How Much Does a Total Station Cost? (New & Used, Robotic & Manual)

Whether you’re starting a new survey company, replacing aging gear, or just exploring an upgrade, everyone has the same equipment-related question: What’s it gonna cost?

Total stations can vary wildly in price, and for good reason. There’s everything from basic manual (mechanical) models that need two people to operate, all the way up to high-end robotic total stations that track targets, log data, and do half the work for you.

And it’s not just about the tech. There are considerations around new vs. used, accuracy specs, included accessories, data collectors, and more. Collectively, the unique characteristics of any given total station can significantly influence the price.

In this guide, we’ll break down what you can expect to pay for a total station, whether you're seeking a solid used model or a brand-new robotic powerhouse. Have questions after reading? Where to help — just contact us.

Let’s get into it.

What Is a Total Station?

A total station is one of the most essential tools in modern surveying — it combines an electronic theodolite (for measuring angles), an electronic distance meter (EDM), and a microprocessor to record data. In simplest terms, a total station measures angles, distances, and elevation to map out points on the planet with extreme accuracy.

While not all total stations are created equal, there are two main types you’ll come across:

1. Non-Robotic (Mechanical or Manual) Total Stations: These are the classic total stations — simple, reliable, and often more affordable. They require a two-person crew: one person to aim the instrument, and another to hold the prism. It’s a proven method that still gets the job done on construction sites and basic boundary surveys.
2. Robotic Total Stations: Robotic models take things up a notch. They allow for single-operator control, using motorized tracking and remote communication with the data collector. The station can automatically follow the prism, making it ideal for large jobs, tight schedules, or crews that want to maximize efficiency with fewer people.

In short, both types measure the same things — but robotic stations do it faster, with fewer hands, and more automation. That extra tech comes with a higher price tag. But for many surveyors, it pays for itself in saved time and labor.

Here’s a look at what you can expect cost-wise.

New Total Station Pricing

Buying a brand-new total station means you’re getting the latest tech, full warranty coverage, and top-tier reliability right out of the box. That said, depending on whether you opt for a manual or robotic model, the price difference can be substantial. Here's how it breaks down:

Non-Robotic Total Stations (Mechanical)

If you’re looking for a straightforward, reliable unit that gets the job done without the bells and whistles, a non-robotic total station is your lane. These are ideal for small crews, layout work, or as backup equipment in a larger fleet.

• Typical Price Range: $6,900–$7,000
• Common Models: Trimble C3, Trimble C5
• Use Cases: Construction layout, boundary surveys, educational training, backup for robotic units

They’re simple, durable, and built to last — perfect for teams that don’t need automation but still want precision.

Robotic Total Stations

On the higher end of the spectrum are robotic total stations. They’re built for serious performance and efficiency. These systems allow a single operator to control the station remotely, using motorized tracking and wireless communication — no second crew member needed.

• Typical Price Range: $20,000–$36,000+
• Popular Models: Trimble S5, S7, RTS873, VX series
• Premium Features: Trimble Vision (real-time imagery), FineLock (precise prism tracking in congested areas), built-in scanning capabilities, high angular accuracy (1”–3”)
• Use Cases: High-end construction, civil engineering, BIM workflows, utility mapping, large-scale topographic work

For firms that prioritize speed, solo operation, and advanced data capture, robotic stations are the industry gold standard — and priced accordingly.

Used Total Station Pricing

For surveyors looking to stretch their budgets without compromising performance, the used market is where value lives. When bought from a reputable seller, a used total station (mechanical or robotic) can deliver years of reliable service at a fraction of the cost of new. Here’s what you can expect to pay:

Used Non-Robotic Total Stations

Used mechanical total stations are a great fit for teams that need reliable instruments for basic survey work, construction layout, or as backup units. They’re affordable, often come freshly calibrated, and still have plenty of field life left in them.

• Typical Price Range: $2,500–$6,500
• Sweet Spot for Quality Units: $3,500–$5,000
• Popular Models: LEICA TS, Topcon ES series

When buying, look for recent calibration or certification. Also, check for tripods, prisms, and cases included — and always pay attention to angular accuracy (2”–5”). You should also confirm that a battery and charger are included (and in good condition) before buying.

A well-maintained LEICA TS or Topcon ES can easily perform like new if properly serviced and packaged with the right accessories.

Used Robotic Total Stations

Robotic total stations are where you’ll see the biggest price drop in the used market compared to new — often saving $8K–$15K. Many come as full kits with data collectors, prisms, and all the cables you need to get right to work.

• Typical Price Range: $10,000–$25,000
• Sweet Spot for Complete Kits: $12,000–$14,000
• Common Models: Trimble S6 3” DR+, Trimble VX 1”, Trimble S5 1”

A used robotic total station kit should include an MT1000 prism (or equivalent), a TSC3 or TSC7 data collector, and controller software licenses (Access, Siteworks, etc.). A used robotic total station should also be clean, calibrated, and in field-ready condition.

Buying used is especially smart if you’re growing your crew or outfitting multiple teams — just make sure you’re buying from a seller that backs their gear with solid testing and support (shameless plug: that’s us).

What Affects the Price?

