Virtual RTK vs True RTK

So What’s the Difference?

Virtual RTK and True RTK represent two different approaches to RTK (Real-Time Kinematic) technology which provide different performance, cost characteristics and coverage. While they both deliver highly precise positioning solutions, the method by which they achieve this differs significantly. Let’s dive deeper into each and explore their distinctions.

True RTK: High Precision from Physical Base Stations

True RTK is a service that delivers correction data from a physical, ground-based RTK network. Each base station in this network is a real, fixed location that generates correction data for any device within close proximity. The level of precision TrueRTK offers is exceptional, providing accuracy of 1-3 cm horizontally and vertically within a radius of up to 50 km from a base station, 75km with high-end receivers.. This level of accuracy is essential for applications like autonomous vehicle mapping, drones, and other systems that require pinpoint precision in real-time.

Point One Navigation operates the world’s largest independent RTK network, with close to 2,000 base stations and counting. This extensive infrastructure ensures robust coverage and reliability. The network operates in a “Network RTK” configuration, meaning devices are not limited to just one base station. If the device is moving, it seamlessly switches to the nearest base station without losing accuracy, ensuring continuous, high-precision positioning.

Virtual RTK: Wide Availability Through Virtual Base Stations

Virtual RTK, on the other hand, uses a software-driven approach, employing a system known as VRS (Virtual Reference Station). In this system, instead of relying on a physical base station in proximity, VirtualRTK creates a virtual base station dynamically, based on the device’s reported location. Sophisticated mathematical models are used to calculate corrections based upon the desired VRS location, resulting in precision better than 6 cm horizontally, 10 cm vertically. As a device moves, the software recalculates and establishes a new virtual base station location when a distance threshold is reached, ensuring the correction remains highly accurate. This dynamic setup allows VirtualRTK to maintain its high level of performance even as the device transitions across large distances.

One of the significant advantages of VirtualRTK is that it doesn’t require the device to be near a physical base station. As long as the device is located within a region where the mathematical model has been developed—such as the Contiguous US or EU—it can receive corrections, making it highly versatile.

Note that while Virtual RTK does not require a user to be near a physical base station, one of the key inputs into the mathematical models IS input from a network of physical stations. The more density in the network, the more refined the models can be. The size and density of Point One’s network enable us to build the most precise model of any provider.

While the precision may not quite match TrueRTK, VirtualRTK provides a cost-effective solution for applications where 6 cm horizontal accuracy is sufficient, and it covers vast geographical areas. It’s particularly suited for devices that move over large distances or operate in areas where physical base station coverage does not exist or  is not feasible. 

Performance Characteristics: TrueRTK vs. VirtualRTK

Below is a summary of the key metrics for both services, helping you determine which solution best meets your needs:

Choosing the Right RTK Solution for Your Needs

Both True RTK and Virtual RTK offer significant advantages depending on your requirements. True RTK is the go-to choice for applications demanding extreme precision in reasonable proximity to a physical base station, while Virtual RTK provides a cost-effective, high-performance solution for wider geographical coverage and applications where lower precision is acceptable.

For an in-depth exploration of the architecture and performance behind Point One’s VirtualRTK service, we recommend reading our article: “Architecture and Performance of Point One’s VirtualRTK Service.” This resource also delves into the VRS technique, which allows any RTK-enabled device to consume VirtualRTK without additional software or hardware, ensuring seamless adoption.