(GIS) A geographical information system is the best GIS Mapping software application for users to convert geographical data into clear and succinct visual data. It offers valuable information on land management, logistics routing, demographic analysis, engineering design, facility management, and other data gis map.
While data shows that installing GIS software leads to a lucrative ROI, startup expenditures might be fairly high. This is why we developed a list of the best free GIS tools. Here’s a list of the best free GIS software for organizations on a tight budget or simply seeking to test the waters before committing.
What is gis our best GIS Mapping software with free options is included in the list below.
They may only support one person or project but are completely free. However, scaling will frequently necessitate a complete investment.
Mapping a Map of the GIS Software Geography
SuperGIS, SAGA GIS, ArcGIS, QGIS, GRASS GIS, JUMP GIS, and more…
Unlimited number of GIS software alternatives available.
Criteria for Ranking
We did not rate GIS software based just on one or two criteria. Instead, we tested each GIS Mapping Software using a variety of criteria.
It takes into account the following:
ANALYSIS: Vector/raster tools, temporal analysis, geostatistics, network analysis, and scripting are all available.
CARTOGRAPHY: Map types, coordinate systems, labeling/annotation, 3D capabilities, map layouts/elements, animation, map automation, and symbols are all examples of cartography.
EDITING: Table manipulation, feature creation/modification, geocoding, topology correction, conflation, interoperability, metadata editing, and catalog/browser integration.
Image categorization, LiDAR integration, remote sensing tools, georeferencing, and photogrammetry are all examples of image processing.
INNOVATION: Machine learning, artificial intelligence, Internet of Things, indoor mapping, online mapping integration, and data science capabilities.
SUPPORT: Community/forums, as well as documentation
We also considered the overall user interface, performance, and frequency of faults observed when running the program.
Top 30 Best GIS Mapping Software Applications
1. Geomedia
Best GIS Mapping Software Geomedia Bar Graphs Hexagon GeoMedia has been in business for almost 40 years. However, it has just begun to deteriorate. Nonetheless, Geomedia remains an excellent piece of GIS software. When combined with ERDAS Imagine, it creates possibly the greatest remote sensing package.
PROS
- Quick inquiry and analysis
- Excellent cartography and labeling
- Imagine all-purpose mapping with numerous layouts using ERDAS remote sensing.
- Superior editing with intelligent snapping
- Mature software has a history of more than 40 years
CONS
- License levels might be perplexing.
- The small user base for problem-solving
- Files cannot be dragged and dropped into GeoMedia.
- Interoperability issues with other GIS formats
- Database connectivity might be sluggish at times.
#1 GIS software with a robust range of remote sensing tools (from ERDAS Imagine)
2. QGIS 3
QGIS 3 received 4.8 stars. QGIS 3’s DNA is infused with open source. It was genetically engineered to break the mold of commercial GIS by providing equally excellent mapping, editing, and analytic tools.
It’s not a GIS Mapping Software good choice because 3D is included in QGIS 3. However, QGIS plugins continue to allow you to examine nearly limitless possibilities.
PROS
- Dedicated volunteer group
- Innovative editing, analysis, and mapping tools Slick 3D integration
- Support and a large user base
- QGIS plugins extend their capabilities.
- 64-bit computing
- Over 900 tools in total (25 toolboxes)
CONS
- Lack of highly specialized tools
- 3D and LiDAR stability concerns Limited web mapping capabilities
- In terms of developing technology, it lags.
- OBIA image categorization
The best open source GIS software for overall functionality.
COMPARISON: 35 Differences Between ArcGIS Pro and QGIS 3 3.
3. ArcGIS Pro
Best GIS Mapping Software ArcGIS Pro software. With a ribbon interface, 64-bit processing, also 3D integration, ArcGIS Pro modernizes GIS. It’s a big redesign emphasizing speed, originality, and cartography. Even though ArcGIS Pro is a large computer with many moving components, it takes the top rank.
PROS
- 3D integration that is unified
- Excellent cartography and labeling
- True ArcGIS Online integration Contextual smart ribbon UI 64-bit processing
- Editing has been improved and simplified.
- More than 1500 geoprocessing tools (35 toolboxes)
CONS
- High license fees
- Project files are large.
- All items are lost during MXD conversion.
- ArcGIS Pro is used to assign licenses.
- A steep learning curve
GIS software is the best for analysis, charting, and editing.
