The 400km/h Sensor Is Not Our Default Matek Pick
Quick Answer
For most ArduPilot fixed-wing and VTOL builds with CAN, we would choose the Matek ASPD-DLVR-L431: it combines DroneCAN wiring with a 227km/h published range. The ASPD-4525 is the simpler I2C option; the ASPD-AUAV earns its place when 400km/h headroom or its better still-air offset matters.
Three Sensors, Three Different Jobs
Matek's names hide the decision. All three kits measure differential pressure through a pitot tube, but their interfaces and useful ranges are not interchangeable. If you first need the principle rather than the shopping decision, read our explanation of pitot airspeed sensing.
| Model | Interface | Pressure range | Published speed | Board weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ASPD-4525 | I2C | 6.89kPa | Not specified | 3.5g |
| ASPD-DLVR-L431 | DroneCAN or I2C | 2.5kPa | 227km/h | 4g |
| ASPD-AUAV | DroneCAN, I2C or MSP | 7.5kPa | 400km/h | 5g |
The Matek ASPD-4525 is the least complicated choice: one I2C connection, a TE 4525DO sensor and only 5mA draw. Its 4-5.5V official supply range, 3.5g board and -40°C to 125°C operating specification suit a straightforward aircraft whose flight controller and firmware explicitly support the MS4525 driver. We would not buy it merely because its 6.89kPa pressure range is larger than the DLVR's; pressure range alone does not tell you low-speed quality.
Why the DLVR Is Our Default CAN Pick
The genuine Matek ASPD-DLVR-L431 adds an L431 AP_Periph node, DroneCAN and a spare UART for an external GPS. It uses the DLVR-L10D sensor, draws 60mA at 4.5-5.5V and is specified from -20°C to 85°C. ArduPilot describes DLVR devices as its highest-precision, lowest-temperature-drift supported airspeed sensors.
That makes the DLVR our normal choice for a serious fixed-wing or VTOL build with a CAN bus. Use ARSPD_TYPE=8 for DroneCAN; direct I2C uses type 9 and address 0x28. Matek warns that ArduPilot omits DLVR I2C support by default on some 1MB flight controllers, including F405 and F745 families, so CAN also avoids a firmware-build trap.
When the AUAV Is Worth the Larger Board
The Matek ASPD-AUAV increases the pressure range to 7.5kPa and the published speed ceiling to 400km/h. It measures 36 × 32 × 7.3mm, weighs 5g, draws 26mA and supports DroneCAN, I2C or MSP. Matek also states that it has better offset in still air than the DLVR, a more useful distinction than its headline top speed for many aircraft.
We would reserve it for fast aircraft, projects needing MSP, or builds where its zero-offset behaviour justifies the extra footprint. For an ordinary mapping wing, the DLVR remains the cleaner default. Our first fixed-wing build guide covers the rest of the airframe decisions.
The Listing Detail We Would Check First
Our catalogue separates the genuine Matek DLVR-L431 from an independently manufactured UMT version. They are not the same product, and the UMT unit is not made, endorsed or supported by Matek. The genuine listing currently carries a longer-supply-lead-time warning, so confirm availability before designing around its arrival date.
FAQ
Q: Does the fastest sensor give better low-speed readings?
A: No. Maximum range and low-speed behaviour are separate characteristics. Matek specifically credits the AUAV with better still-air offset; do not infer accuracy from 400km/h alone.
Q: Should I use I2C or DroneCAN?
A: Use DroneCAN when the sensor and flight controller both support it, especially on an ArduPilot aircraft. Choose I2C for the simpler ASPD-4525 installation or when your documented hardware stack requires it.
Q: Do the kits include the pitot hardware?
A: Matek lists a pitot tube, 40cm of clear silicone tubing and the relevant JST-GH cable or cables with each of these sensor kits.