14 Open-Source & Free GIS Software

Priya Naha

Senior Writer

14 Open-Source & Free GIS Software

Key Takeaways:

  1. By tapping into open-source mapping tools, organizations can unlock powerful spatial analysis and visualization capabilities at little to no cost.
  2. An intuitive user interface and a short learning curve are key to effective ongoing use of the software.
  3. Prioritizing software that aligns with your requirements will lead to higher productivity and decision-making leverage from location intelligence.

Location intelligence is indispensable for organizations seeking geographic insights to drive strategic decisions and operations. With the global geospatial analytics market projected to reach $141.9 billion by 2028 at a 12.6% CAGR, it’s clear that mapping and spatial data are creating competitive advantages across industries. But for many, the high costs of proprietary GIS platforms put advanced geospatial capabilities out of reach. This is where free and open-source GIS software comes in. Why do you need GIS Software, you may ask?

Looking for GIS Software? Check out SoftwareSuggest’s list of the best GIS Software solutions.

The answer is simple: to collate, analyze & process geospatial data, and display the map representation in 2D or 3D format. 

But with so many free GIS software tools now available, identifying the top solutions can be challenging. Let’s start with exploring the factors to consider when choosing GIS Software –  

What are the Factors To Consider When Choosing GIS Software?

Selecting the right GIS (Geographic Information System) software is a pivotal decision for organizations and individuals seeking to harness the power of spatial data. With a multitude of options available, making an informed choice is essential. Below are the factors to consider when choosing GIS Software-

1. Functionality

When selecting GIS (Geographic Information System) software, one of the primary factors to consider is functionality. You must assess whether the software offers the features and tools needed to accomplish your goals. Different GIS software packages cater to various applications, such as urban planning, environmental analysis, or asset management

Ensure that your chosen software provides the necessary spatial analysis, mapping, and data visualization capabilities for your project. Consider aspects like data editing, geoprocessing, 3D visualization, and support for various data formats. Additionally, examine whether the software supports advanced functionalities like network analysis, spatial statistics, and custom scripting for automation.

2. Ease of Adoption and Use

Usability plays a significant role in GIS software selection. An intuitive and user-friendly interface can save time and reduce the learning curve for your team. Look for software with clear navigation, easy data input, and robust visualization tools. Training requirements should also be considered; software with comprehensive training resources and a supportive user community can be valuable.

3. Data Compatibility & Integration

Another crucial factor is data compatibility and integration capabilities. GIS relies heavily on data, and your software should be able to seamlessly work with the data sources you have or plan to use. 

Ensure the GIS software supports various data formats, including shapefiles, geodatabases, remote sensing data, and real-time data feeds. Compatibility with popular industry standards, like Open Geospatial Consortium (OGC) standards, is essential to ensure interoperability with other GIS systems and databases.

4. Analytical & Processing Capabilities

The analytical and processing capabilities of GIS software are pivotal for conducting meaningful spatial analysis. Evaluate the software’s ability to perform tasks like spatial querying, network analysis, spatial modeling, and geoprocessing. Ensure that it offers advanced analysis tools relevant to your project’s objectives. Scalability is also vital; the software should handle larger datasets and complex analyses if your project requires it.

5. Licensing & Cost Considerations

Budget constraints are a crucial factor for many organizations. Evaluate the licensing models and costs associated with GIS software. Some software options require a one-time purchase, while others operate on a subscription basis. Consider the initial software costs and continuous maintenance, support, and potential growth expenses. Consider open-source GIS alternatives as they can provide cost-effective solutions.

By thoroughly evaluating these aspects, you can determine which free GIS solution best fits your specific feature needs, work preferences, and use cases. Prioritizing software that aligns with your requirements will lead to higher productivity and decision-making leverage from location intelligence.

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Pro-tip

Each GIS software has unique features and capabilities, so matching your needs to the right tool is crucial. Prioritize open-source options for cost-effectiveness without compromising on functionality. Embrace the community support that comes with these tools; it's a valuable resource for troubleshooting and learning. Stay updated with GIS trends and technologies to ensure your skills remain relevant. Lastly, remember that while these tools are free, investing in training can significantly enhance your proficiency and project outcomes.

14 Best Free GIS Software (Open Source GIS Software) 

Deploying top-tier GIS software can cost hefty amounts. Still, we bring an open-source GIS software list for your organization to do the work as perfectly and accurately as any commercial software.