4. ArcGIS Desktop
Best GIS Mapping Software ArcGIS Desktop is a cutting-edge GIS application. It lifts the bar to the next level by doing functions other GIS software cannot. Its success stems from its ability to grow. ArcGIS Desktop is a GIS powerhouse from field applications to modeling and scripting.
PROS
- Scalability for further capability
- Beautiful cartographic symbology options on a solid geoprocessing foundation
- A complete collection of editing and topological tools
- For web maps and apps, use ArcGIS Online.
CONS
- High operating and maintenance costs
- License tiers provide just minimal tools.
- Interoperability falls short
- ArcGIS Pro is being phased out.
The best non-ribbon commercial best GIS software (support until March 2026)
5. MapInfo Professional
MapInfo Professional is all about locational intelligence at its heart. And, like GeoMedia, it has seen its competitors’ market share dwindle. But don’t be duped. MapInfo Professional is still a top GIS software suite with a stronger emphasis on corporate decision-making.
PROS
- Simple operation and 64-bit processing
- Improved table management and querying
- Powerful addressing and geocoding
- Comparison mapping
- Better visualization integration
- Intelligent ribbon-based navigation
CONS
- Interoperability issues and a lack of format compatibility
- A licence is quite expensive.
- There is no cloud-based platform.
- Online web maps have limited usefulness.
- Inadequate support for remote sensing analyses
The best GIS software for business and location intelligence.
6. FME Data Inspector
The Feature Manipulation Engine (FME®) is not a complete GIS product. Instead, it wrangles and slays your data with the skill of a Jedi. It has a surprisingly active community and is quite powerful. In reality, its annual World Tour is a lot of fun. However, do not utilize FME® to create maps.
PROS
- Endless transformers make this powerful.
- It is an expert in data interoperability.
- A vibrant user base
- Complete documentation
- FME Cloud and FME Server
- Leading the way in developing technologies
CONS
- FME Data Inspector License levels and pricing have a poor traditional cartographic display.
- There are no editing or snapping tools.
- Web maps and applications have limited usefulness.
- Classification and processing of remote sensing data
- FME Software – Feature Manipulation Engine Review 7. Global Mapper
- Blue marble global mapper software
- Global Mapper is a GIS analytical “Swiss army knife.”
It’s quite simple to get started. However, Global Mapper provides an astounding amount of versatility. For example, it offers a strong display for LiDAR and elevation, all in a 64-bit program.
7. QGIS 2
Best GIS Mapping Software QGIS 2 was one of GIS’s most significant community initiatives and open source advancements. Because the community drove it, it became tremendously original and inventive.
Even though QGIS 2 is open source, it can compete with the finest. However, complete support has recently been migrated to QGIS 3.
PROS
- The QGIS GPL licence provides flexibility.
- Lovely labelling choices
- A diverse set of GIS analytic tools Excellent data interoperability
- Plugins increase functionality.
- Large user base and online assistance
CONS
- Inadequate 3D integration (only as a plugin)
- Graphical modeller is buggy
- Tools for topological errors are few.
- Little is known about metadata standards.
- Classification using LiDAR and remote sensing
- The best open source GIS software (currently unsupported for QGIS 3)
8. WhiteBox GAT
WhiteBox GAT is a rough diamond. It’s an excellent choice for terrain and hydrological analysis. The LiDAR support is incredible. However, Whitebox GAT has 360+ plugin tools. It is deserving of a better ranking. However, it is lacking in mapping, editing, and data management.
PROS
- High-quality hydrology, LiDAR, and terrain tools
- 450+ geospatial plugins and tools
- Parallel computing at high speeds
- Python scripter WhiteBox
- ArcGIS, QGIS, and WhiteBox Tools are available for extension.
CONS
- Cartography, labelling, and symbolization are limited.
- Web mapping services and base map integration
- There is no traditional editing toolbar.
- There is no catalogue for data management.
- Inability to create and modify metadata
The best open source GIS software for LiDAR, terrain, and hydrography analysis.
9. GvSIG
GIS Mapping Software GvSIG is free and good open source GIS software if you live, sleep, and breathe GIS. Its characteristics may astound you. For example, it has a 3D capabilities, field app, and a desktop version.
However, there is little documentation. Anything in English, in particular.
PROS
- Well-documented and simple user interface
- Field application on mobile
- Effective CAD tools
- The interface that is intuitive and stable
- Support for open source software
- Using NavTable to explore data
- Exciting innovations such as gvNIX and IDE
CONS
- Support from a smaller community
- Cartography and symbology from antiquity
- NASA World Wind dated 3D rendering
- Little is known about metadata standards.
