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Drone Comparison

Skydio X10 vs DJI Matrice 400 RTK

An expert comparison to help you choose the right equipment for your project.

Feature Skydio X10 DJI Matrice 400 RTK
Autonomy AI-powered Waypoint missions
Obstacle Avoidance 360° AI vision Omnidirectional sensors
Thermal 640 × 512 -
Camera 50MP wide -
Flight Time 40 minutes 60+ minutes
Made In USA China
Service Pricing ~$25,000+ ~$16,000+
Option A Skydio

Skydio X10

AI-Powered Autonomous Flight

The Skydio X10 features industry-leading autonomous flight capabilities powered by AI. Six 4K navigation cameras enable obstacle avoidance and autonomous inspection. Made in USA.

Pros

  • Best-in-class autonomy
  • Made in USA
  • Superior obstacle avoidance
  • Autonomous inspection workflows
  • NDAA compliant

Cons

  • Smaller payload ecosystem
  • Less flight time
  • Higher cost
  • Limited LiDAR options

Best For

Autonomous inspectionsGovernment/defenseComplex environmentsNDAA-compliant operations
Option B DJI Enterprise

DJI Matrice 400 RTK

Enterprise Mapping Platform

The DJI Matrice 400 RTK is the flagship enterprise platform with 60+ minute flight time, excellent payload options (L3, P1, H30T), and proven reliability.

Pros

  • Proven reliability
  • Excellent payload options (L3, P1, H30T)
  • 60+ min flight time
  • Robust ecosystem
  • IP56+ weather rating

Cons

  • Not NDAA compliant
  • Security concerns for some
  • Manual flight primary
  • Chinese manufactured

Best For

Commercial mappingLiDAR operationsInspection where NDAA not requiredLong-range missions

Our Expert Verdict

Tie - Choose Based on Your Needs

For government and security-sensitive operations, Skydio X10 is essential for NDAA compliance. For commercial operations without restrictions, the DJI Matrice 400 RTK offers better value, longer flight times, and premium payload options.

Choose Skydio X10 if...

Choose Skydio X10 for autonomous inspections, government contracts, and NDAA-compliant requirements.

Choose DJI Matrice 400 RTK if...

Choose DJI Matrice 400 RTK for commercial mapping, LiDAR operations, and when regulations permit.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is NDAA compliance?

The National Defense Authorization Act restricts federal agencies from using drones from certain countries. Skydio is US-made and compliant.

Which is better for LiDAR?

DJI Matrice 400 RTK with Zenmuse L3 is currently the best aerial LiDAR platform available.

Can Skydio carry LiDAR?

Limited options. DJI has a more mature LiDAR ecosystem for aerial mapping.

Equipment Used

Professional Equipment In This Comparison

TheFuture3D operates all equipment featured in this comparison. We're certified professionals delivering expert results.

Skydio
Current Gen
Skydio

Skydio X10

AI-Powered Autonomous Inspection

Flight Time 45 minutes
Max Speed 72 km/h
Wind Resistance 14 m/s
Complex structure inspections Bridge and tower inspections
DJI
Current Gen
DJI

DJI Matrice 400 RTK

Heavy-Lift LiDAR Platform

Flight Time 60+ minutes (no payload)
Max Payload 3.5+ kg
Max Takeoff Weight 10+ kg
LiDAR surveying missions Large-area mapping (500+ acres/day)

Need Help Choosing?

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