Quick Answer
The Emlid Reach RX is a compact, affordable RTK rover that covers L1/L2 GPS and GLONASS. The Reach RX2 adds multi-band support across all four major constellations (GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, BeiDou) and delivers faster fix times in challenging environments. If you work near trees or buildings, the RX2 is worth the extra cost. For open-sky surveying on a budget, the RX is still a capable option.
What They Share
Both receivers are designed as lightweight rovers for use with a base station. They connect to your phone via Bluetooth and work with the Emlid Flow app for point collection, stakeout, and area measurement. Both support RTK corrections via NTRIP or LoRa radio. Both are small enough to mount on a survey pole with smartphone mount without adding significant weight.
Neither receiver works as a base station. If you need to set up your own base, look at the Reach RS4 instead, which supports both base and rover modes.
Key Differences
| Feature | Reach RX | Reach RX2 |
|---|---|---|
| GNSS bands | L1/L2 dual-frequency | Multi-band (L1/L2/L5) |
| Constellations | GPS, GLONASS | GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, BeiDou |
| Time to first fix | Longer | Faster |
| Performance under canopy | Good | Significantly better |
| Battery | Internal, USB-C charging | Internal, USB-C charging |
| Weight | 67g | 65g |
| IP rating | IP67 | IP67 |
Where the RX2 Shines
The multi-band advantage of the Reach RX2 matters most in difficult signal environments. Near buildings, under tree canopy, or in urban canyons, having access to more satellite signals across more frequencies means the receiver can maintain an RTK fix where the RX might drop to float or single. The L5 band in particular provides better multipath resistance, which is the biggest source of positioning errors near reflective surfaces.
If your survey work takes you into environments with partial sky obstruction, the RX2 will save you time waiting for fixes and reduce the number of points you need to re-collect.
Where the RX Is Enough
The Reach RX is well-suited to open-sky environments: agricultural fields, construction sites with clear sightlines, and coastal or rural surveys. For straightforward topographic surveys and ground control point placement in good conditions, it delivers the same centimetre accuracy as the RX2. The two-constellation limitation is only a problem when satellite geometry is poor or when obstructions block part of the sky.
Using with Emlid Flow
Both receivers pair seamlessly with the Emlid Flow app. The free version handles basic point collection and measurement. For professional survey work, the Emlid Flow Survey plan adds CAD import/export, custom coordinate systems, and advanced stakeout features. The app experience is identical on both receivers, so your workflow does not change whichever model you choose.
Battery and Charging
Both receivers charge via USB-C and last a full working day on a charge. The IP67 rating means they handle rain and dust without issues. Keep a portable battery pack handy for long survey days, and charge via any USB-C cable. There is no proprietary charger to worry about.
Recommendation
If your budget allows, get the RX2. The multi-band capability is not something you can upgrade later, and the performance improvement in challenging environments makes it a more versatile tool. The RX remains a solid choice for users who primarily work in open terrain and want the most affordable entry into centimetre-accurate surveying.
For setting up your base station to pair with either rover, see our Emlid Reach base and rover guide. For getting started with the Flow app, our Emlid Flow surveying guide covers the basics. Browse all Emlid receivers and accessories in the GPS navigation systems collection.