Specifications
Part NumberMAX-M10S
Manufactureru-blox
GNSS Platformu-blox M10
Concurrent GNSS4 systems: GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, BeiDou
Position Accuracy (CEP)1.5 m (open sky, autonomous)
Maximum Update Rate10 Hz concurrent
Navigation Sensitivity-167 dBm
Tracking Current25 mA continuous @ 3.0V
PackageLCC-18 (9.7 × 10.1 × 2.5 mm)
PCB Footprint~50% smaller area than NEO-M10N (LCC-24)
Supply Voltage2.7 V – 3.6 V
Operating Temperature−40°C to +85°C
Supply Voltage (VCC)2.7 V – 3.6 V
Backup Voltage (V_BCKP)1.65 V – 3.6 V
Tracking Current (4 GNSS)25 mA typical @ 3.0V, 1 Hz
Acquisition Current30 mA typical
Power Save Mode (PSM)< 5 mA average (1 Hz update)
Sleep/NOT_RTC Mode< 20 µA
Backup Mode Current< 15 µA
Hot Start TTFF1 s typical
Cold Start TTFF24 s typical (open sky)
I/O Voltage (VCC_IO)1.8 V or 3.3 V selectable
Primary InterfaceUART (configurable baud rate up to 921600)
Secondary InterfaceI²C
Protocolu-blox UBX binary, NMEA 0183 v4.11
Default Baud Rate38400 (factory), 115200 recommended
Time Pulse OutputConfigurable 0.25 Hz – 10 MHz
GeofencingBuilt-in circular geofence engine
Active Antenna SupervisorShort circuit and open circuit detection
Antenna TypePassive or active antenna support with LNA
Pins18-pin LCC (VCC, V_BCKP, VCC_IO, GND, TXD, RXD, SDA, SCL, TIMEPULSE, EXTINT, RESET_N, RF_IN, GND, Reserved)
Part NumberMAX-M10S
Orderable Qty1 pcs – 10,000+ pcs
Price (1–9 pcs)Contact for quote
Price (10–99 pcs)Contact for quote
Price (100–499 pcs)Contact for quote
Price (500+ pcs)Best pricing available
Lead Time (stock)3–7 business days
PackagingTape & Reel (T&R)
RoHS CompliantYes (Pb-free)

Please confirm exact parameters with manufacturer datasheet.

Product Description

The MAX-M10S is the most compact GNSS receiver in the u-blox M10 family, delivering full 4-constellation concurrent reception (GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, BeiDou) in a miniature LCC-18 package measuring just 9.7 × 10.1 mm. Its PCB footprint is approximately 50% smaller than the NEO-M10N, making it the go-to choice for weight-conscious FPV drone builders who need reliable GPS without the bulk of standard LCC-24 modules.

Despite its compact size, the MAX-M10S retains all the core performance characteristics of the M10 platform: 1.5m CEP accuracy, -167 dBm navigation sensitivity, and 10 Hz concurrent update rate with a tracking current of only 25 mA. This combination of small footprint and full performance makes it ideal for sub-250g FPV drones where every gram matters, as well as for compact autopilot designs where board space is at a premium.

The module is fully supported by Betaflight GPS rescue mode and INAV navigation firmware, providing a critical safety net for long-range FPV flights. When activated, the GPS rescue feature uses the MAX-M10S position and altitude data to autonomously fly the drone back to the home point — an invaluable feature when video link is lost or the pilot becomes disoriented. For INAV users, the module enables full waypoint navigation, return-to-home, and position hold functionality.

Key Features

  • Smallest u-blox M10 GNSS — LCC-18 package, 50% smaller than NEO form factor
  • Concurrent 4 GNSS reception with 1.5m CEP autonomous accuracy
  • 10 Hz update rate with 25 mA continuous tracking power consumption
  • -167 dBm navigation sensitivity for reliable lock in challenging conditions
  • UART and I²C interfaces for flexible flight controller integration
  • Betaflight GPS rescue and INAV navigation firmware support
  • Active antenna supervisor with LNA for improved signal reception
  • Ideal for micro/racing drones, whoop builds, and compact autopilots
Frequently Asked Questions
How does MAX-M10S size compare to NEO-M10N?
The MAX-M10S uses an LCC-18 package measuring 9.7 × 10.1 mm (98 mm² PCB area), compared to the NEO-M10N's LCC-24 at 12.2 × 16.0 mm (195 mm²). This represents roughly a 50% reduction in occupied board space. Despite the size difference, both modules share the same u-blox M10 GNSS engine and deliver identical performance specifications. The MAX-M10S achieves its smaller footprint by reducing the number of I/O pins (18 vs 24), removing SPI connectivity while retaining UART and I²C interfaces.
Can I use MAX-M10S for Betaflight GPS rescue?
Yes, the MAX-M10S is fully supported by Betaflight 4.3+ GPS rescue mode. Connect the module via UART (TX to FC RX, RX to FC TX), configure the UART port as GPS in Betaflight Configurator, and set GPS_UBLOX protocol. Enable GPS rescue in the Failsafe tab with appropriate altitude, throttle, and climb settings. The module's fast 10 Hz update rate and -167 dBm sensitivity ensure reliable position data even during rescue activation at the edge of video range.
How difficult is soldering the LCC-18 package and do I need an external LNA?
The LCC-18 package requires moderate SMD soldering skills with a hot air station or reflow oven. Hand-soldering with a fine-tip iron is possible for prototyping but requires careful technique due to the 1.1 mm pad pitch. For production, standard lead-free reflow profiles work well. The MAX-M10S includes an internal SAW filter and LNA, so an external LNA is not strictly required for most applications. However, adding an external active antenna with a higher-gain LNA can improve cold start TTFF and signal acquisition in challenging environments such as dense urban areas or under heavy tree canopy.

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UAV Applications
Sub-250g FPV GPS Rescue
Ideal for ultralight FPV builds where the MAX-M10S compact design saves weight while providing Betaflight GPS rescue capability for safety.
Whoop / Micro GPS Builds
Perfect for tiny whoop and 2-inch micro quad applications. The LCC-18 footprint fits on compact AIO flight controller boards with GPS pad breakout.
INAV Navigation System
Fully compatible with INAV fixed-wing and multirotor navigation firmware. Enables waypoint missions, RTH, and autonomous loitering.
Compact Autopilot GNSS
Serves as GNSS receiver for miniature ArduPilot or PX4 autopilot boards where board area constraints prevent using standard NEO modules.
Similar Products (GPS Modules)
Alternative / Drop-in Parts
Related Components (Used Together)
Sourcing Notes

UAVCHIP sources MAX-M10S modules through authorized u-blox distribution channels with full traceability and lot code verification. We stock the MAX-M10S-0-00 variant (firmware ROM0.19 and above) validated for UAV applications. Each shipment includes ESD-safe moisture-barrier packaging compliant with MSL Level 3 handling requirements. For high-volume drone production, we offer scheduled deliveries and buffer stock programs to align with your manufacturing schedule. Our quality team performs incoming inspection on every batch including visual inspection of LCC pads and verification of date codes against u-blox production databases. Contact us for current stock levels and volume pricing.

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