Home Blog > Trimble Total Station Comparison: RTS vs SPS vs S Series
Trimble Total Station Comparison: RTS vs SPS vs S Series
Written by Braxton

Trimble Total Station Comparison: RTS vs SPS vs S Series

Trimble Total Station Comparison: RTS vs SPS vs S Series

Total stations come in different configurations depending on the job—whether it’s heavy civil construction, interior layout, or high-precision surveying. This overview breaks down three major Trimble Inc. series: SPS (construction), RTS (MEP layout), and S Series (surveying), along with the key models in each lineup.

SPS Series (Heavy Civil & Machine Control)

The SPS Series is designed primarily for heavy civil construction and is commonly used in machine control applications. These instruments are typically paired with Trimble Siteworks software and prioritize durability and reliable accuracy on job sites.

SPS 930
The SPS 930 is the most widely used model in this series. It is often configured with 1 arcsecond accuracy, making it the most precise option in the SPS lineup. Due to its performance and reliability, it is commonly used in machine control applications where accuracy is critical.

SPS 730
The SPS 730 is a mid-range option, usually available in 3 arcsecond accuracy. It is slightly more affordable than the 930 and offers a balance between performance and cost. This model is often used for both machine control and general layout tasks.

SPS 720
The SPS 720 is the entry-level model in the SPS series. It is primarily used for layout work and does not include machine control capabilities. As a result, it is less commonly used in heavy civil workflows that require automation.

RTS Series (MEP Layout)

The RTS Series is built for mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) layout tasks. These total stations are typically paired with field layout software and are optimized for indoor and jobsite layout workflows.

RTS 873
The RTS 873 is the highest-end model in the RTS lineup. It does not include a traditional telescope and instead relies on Trimble Vision technology. It also features a green beam auto-focusing layout laser, which improves visibility and precision—especially in bright conditions.

RTS 773
The RTS 773 is the most commonly used model in this series. It includes both Trimble Vision and a standard telescope, along with a red beam laser. While effective, the red beam can be harder to see in daylight compared to the green beam on the 873.

RTS 673
The RTS 673 is the most budget-friendly option in the RTS series. It includes a track light located below the lens to help locate and follow the prism. Like the 773, it uses a red beam laser.

S Series (Surveying)

The S Series is designed for surveying professionals and is typically paired with Trimble Access software. These instruments focus on precision, flexibility, and advanced features such as monitoring and imaging.

S9
The S9 is the highest-end model in the S Series. It offers extremely high accuracy, available in 0.5 or 1 arcsecond configurations. It also supports monitoring applications and advanced add-ons, making it ideal for high-precision and specialized surveying work.

S7
The S7 is one of the most commonly used models in the S Series. It is often configured at 3 arcseconds but is also available in 1, 2, and 5 arcsecond options. It includes Trimble Vision technology, making it versatile for a range of surveying tasks.

S5
The S5 is a more streamlined surveying option. It is commonly used in 3 arcsecond configurations, with additional 1 and 5 arcsecond options available. Unlike the S7 and S9, it does not include Trimble Vision, which makes it a more cost-effective choice for standard surveying needs.

Final Thoughts

Each Trimble total station series is designed with a specific use case in mind:

  • SPS Series: Best for heavy civil construction and machine control

  • RTS Series: Ideal for MEP and construction layout

  • S Series: Built for precision surveying and advanced workflows

Choosing the right model depends on the required accuracy, features, and application. Understanding these differences helps ensure the right tool is used for the job.

For more information about Trimble total stations or to determine which model best fits a specific application, contact 4K Equipment to learn more or to get assistance with selecting the right total station.