- There is little support for LiDAR data.
- There is no multiplatform mobile data collecting.
- Adding data without the use of geometry icons
The best open source GIS software for combining field applications, web mapping, and desktop features. GvSIG Software Evaluation: Desktop, 3D, and Mobile GIS
10. Smallworld by GE
If you work in the utility industry, Best GIS Mapping Software GE Smallworld is for you. When GE purchased SmallWorld, it quickly became the leading GIS software for utility businesses. The major feature is its strong data model, which supports several geometrical characteristics per object.
PROS
- Utility/network-specific software
- Backups and archiving are possible with versioning.
- Objects as different forms of geometry
- Utility track record of success
- Asset management design and lifespan
- In-program help files are extensive.
CONS
- License and maintenance fees are quite costly.
- Utility management value-added
- Not very adaptable
- Unpleasant user interface
- Difficulty accessing the file system for exporting
11. Multiple Viewer
Manifold System is something that you can easily learn and adapt to. Its strengths include an easy-to-use interface, programmability, and 64-bit processing. Manifold GIS features an impressive range of tools. But without the expensive cost.
PROS
- Processes and displays information at the speed of light
- Parallel processing on the CPU and GPU
- User interface that is both stable and intuitive
- Natively 64-bit processing
- Excellent product documentation and support
CONS
- Minimalist cartographic tools for map creation
- Specialty tools are scarce.
- Inadequate sophisticated web mapping
- There is little activity in the user community.
- Although the price is low, there is still a cost.
When adding a data source, you may select the file type.
12. Maptitude
Maptitude is one of the market’s most economical one-stop shop GIS systems. While Maptitude is a low-cost, professional GIS, you may want to search elsewhere for more in-depth analysis.
PROS
- Optimization of delivery routes using routing analysis
- A good selection of themed mapping possibilities
- Simple to learn with a short learning curve
TransModeler and TransCAD are transportation modelling and design software. Excellent product documentation and support
CONS
- Inadequate higher-level analysis
- Maptitude for the Web is basic.
- Geoprocessing scope (raster and vector)
There is a scarcity of remote sensing, photogrammetry, and LiDAR tools. Commercial GIS software is the best for cost and business information.
13. TatukGIS
Best GIS Mapping Software TatukGIS is simple and comprehensive. Its standout features include cutting-edge editing, format support, and a programming environment. TatukGIS’s origins may be traced back to Tatuk Lake in British Columbia, Canada.
PROS
- Powerful data editing tools
- A robust API for customisation
- Map generation of high quality
- Straightforward and complete
- Tools for creating mobile web maps
TatukGIS Viewer and Coordinate Calculator for Free
CONS
- The interface has become obsolete.
- Although inexpensive, there is still a cost.
- Light community engagement and support
- Not as many tools as other commercial GIS software.
- A scarcity of new technology tools
The most popular commercial and cross-platform GIS for Windows, Linux, and macOS servers.
14. 3D AutoCAD Map
If you’ve already used Autodesk products, AutoCAD Map 3D has a similar appearance, making you feel at ease. AutoCAD Map, in essence, bridges the gap between CAD and GIS. You’ll receive map layouts, data management, and editing tools. You get the best of both worlds by combining CAD with GIS.
PROS
- Excellent for editing, COGO, and topology.
- Surface and LiDAR point cloud analysis tools
- Interface with a ribbon and logical organisation
- CAD/GIS integration
Produce themed maps and mapbooks. Autodesk users will appreciate this.
CONS
- Maintenance and licence fees
- Specialized analysis tools are few.
- Cartography and map types are scarce.
- The appearance and feel of map layouts are clumsy.
For individuals who are inexperienced with Autodesk, the learning curve is steep.
15. Surfer Golden Software
Surfer is a part of Golden Software. Strater, Voxler, and Grapher are included, providing a wonderful blend of 3D, analysis, and editing capabilities. However, its best feature is the ability to create professional-quality themed maps.
PROS
- The focus is on data visualisation.
- Thematic map development is versatile.
- An easy-to-use interface
- XYZ point data manipulation
- Geocoding of census-based street data
- A brief learning curve
CONS
- License fees are higher, but they are more affordable.
- specialised in particular fields
- A limited set of analysis tools
- It cannot produce online maps.
- Tools for sophisticated editing are limited.
The most popular commercial GIS software for 3D geotechnical analysis and mapping.
