, you’ll soon become adept at how to use a handheld GPS for surveying.

Features to Look For in GPS Units for Surveying

When surveying, having a reliable and accurate handheld GPS unit is essential. But with a wide range of GPS units available, it can be confusing with what to look for. When selecting a device, there are several essential features to keep in mind:

• Accuracy: Accuracy is crucial when choosing a handheld GPS unit, especially for surveying purposes. Look for devices with high precision and accuracy down to the centimeter range.

• Display: An excellent handheld GPS unit will have a clear and easy-to-read screen, so you can easily see readings in any environment.

• Battery Life: Long battery life is essential for surveying, as the device will likely need to be used for extended periods without access to an external power source. When searching for a device, choose a durable battery that can provide sufficient power for your needs.

• Connectivity: Most handheld GPS units now have wireless connectivity, allowing users to access their handheld devices remotely or stream data in real-time. This is especially useful for surveying larger areas or tracking mobile objects.

• Software: The software that comes with a handheld GPS unit can be just as essential as the hardware. Look for units with specialized surveying software that allows you to efficiently record and store data, create maps, and more. Also, ensure the software is compatible with the other applications you will be using. Make sure you are not purchasing a handheld GPS for hiking.

• Weatherproofing: Surveying can take you to unexpected places and weather conditions. Look for a weatherproof and dustproof device to ensure it will survive the harshest conditions.

• Durability: Durability is essential when selecting a handheld GPS device for surveying. It’s important to find durable handheld devices built to endure regular use in all conditions.

When you understand what exactly to look for when choosing a GPS unit for surveying, you can be sure to find the ideal device for your needs.

See our detailed reviews of the best handheld GPS devices for surveying below:

6 Best Handheld GPS Devices for Surveying

SMAJAYU GNSS Surveying System LP80 Handheld RTK-GPS

Details & First Impressions:

The SMAJAYU GNSS Surveying System LP80 Handheld RTK-GPS is a powerful surveying combo that combines the latest GPS technology with a handheld and base station design. This device offers centimeter-level positioning accuracy, allowing surveyors to obtain exact measurements in real time.

It also features Bluetooth, radio, storage, positioning, inertial navigation, antenna, and other modules for maximum efficiency. With its long battery life and lightweight construction of 9.39 lbs., this handheld GPS device is perfect for surveying large areas.

The SMAJAYU GNSS Surveying System supports many common file formats for exporting your data. The device looks sleek and modern with its all-black exterior and ergonomic shape, making it comfortable to hold during extended use.

We appreciated that the device supported multiple satellite systems such as BDS, GPS, GLONASS, and Galileo, ensuring accurate readings in challenging environments such as densely populated urban areas or rugged terrain. Moreover, the 10000mAh battery was impressive as it offered up to 14 hours of continuous use, making it ideal for surveying larger areas without access to external power.

Performance and Overall Experience:

We had a great experience with the SMAJAYU GNSS Surveying System and LP80 Handheld RTK-GPS. It performed exceptionally well in challenging environments with centimeter-level accuracy. The device also impressed us with its wide range of features, including Bluetooth, radio, storage, positioning, inertial navigation, antenna, and other modules.

We also liked the battery life of 14 hours and lightweight construction that makes it ideal for surveying larger areas without access to external power. Finally, we appreciated its sleek and modern all-black exterior design. The SMAJAYU GNSS Surveying System is an excellent device for surveyors looking for a reliable and accurate handheld GPS.

Tested Features:

• Accuracy
• Battery life
• Rover and base station setup
• Satellite connectivity
• Wireless control

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Te-Rich Handheld GPS GNSS Receiver

Details & First Impressions:

The Te-Rich Handheld GPS GNSS Receiver is a powerful surveying tool combining the latest GPS and GLONASS navigation satellite systems with an easy-to-use design. The device offers 5 feet of accuracy, 32 hours of battery life, and weighs only 6.3 ounces for maximum efficiency. With this GPS device, surveyors can obtain highly precise measurements in real-time from any environment.

We were immediately impressed by the Te-Rich Handheld GPS Receiver. The device looks sleek and modern with its black and teal exterior and is ergonomically designed for comfortable use during extended periods. It also features a 2.4 inch 128 x 160 LCD screen that makes readings clear and easy to read in any environment.

The rechargeable battery provided 32 hours of continuous use with a single charge, making it ideal for surveying large areas without access to external power. Additionally, the device supports GPS and GLONASS navigation satellite systems for accurate readings on any piece of land.

Performance and Overall Experience:

Our team liked the Te-Rich Handheld GPS GNSS Receiver. The device performed exceptionally well in challenging environments, even with the 5 feet of accuracy. We were also impressed by its 32 hours of battery life. After a full charge, we didn’t have to worry about charging it again for a while.

The 2.4″ LCD screen was easy to read in most conditions while still compact enough to carry around on any survey mission. Furthermore, we liked that it supported GPS and GLONASS navigation satellites.

Tested Features:

• Accuracy
• Battery life
• Satellite connectivity
• Ease of use
• Readability

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