We can help you choose the best Sokkia total station at the best budgets for your use. Read more about Sokka and the history of the product
Sokkia Total Station - Brief History
Sokkia has long been a leader in precision measurement. It is known for combining Japanese engineering quality with durability for outdoor use. Since introducing its first electronic total stations in the 1970s, which combined electronic distance measurement (EDM) with traditional theodolites, Sokkia has consistently improved total station capabilities at all levels: entry-level, mid-range, and high-end robotic solutions. You can always learn more about them and Yes, Sokkia is part of Topcon Corporation. Topcon acquired Sokkia in 2008, but Sokkia continues to operate as a separate brand within the Topcon group.
From early innovations in EDM to today’s hybrid positioning and automated workflows, Sokkia’s solutions have changed to meet the growing needs of civil engineering, construction, mining, infrastructure, and geospatial data collection.
The Sokkia iM-50 Series is a smart entry point for professionals and organizations seeking dependable performance without overcommitting on cost. Despite its classification as an entry-level instrument, it offers substantial technical features that outperform many competitors in its class:
- EDM Performance: Measures up to 4,000 m with a single prism and 500 m reflectorless, with 2 mm + 2 ppm accuracy.
- Angle Measurement: Available in both 2″ and 5″ accuracy versions, ideal for general site layout and topographic survey.
- Dual-Axis Compensation: Stabilizes measurements on sloped or uneven terrain by correcting for tilt in both axes.
- Onboard Software: Features MAGNET Field support for intuitive interface, layout tools, and data collection efficiency.
- Connectivity & Storage: Built-in Bluetooth® Class 1 and 50,000-point internal memory, SD card slot for scalable data storage.
- Field Durability: IP66-certified water/dust resistance and a compact, lightweight body (5.3 kg including battery), ideal for rugged conditions.
This series is highly recommended for entry-level surveyors, site engineers, and contractors needing accurate stakeout, leveling, and general layout tools.
Sokkia Im52 Total station is the most popular of these series and surveyors use it for standard survey works.
Targeting professionals involved in more complex surveying tasks, the iM-100 Series takes functionality and robustness a step further:
- Extended Reflectorless EDM: Up to 800 m with pinpoint laser technology, 5,000 m with a single prism.
- High Accuracy: Angular accuracy of 2″ or 5″, EDM accuracy of 1.5 mm + 2 ppm for superior precision.
- Long Battery Life: Operates for up to 28 hours on a single battery (depending on usage), reducing field downtime.
- Advanced Data Collection: Supports USB and SD card storage, and compatible with Sokkia’s MAGNET software for cloud syncing and team collaboration.
- Smart Features: Laser pointer, plummet, trigger key, and programmable keys improve speed and safety on the field.
The iM-100 is a go-to for civil works, topographic survey, rail, and energy projects—balancing high performance with affordability.
Top-Level Total Stations: Cutting-Edge Robotic Precision – iX Series
The Sokkia iX Series represents the pinnacle of total station technology, bringing robotic efficiency and intelligent automation to modern surveying practices:
- Ultrasonic Motors: Delivers the industry’s fastest and most silent turning speed (85°/sec), ideal for high-efficiency stakeouts and remote-controlled operations.
- Advanced Prism Tracking: Maintains lock even in dynamic or obstructed environments, improving measurement reliability during high-activity projects.
- Hybrid Positioning Technology: Seamlessly integrates GNSS and optical positioning, allowing uninterrupted work when line-of-sight is temporarily lost.
- Auto-Tracking & Auto-Collimation: Supports full automation of stakeout, topography, and monitoring workflows with sub-millimeter accuracy.
- Cloud-Connected: Compatible with MAGNET Enterprise for real-time field-to-office integration and project synchronization.
Perfect for large infrastructure builds, deformation monitoring, tunneling, smart cities, and mega construction projects, the iX Series offers future-ready solutions that reduce manpower, increase productivity, and ensure millimetric precision.
Why Sokkia Stands Out
Unmatched Reliability: Japanese-manufactured components and meticulous quality control ensure long-term durability.
Superior EDM: High-speed, high-accuracy EDM with consistent performance even in adverse weather conditions.
Ecosystem Integration: Native compatibility with MAGNET, Autodesk, and other CAD/GIS platforms.
- Scalability: Whether scaling up from manual to robotic stations or integrating GNSS workflows, Sokkia systems grow with your needs.
Sokkia offers a complete ecosystem of total stations that serve every stage of a surveyor’s professional journey—from foundational site layout to complex, high-stakes engineering work. By bridging affordability with innovation and ruggedness with precision, Sokkia remains a leading force in modern geospatial technology.