16. ILWIS
The decade of the 1980s is making a comeback. ILWIS is still embracing the era as part of it. However, this is a good place to look if you want remote sensing tools. 3D visualizations and stereo imagery are also available. Despite its severe need for a facelift, ILWIS is adaptable in certain markets.
PROS
- Earth system monitoring and modelling
- Image categorization based on objects
- Modeling of land change
- Time series visualisation in 2D and 3D
- Open Source and Free Software
- Tools for image categorization and remote sensing
CONS
- Documentation and instructional information are scarce.
- There are no sophisticated mapping features or layout support.
- Small community support and discussion forum are available.
- Tools for sophisticated editing are limited.
The best open source GIS software for various image processing tools.
17. SAGA GIS
Geoscience is the name of the game for SAGA GIS. You could get lost if you travel down this rabbit hole. Its documentation is so lacking that you don’t even know what input and output are. However, it has some of the most uncommon tools found in GIS software.
PROS
- Geoscience toolkits that are one-of-a-kind
- Effective for terrain and raster data
- command-line interface
- Anaglyph and 3D rendering tools
- Kriging and other geostatistics tools
- The GPL licence provides flexibility.
- Good interoperability
- User-friendliness and toughness
CONS
- Many geoscience tools lack fundamental documentation.
- Strange noise after using the tool
- Cartography features and templates are lacking.
- Data editing and alteration are restricted.
- There is no automated topological error correction.
Online web map publication is scarce. The most popular open-source GIS software for scientific and geotechnical analysis.
18. GeoDa
Best GIS Mapping Software GeoDa is an expert in statistical tools and analysis. You investigate geographical statistics while working with this open-source GIS software. It’s the ultimate spatial modelling tool, including cutting-edge geo-visualizations and geo-simulations.
PROS
- The interface and design are modern.
- Statistics specialist
- Exploration of data for statistical understanding
- Geosimulation with data visualisation
- Open source and free
- cutting-edge graphs and charts
CONS
- Traditional geoprocessing tools are lacking.
- It is not a complete GIS software package.
- Little is available for complex feature editing and snapping.
- GIS-related tools are scarce.
The best open source statistical GIS software for spatial modelling and geovisualizations.
19. Bentley Road Map
Bentley Map blends the strength of traditional GIS with the power of CAD. For example, it provides comprehensive interoperability, overlay tools, and high-quality cartographical output. It isn’t only for 2D. However, GIS analysis may also be done in 3D.
PROS
- CAD/GIS integration
- 3D viewing, analysis, and support
- Fly-throughs, as well as sunshine and shadow studies
- Good interoperability
CONS
- GIS analysis tools are limited.
- The licence is expensive.
- Inadequate labelling and annotating
- Inadequate KMZ/KML support
20. TerrSet IDRISI
Clark Labs’ IDRISI primarily uses raster analysis and image processing software focusing on 2D/3D infrastructure. It, for example, has over 300 analysis tools. However, IDRISI also focuses on Earth modelling. It includes modules for land change, biodiversity modelling, and climate change, among others.
PROS
- Earth system monitoring and modelling
- Land change modelling and OBIA categorization
- Time series visualisation in 2D and 3D
- 300+ analytical apps, with a focus on raster-based tools
CONS
- There is little documentation and support for helping subjects.
- Inactive forum and community
- Inadequate cartography and map layout support
- Limited functionality and scope
The best GIS software for Earth modelling and land change analysis.
21. GIS TNT
TNTview, TNTedit, TNTmips, and TNTscript are all part of the MicroImages GIS software suite. TNTview is an open viewer at its most basic. Each licensing level gives more features as you go through the tiers. Overall, it’s a good choice for general mapping, analysis, and editing.
PROS
- Surface modelling and terrain analysis
- Vector, geodatabase, CAD, LIDAR, and TIN support
- Workflow automation and customisation
- Image processing tools
CONS
- Although inexpensive, there is a cost connected with it.
- out-of-date user interface
- Little in terms of updates and versions
There is a lack of documentation and a user support community. GIS software is the best for basic GIS editing, mapping, and analysis.
22. MapWindow
MapWindow is a free and open-source application. While it meets 90% of GIS users’ needs, it specializes in hydrology. It still struggles with several fundamentals. However, it is a commendable voluntary effort.
PROS
- Expert in hydrology analysis
- Open source and free
- Documentation for API and MW5
- Architecture for extensible plugins
CONS
- There is a lack of community and users.
