The Best Global Mapper Alternatives for GIS Professionals
Global Mapper is a powerful GIS data processing application, offering a wide array of functionalities for those who work with maps and spatial data. It's a go-to utility for many, providing access to diverse spatial datasets and robust GIS features. However, whether due to cost, specific feature needs, or a desire for open-source solutions, many users seek a reliable Global Mapper alternative. This article explores some of the top contenders that offer similar capabilities, providing flexibility and choice for GIS professionals.
Top Global Mapper Alternatives
Finding the right GIS software can significantly impact your workflow. Here are some excellent alternatives to Global Mapper, ranging from feature-rich commercial options to robust open-source platforms, ensuring there's a perfect fit for every requirement.
QGIS
QGIS is a fully featured, user-friendly, and powerful open-source Geographic Information System (GIS). It stands out as an excellent Global Mapper alternative due to its extensive capabilities, often compared to commercial giants like ArcGIS. Available for Free and Open Source on Mac, Windows, Linux, Android, and BSD, QGIS offers features like Office 365 integration, multiplatform support, a table manager, ArcGIS compatibility, community-based development, and comprehensive mapping tools.
GRASS GIS
GRASS GIS (Geographic Resources Analysis Support System) is a robust open-source and free software (FOSS) Geographical Information System. As a strong Global Mapper alternative, it provides extensive raster and topological vector analysis capabilities. It's available for Free and Open Source on Mac, Windows, and Linux, and offers powerful mapping features, making it ideal for advanced spatial data processing.
ArcGIS
ArcGIS is a widely recognized commercial geographic information system (GIS) software for visualizing, managing, creating, and analyzing geographic data. It's a comprehensive Global Mapper alternative for professionals needing industry-standard tools. Available commercially for Windows, Web, Windows Mobile, Android, iPhone, Android Tablet, Windows Phone, and iPad, ArcGIS boasts features like interactive mapping, location mapping, optimization for mobile, apps with offline map support, a built-in editor, and extensive mapping functionalities.
gvSIG Desktop
gvSIG Desktop is a Geographic Information System (GIS) desktop application designed for capturing, storing, handling, analyzing, and deploying any kind of referenced data. It's a strong free Global Mapper alternative, offering powerful tools for spatial data management. Available for Free on Mac, Windows, and Linux, gvSIG Desktop provides comprehensive mapping features.
MapWindow GIS
MapWindow GIS is a fully free and open-source geographic information system project. It includes an open-source programming component, MapWinGIS ActiveX, and an extensible desktop application. As a free and open-source Global Mapper alternative for Windows, it offers robust mapping capabilities.
SAGA GIS
SAGA - System for Automated Geoscientific Analyses - is a Geographic Information System (GIS) software with immense capabilities for geodata processing and analysis. It's a valuable free and open-source Global Mapper alternative, available on Mac, Windows, and Linux, featuring a powerful modular system for diverse geoscientific tasks.
uDig
uDig is a GIS software program produced by a community led by Canadian-based consulting company Refractions Research. Based on the Eclipse platform, this free and open-source Global Mapper alternative for Windows offers strong mapping features, making it a reliable choice for various GIS projects.
Surfer
Surfer is a full-function contouring, gridding, and 3D surface mapping software. It is extensively used for terrain modeling, bathymetric modeling, and landscape analysis. As a commercial Global Mapper alternative for Windows, Surfer excels in visualization and analysis of spatial data through its powerful mapping features.
Maptitude
Maptitude is business mapping software (geographic information system) that delivers affordable, easy-to-use, professional mapping tools. It's a commercial Global Mapper alternative for Windows, specifically designed for sectors like franchising and business intelligence, offering location-based services, mapping, and online banking integration.
what3words
what3words is a geocoding system designed for the simple communication of locations with a resolution of 3 meters. While not a direct GIS processing suite like Global Mapper, it serves as a unique alternative for precise location referencing. It's available for Free on Web, Android, iPhone, and iPad, simplifying location sharing and navigation.
Choosing the best Global Mapper alternative depends heavily on your specific needs, budget, and desired feature set. Whether you require a full-fledged open-source GIS like QGIS or a specialized commercial solution like ArcGIS or Surfer, there's a powerful tool available to enhance your spatial data workflows. Explore these options to find the perfect fit for your GIS projects.