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Visitor
September 4, 2026
Question

Best ST ToF Sensor for Daylight Performance and Long Detection Range

  • September 4, 2026
  • 2 replies
  • 9 views

Hello,

I understand that ToF sensors inherently have limited performance under daylight conditions. However, I would like to know which ST ToF sensor family currently offers the best performance in daylight, regardless of whether it is a single-point or multi-zone sensor.

The VL53L9 series looks very promising for our application, but unfortunately, its cost is above our target budget. Therefore, I am looking for a more cost-effective alternative that still provides good performance under daylight conditions.

A wider FOV would be preferable for our application.

Would it be reasonable to select a sensor based primarily on its maximum specified detection range? If so, the VL53L1 series seems to be a good candidate. However, I am not sure whether the maximum specified range is the best parameter to use when comparing sensors for real-world daylight performance.

I also assume that a wider FOV reduces the number of photons received per unit area, which could potentially reduce the sensor's performance and maximum range. Is this assumption correct?

In short, I would appreciate your recommendation for the best-value ST ToF sensor series for daylight performance, preferably with a wide FOV and the longest reliable detection range possible, while staying below the cost of the VL53L9 series.

Thank you.

2 replies

Andrew Neil
Super User
September 4, 2026

What do you consider “long” range here ?

 

unfortunately, its cost is above our target budget

So what is your target budget ?

A complex system that works is invariably found to have evolved from a simple system that worked.A complex system designed from scratch never works and cannot be patched up to make it work.
stbayramAuthor
Visitor
September 4, 2026

I think a detection range of 1.5–2 meters can be considered a reasonable long-range target under direct sunlight.

Regarding the budget, we can go up to approximately $10 per unit.