Compare: Echosounders
Single-beam versus multibeam: line soundings with sediment penetration, or full coverage of the bed. This table compares 2 models (HydroBeam S2, HydroBeam M4) using figures from the manufacturers' published datasheets. Choose "Only differences" to hide rows where every model is the same, or open a model for its full specification page.
Specifications side by side
Unmanned survey boats (USVs)EchosoundersGNSS RTK receiversHandheld SLAM scannersDrone LiDARCompact 360° LiDAR for robotsLivox long-range LiDAR
Rows where the models differ are marked with an orange bar. On a phone, swipe the table sideways to see every model.
| Model |  HydroBeam S2Get Quote |  HydroBeam M4Get Quote |
|---|---|---|
| Use | ||
| Best for | Depth surveys and silt studies from a launch | Full-coverage mapping of channels and structures |
| Sonar | ||
| Type | Single-beam, dual channel | Multibeam |
| Frequency | 200 kHz + 24 kHz | 400 kHz |
| Depth range | 0.15 to 300 m (HF); 1 to 1000 m (LF) | 0.2 to 200 m |
| Accuracy / resolution | ±0.01 m ± 0.1% D; 1 cm (HF) | 7.5 mm resolution |
| Coverage | One point below the boat | Swath 8° to 150°, 512 to 1024 beams |
| Ping rate | 50 Hz | Up to 30 Hz |
| Sediment penetration | Yes, 24 kHz channel | No |
| System | ||
| Motion and heading | External sensors | Built in: heading 0.08°, attitude 0.02° |
| Sound velocity | External | Built-in sensor |
| Display | Built-in 15 in screen | Laptop / software |
| Physical | ||
| Weight | 8.1 kg deck unit | 5.9 kg transducer, 2.6 kg deck unit |
| Power | DC 10 to 30 V or AC, 50 W | DC 10 to 32 V or AC, 60 W |
| Protection | IP66 deck unit | Sonar head rated to 50 m |
From the manufacturers' published datasheets. "Not offered" means the model does not have that feature.
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