There are a number of different lidar companies out there, each with their own strengths and weaknesses. It really depends on your specific needs as to which one is the best for you.
Here are a few of the more popular lidar companies:
VELODYNE
Velodyne is one of the leading manufacturers of lidar systems, and their products are used in a variety of applications, from autonomous vehicles to 3D mapping. Velodyne's lidar systems are known for their high accuracy and reliability.
Products:
Velodyne HDL-64E S2: A high-performance, 64-channel lidar system that offers a field of view of 360 degrees and a range of up to 200 meters.
Velodyne Puck: A small, lightweight, and affordable lidar system that is well-suited for use in drones and other small unmanned vehicles.
LIDARUSA
LidarUSA is another popular manufacturer of lidar systems. They offer a wide range of products for both industrial and consumer applications.
Products:
LidarUSA Pharos: A high-end lidar system that offers a range of up to 2 kilometers and a field of view of 360 degrees.
LidarUSA AVIA: A lower-cost alternative to the Pharos that offers a range of up to 500 meters and a field of view of 180 degrees.
Ouster
Ouster is a newer company that is quickly making a name for itself in the lidar industry. They offer a unique product that combines lidar and radar into one sensor, which they claim offers superior performance to traditional lidar systems.
Products:
Ouster OS0: A lidar/radar sensor that offers a range of up to 100 meters and a field of view of 360 degrees.
Ouster OS1: A higher-end lidar/radar sensor that offers a range of up to 200 meters and a field of view of 360 degrees.