- Not as thoroughly supported.
Other aspects of GIS and remote sensing are lacking. HydroDesktop is the best open-source GIS software for hydrological analysis.
23. uDig
Volunteers develop this open-source desktop program all around the world. The majority of uDig’s focus is on database browsing and editing. Even now, updates are still coming in. However, the interface only needs a fresh coat of paint.
PROS
- Excellent documentation
- Open source and free software
- Biodiversity and forest management are her areas of expertise.
CONS
- Releases are seldom.
- Cartography and symbolization have limited utility.
- A small and inactive user base
The best open source GIS software for biodiversity and forest management tools.
24. GIS OpenJUMP
You have two tickets to the OpenJump performance.
Would you go?
In summary, Jump GIS excels at the fundamentals. It started as a data conflation tool. Then it developed into a little open source project. Despite its limited capabilities, developers support to back the project.
PROS
- Database and WMS connection
- Wikimedia Commons documentation
- GPS compatibility and support
- Sextante and other plugins
CONS
- out-of-date user interface
- There is little-to-no raster functionality.
- Updates on its progress are scarce.
- Cartography possibilities are limited.
- 3D visualization and support
- There are just a few plugins.
25. FalconView
FalconView is a flight simulator; therefore, comparing it to this list of GIS software is unfair. If you need to do fly-throughs, Georgia Tech designed it for that. Otherwise, 3D characteristics such as LiDAR and elevation can be rendered.
PROS
- Fly-through flight simulator
- It is compatible with KMZ, MrSID, and LiDAR.
- WMS capabilities and interoperability
- Support for aviation and nautical charts
CONS
- Specifically for flying missions
- There is no advanced geographical analysis.
- Mapping and cartography are limited.
- Inadequate data editing and management
The most popular open source GIS software for flight simulation and geographical data integration.
26. OrbisGIS
OrbisGIS is currently in development. It is now available as a multi-platform open-source GIS software suite. OrbisGIS is specifically built by and for researchers.
PROS
- They are mostly used for research on Linux, Windows, and Mac OS.
- Compliant with the OGC
CONS
- Cartographic and analytical tools are scarce.
- There is no open forum or community for debate.
- As a newbie, the best open source GIS software is 30.
27. GIS Diva
Diva GIS is a simple and lightweight open-source GIS software suite. Biologists use it to map the spread of biological richness and diversity. It serves its purpose. However, there isn’t much here in terms of mapping and usefulness.
PROS
- Biology-specific software
- Data accessibility
- Open source and lightweight
CONS
- out-of-date user interface
There isn’t much provided for mapping and functioning. There is no Diva GIS community. The most popular open-source GIS program for biology and data packing.
Your choice of GIS software is crucial if you work in the geospatial business. We’ve created a map of the GIS software landscape for you. There are 30 options available to you.
28. Cadcorp
Cadcorp combines GIS and CAD into a single application. It includes the comprehensive capability for mapping and styling almost faultlessly. It has many new features, such as a ribbon interface, interoperability, and development tools. However, when combined with server and cloud tools, the lesser-known Cadcorp shines on several levels.
PROS
- Build Cadcorp SIS online maps with an easy-to-use ribbon interface.
- Data may be hosted and served on the cloud.
- Deloy web applications may be customized using server developer tools.
- Cadcorp SIS Express is a read-only application that is completely free to use.
CONS
- a lack of community forum support
- Small remote sensing tools
- A new product with little background knowledge
- A CAD/GIS expert who falls short in other areas
29. GRASS GIS 3D
GRASS GIS 3D received 3.9 stars. GRASS GIS software is one of those suites that allow you to process till the sun goes down. It’s a loaded gun with advanced tools. GRASS GIS is so strong that you can use it as a standalone toolbox in QGIS. However, its clumsy interface and obstinate map projection constraints hold it back.
PROS
- Excellent geoprocessing with around 350 modules
- Network analysis and LiDAR
- Documentation and lessons are extensive.
- Open source and free
- Sophisticated satellite imagery tools
- Rendering and modification in 3D raster
- Well-documented
- Tools for raster, vector, images, and temporal analysis
CONS
- Unusual toolbar placement and clumsy user interface
- Creating startup predictions
- A steep learning curve is required to get started.
- Unsuitable for cartography and mapping. Background command-line window
Coordinate systems in different locales are handled. The best open source GIS software for cutting-edge geoprocessing GIS Mapping tools.
What did you decide?
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