Software NamePricingFeatures
ArcGIS has 9 plans ranging from $100 to $3,800.Directions-mapping, Data visualization
Custom pricingGoogle street view integration, Automatic routing options
Custom pricingSymbol composer, OpenStreetMap and OGC services integration
Online Subscription – $420Spatial analysis, Data visualization
Simple GIS Client – $100.003-D representation of data, Advanced reporting and dashboard feature
Basic – $5959 Per YearIdentifying better well spots, Contour mapping possible
Custom pricingLossless compression, Mosaic datasets possible
Custom pricingOverlaying, Spatial data analysis
Custom pricingRaster analysis, Vector analysis
FreeSpatial analysis, Layer editing
Custom pricingVector operations, Import base maps
FreeFramework-independent function development, Object-oriented system design
Custom pricingImage processing tools, Hydrology tools
Custom pricingVector representation, Raster and remote sensing

1. ArcGIS

Collating and managing spatial data has never been easier than the best open-source GIS software, ArcGIS. The data can also be shared and analyzed smoothly using ArcGIS Software. Since it is accessible on a desktop and a mobile platform, you could use it on-premises or through the cloud.

ArcGIS

A robust tool for all map-related needs, this open-source GIS software is maintained by ESRI (Environmental Systems Research Institute). The tool is easy to comprehend with a basic understanding of the elements involved. 

Key Features

  • Geocoding
  • Directions-mapping
  • Data visualization
  • Offline mode to access maps
  • Spatial analysis
  • Imagery

Pricing

  • ArcGIS has 9 plans ranging from $100 to $3,800.
Pros
  • The platform is known for its robust performance, reliability, and stability in GIS operations.
  • It offers a comprehensive preset of tools that simplify various geospatial tasks.
  • Advanced reporting features empower users with in-depth data analysis capabilities.
  • It excels at handling substantial volumes of vector data, ensuring efficient processing.
  • Users can effortlessly publish web maps, enhancing accessibility and data sharing.
Cons
  • The pricing structure is often considered too high, potentially limiting accessibility for some users.
  • The reliance on proprietary formats makes it a non-free solution, restricting data interchange with open-source alternatives.
  • Data transfer between ESRI and other GIS platforms is not seamless, posing challenges for cross-platform compatibility.

2. 3-GIS Network Solutions

Planning, designing, and managing networks is easy with 3-GIS Network Solutions, one of the best open-source GIS software. Many engineering firms, utility owners, and other service providers have trusted all their web-based solutions worldwide.

3-GIS Network Solutions

Not just time but finances can be managed easily with the help of this easy-to-use tool. The features are easy to navigate and super intuitive. High scalability is a major plus factor, as well as the tool’s insightful statistics for your business.

Key Features

  • Geocoding
  • Google street view integration
  • Automatic routing options
  • Interoperability
  • Spatial Analysis
  • Color Coding

Pricing

  • Custom pricing
Pros
  • The software is known for being budget-friendly and offering cost-effective solutions.
  • It boasts highly scalable capabilities, allowing it to adapt to the growing needs of businesses.
  • It provides easy design, making it accessible for users to create tailored solutions.
  • Real-time information sharing is a key feature, facilitating instant communication and collaboration.
Cons
  • Unfortunately, no free trial option is available for users to test the software before committing.
  • The import feature is often considered unreliable and struggles to handle large files effectively.
  • Some users have reported that the software can operate sluggishly and occasionally become challenging to navigate.

3. SuperGIS Desktop

Analyzing patterns of spatial data is the USP of the SuperGIS Desktop. Not just presenting the data more straightforwardly and understandably, this tool is a suite of applications that help you distribute resources and break down patterns.

SuperGIS Desktop

With the SuperGIS Desktop, you can work on many analytical solutions like extract analysis, georeferencing, proximity analysis, translation of projections, and much more.

Key Features

  • Spatial analysis
  • Process designer 
  • Symbol composer
  • OpenStreetMap and OGC services integration
  • High precision survey data

Pricing

  • Custom pricing
Pros
  • The software offers a budget-friendly option for users seeking cost-effective solutions.
  • It’s known for creating visually appealing maps and enhancing data presentation and analysis.
  • The robust and reliable platform ensures a stable environment for GIS tasks.
  • It features an intuitive graphical user interface (GUI) for user-friendly navigation.
  • Users with a basic understanding of GIS concepts will find it easy to get started, and it provides valuable tools like Symbol Composer and Process Designer.
Cons
  • While relatively easy to learn, users should be familiar with the system to maximize its benefits.
  • The software has a higher price tag than some of its competitors.
  • A moderate learning curve is associated with the software, which may require some patience during the initial stages.

4. Maptitude

Mainly developed for business users, Maptitude has slowly expanded its wings to other domains as well, basically wherever spatial analysis is needed. Very easy to integrate with Microsoft Office, this tool requires knowledge of the Caliper Script programming language.