Whether you’re shopping for new or used, there’s more to total station pricing than just the brand name and model number. The final price tag is influenced by a mix of technical specs, included gear, and even the year it was made. Here’s a closer look at what really moves the needle:

1. Age & Firmware

Older models tend to cost less, but that discount can come at the expense of compatibility or performance. If the firmware is out of date or unsupported, you might have trouble pairing it with newer data collectors or software. Always check the year of manufacture and firmware version, especially on used gear.

2. Calibration & Certification

A freshly calibrated unit, ideally accompanied by documentation to verify its calibration, adds significant value. Calibration ensures your gear is field-ready and accurate, and can add $300–$600 in resale value. Bonus points if it comes from a seller with a known track record of in-house testing and certification.

3. Data Collector Included

Having a TSC3, TSC5, or TSC7 bundled with your total station can significantly raise the price, but also the value. These rugged controllers are not cheap, and purchasing them separately can cost $2,000–$5,000+. A kit that includes one, especially with licensed software (like Trimble Access or Siteworks), is usually a better deal long-term.

4. Prism Type

Don’t overlook the prism — it’s a key part of your setup. The MT1000 active tracking prism is more expensive, but it allows for robotic tracking and enhanced range. In contrast, passive prisms are cheaper but limit your system’s automation capabilities. If you’re buying a robotic total station, you want an MT1000 in the box.

5. Precision Rating (Angular Accuracy)

Survey-grade total stations are rated by their angular accuracy as measured in arcseconds. The lower the number, the more precise the instrument (and the more it costs). Here are the most common ratings:

• 1” precision = high-end, scanning, and monitoring work
• 2”–3” precision = ideal for most construction and survey jobs
• 5” precision = budget-friendly, good for layout and general use

Just remember: Don’t overpay for precision you don’t actually need.

6. Brand Matters

Trimble commands a premium in the total station world. You’re paying for global support, trusted performance, and compatibility with the rest of the Trimble ecosystem. But Topcon, Leica, and Sokkia often offer excellent value, especially in the used market. For some buyers, the lower price tag with similar specs is worth the trade-off.

Bottom line? Pricing isn’t just about what model you’re buying — it’s about what comes with it, how it’s been treated, and how it fits into your workflow. Smart buyers know how to evaluate more than just the sticker.

Should You Buy New or Used?

When it comes to purchasing a total station, one of the most significant decisions you’ll make is whether to opt for new or used. There’s no wrong answer — it really depends on your needs, your crew, and your budget.

Buying used can be a smart, cost-effective way to get into quality equipment without breaking the bank. It’s especially appealing if you’re building out a fleet, outfitting a second crew, or looking for a solid backup unit. The money you save on a used total station can often go straight into accessories like data collectors, tripods, or software, giving you more flexibility overall. That said, you’ll want to make sure you’re buying from a seller that tests and calibrates every unit before it ships. That’s where trusted sellers like Munsoned become invaluable — everything is field-ready and vetted, not a gamble.

On the other hand, buying new gives you peace of mind in a different way. You’re getting full factory warranty, the latest firmware, and access to tech support from the manufacturer. For firms that need the newest features, or are working on high-spec or government jobs, that peace of mind can be worth the higher upfront cost.

Ultimately, it comes down to how you plan to use the gear. If you’re just getting started or need to stretch your budget further, used is often the smarter move. If you’re running big jobs that rely on cutting-edge features and tight tolerances, going new might be a better investment.

Where to Buy a Total Station

Once you’ve figured out what kind of total station you need, the next question is where to actually buy one.

If you’re shopping used, eBay is one of the most active marketplaces. You’ll find everything from bare units to full kits, often at competitive prices. But it’s also a bit of a Wild West: some listings are great deals, others come with unknown histories, missing accessories, or uncalibrated equipment. (Some equipment’s been flat-out stolen, which creates additional issues.) That’s why it pays to buy from sellers who specialize in survey gear and know how to test and support what they sell.

For brand-new total stations, your best bet is to go through authorized resellers. These dealers are certified by the manufacturer and can offer you the full package — warranty, tech support, training, and sometimes even financing options. Just keep in mind that some authorized dealers are restricted by territory and pricing rules, so flexibility may be limited.

And then there’s Munsoned. If you’re looking for a reliable, field-ready used total station, we specialize in quality-tested, certified equipment that’s ready to go right out of the box. We’ve done the hard work to make sure everything is calibrated, complete, and accurately represented, so you don’t get burned by mystery gear with unknown mileage.

The bottom line is this: you’ve got options. Just make sure you know who you’re buying from, because with survey equipment, what you don’t know can cost you.

Final Survey: What’s the Right Total Station for You?

Total stations come in all shapes, sizes, and price points — and now you’ve got a solid idea of what to expect. Whether you’re going for a non-robotic model in the $3,500–$7,000 range, or stepping up to a robotic setup priced anywhere from $12,000 to over $35,000, there’s a unit out there that fits your workflow and your budget.

The key is knowing what you actually need — and making sure you're getting gear that's calibrated, complete, and ready to work. That’s exactly what we do at Munsoned. We’ve helped hundreds of surveyors and contractors find the right equipment for the job, whether it’s a simple mechanical unit or a fully loaded robotic kit with all the extras.

Looking for a specific model or need help building a setup that fits your crew? Reach out anytime, or browse our current inventory to get started.