Analytics & Data·Standings

GIS and Mapping Software

GIS and mapping software helps people work with maps and location-based information; the signal score and the platforms a tool supports are key points to compare.

Use the API, open-source and free-tier marks to check how a tool may fit your work. A free plan and a free trial are different, so check the individual product details.

  • 14 platforms
  • 6 with a free tier
  • Checked 23 Oct 2026
  1. 1
    MS
    Mapbox Studiomapbox.com

    A web mapping tool for managing location data and creating maps, with a free plan.

    6.6 APIOpenFree Free tier
  2. 2
    Q
    QGISqgis.org

    A free GIS for creating, editing, analyzing, and publishing maps on desktop and mobile systems.

    6.5 APIOpenFree Free tier
  3. 3
    GG
    GRASS GISgrass.osgeo.org

    A free GIS for raster, vector, terrain, hydrology, and imagery work on major desktop systems.

    6.4 APIOpenFree Free tier
  4. 4
    SG
    SAGA GISsaga-gis.sourceforge.io

    A free GIS for geodata processing, with tools for terrain, climate, and hydrology analysis.

    6.1 APIOpenFree Free tier
  5. 5
    GM
    Global Mapperbluemarblegeo.com

    A desktop GIS for data processing, spatial analysis, and mapping; from $599 per user yearly.

    5.9 APIOpenFree From $599/yr
  6. 6
    MG
    Manifold GIS (Release 9)manifold.net

    A Windows GIS for spatial analysis, data conversion, and connections to databases and web map services.

    5.5 APIOpenFree $145 one-time
  7. 7
    C
    CARTOcarto.com

    A cloud GIS for maps, geospatial workflows, and AI agents; pricing is available on request.

    5.3 APIOpenFree —
  8. 8
    G
    GeoDageodacenter.github.io

    A free GIS for spatial analysis on Windows, macOS, and Linux.

    5.1 APIOpenFree Free tier
  9. 9
    AH
    ArcGIS Hubesri.com

    ArcGIS Hub is a cloud-based community engagement platform for sharing trusted, curated content and collaborating with communities.

    4.9 APIOpenFree —
  10. 10
    I
    ILWIS52°North

    A free GIS software package.

    4.9 APIOpenFree Free tier
  11. 11
    MP
    MapInfo Proprecisely.com

    A Windows desktop GIS with advanced spatial analysis and web mapping; pricing is available on request.

    4.1 APIOpenFree —
  12. 12
    AP
    3.8 APIOpenFree —
  13. 13
    G
    GeoMediaHexagon

    A Windows GIS for working with geospatial information.

    3.8 APIOpenFree —
  14. 14
    HM
    Hexagon M.App EnterpriseHexagon

    An enterprise geospatial application from Hexagon.

    3.8 APIOpenFree —

Places #1, #2, #3, #4, #5 on this board are open to sponsors. Take #1 · Other ways to advertise

How to choose

Which platforms does it need to run on?

Choose a tool that supports the operating systems or hosting setup you use. Check whether it runs on Windows, macOS, Linux, the web or a self-hosted setup before deciding.

If you need to connect through an API, look for the API mark and confirm the available access fits your needs.

Can I use GIS software for free?

Yes. Some tools have a free plan, including GeoDa, GRASS GIS and ILWIS. A free trial is a separate option and may have a time limit.

Check the product's pricing details before choosing. CARTO lists pricing on request and a 14-day trial; Global Mapper lists a 14-day trial and a price from $599 per user per year.

How do I check whether I can change the source code?

Check the tool's license for permission to inspect or change its source code. A free plan does not by itself mean that software is open source.

Use the open-source mark as a starting point, then read the license terms for the product you are considering.

What should I check before starting a free trial?

Check the trial length and any pricing terms before you begin. CARTO and Global Mapper list 14-day trials; MapInfo Pro lists a 30-day trial.

Questions

What is the difference between a free plan and a free trial for GIS software?

A free plan is an ongoing no-cost option; a free trial is time-limited. Check the individual product's terms for details.

Which GIS software has a free plan?

GeoDa, GRASS GIS, ILWIS and Mapbox Studio are listed with free plans.

Does free GIS software mean it is open source?

No. A free plan and open-source code are different; check the product's license if you need to inspect or change its code.

Which GIS tools offer a free trial?

CARTO and Global Mapper list 14-day trials, and MapInfo Pro lists a 30-day trial. Manifold GIS (Release 9) is also listed with a free trial.

How do I know if GIS software will work on my computer?

Check its supported platforms, such as Windows, macOS or Linux, and whether it offers web or self-hosted access.

Some top positions on this board can be paid placements, standing where they were sold. The facts on each platform are not for sale. How we rank · Disclosure