Evaluation and performance assessment of a novel UAV-borne laser scanner system

We evaluate the performance of the newly introduced DJI Zenmuse L3 UAV-borne LiDAR system in comparison to its predecessor L2. We conducted test flights over three representative environments — built-up, infrastructure, and forested areas — to assess accuracy, precision, spatial resolution, and vegetation penetration. The L3 introduces a single high-performance 1535nm laser with reduced beam divergence and increased pulse repetition rate, enabling higher point density and improved measurement quality. Results show significantly enhanced precision (cm-level), better strip alignment, and improved capability to resolve fine structures such as power lines. Residual analysis indicates reduced noise and tighter point distributions compared to L2. Furthermore, vegetation penetration is substantially improved, achieving up to 77% ground coverage compared to 48% for L2 in our experiment. Despite minor systematic offsets, the L3 demonstrates clear advantages in all tested aspects, confirming its suitability for high-resolution 3D mapping and representing an advancement in low-cost UAV LiDAR technology.