Maptitude

Moreover, with Maptitude, you can geocode addresses, and the tool will do the rest for you. The tool is cloud-based and more of a location intelligence tool than just a GIS one. With Maptitude, you can quickly and seamlessly analyze all types of spatial data at a very affordable cost.

Key Features

  • Interoperability
  • Geocoding
  • Color coding
  • Spatial analysis
  • Data visualization
  • Analysis of trade area

Pricing

  • Online Subscription – $420
  • Desktop Subscription – $695
  • Desktop No Subscription – $995
  • Enterprise Subscription – $9,995
Pros
  • It offers cost-effective pricing options, making it budget-friendly for organizations.
  • Users can enjoy highly interactive maps that enhance the visual experience.
  • The tool seamlessly integrates geocoded addresses, facilitating precise location data.
  • With built-in census data integration, users can access valuable demographic insights effortlessly.
  • It supports integration with various GIS platforms, promoting interoperability.
  • The platform’s user-friendly interface ensures an intuitive experience for all users.
  • Demographic data is consistently updated annually, keeping information current.
Cons
  • Customization options are limited, potentially restricting users from tailoring the tool to specific needs.
  • While it excels in many aspects, it may not offer the same level of sophistication as other top-tier GIS tools.
  • There’s room for improvement in customer support to provide more responsive assistance to users.

5. gisAMPS

Look no further if you are looking for an all-included web-based tool to analyze spatial data. gisAMPS open-source GIS software delivers what it says on its product page to the ‘T.’ This tool can bring all business processes under one umbrella, enabling access to real-time information for all field agents.

gisAMPS

gisAMPS can be easily integrated with all geoAMPS products. Thanks to its dashboard feature, it has the right mix of a reliable and intuitive mapping methodology and robust business analysis capabilities.

Key Features

  • Real-time tracking
  • Virtual fly-by possible
  • 3-D representation of data
  • Advanced reporting and dashboard feature
  • Offline access to data

Pricing

  • Simple GIS Client – $100.00
Pros
  • It offers a cost-effective solution for budget-conscious users.
  • Users can achieve project milestones more swiftly, thanks to improved speed.
  • It boasts lower overall costs, making it an attractive choice for organizations.
  • The tool provides a central database facilitating seamless collaboration across the entire team.
  • It automates business analytics processes, enhancing efficiency and data-driven decision-making.
Cons
  • While functional, this application may not match other geographic information software’s robustness.
  • There’s room for improvement in design and functionality, allowing for further enhancements.
  • Users have reported that customer support could benefit from enhancements for better assistance.

6. LMKR GeoGraphix

Since the Exploration and production industry (E&P industry) is built for Geo technicians, LMKR GeoGraphix, one of the best open-source GIS software, enables the E&P industry to perform its function more cost-friendly and error-free. Fracturing and drilling are two processes that are both time-consuming as well as prone to human errors when it comes to analyzing landscapes.

LMKR GeoGraphix

Thanks to its vast features, you may have already come across this product if you are someone from the E & P industry.

With Geographix, Well and stream data can be easily captured and better field plans made. And not just that, quality mapping can be done in no time.

Key Features

  • Real-time satellite imagery
  • Shapefile map-layering
  • Identifying better well spots
  • Contour mapping possible
  • Current land position
  • High-definition maps

Pricing

  • Basic – $5959 Per Year
Pros
  • It offers budget-friendly pricing options, making it cost-effective for many users.
  • The software seamlessly interlinks data, facilitating efficient data management and accessibility.
  • Project data storage is smooth, ensuring organized and easily retrievable information.
  • It boasts robust quality control features, enhancing data accuracy and reliability.
  • Users can utilize it to identify intricate strata details, adding depth to geospatial analysis.
  • The software enables virtual data visualization, enhancing the understanding of complex datasets.
Cons
  • The clarity of isoline resolution may concern some users, potentially affecting data interpretation.
  • Compatibility is limited to 64-bit processors, which may pose limitations for older hardware users.
  • There’s room for improvement in design and functionalities, suggesting opportunities for further enhancement.

7. Extensis GeoExpress

What do you do with the heaps of high-definition geospatial imagery, and how to deal with issues regarding sharing and storing them? Well, go in for Extensis GeoExpress, a tool built to compress imagery in MrSID (or multiresolution seamless image database) format. This format helps retain the quality of the image while squeezing it into a compact size.

Extensis GeoExpress

Moreover, you can edit and share the image for further analysis if you are unhappy with some of the original components. Patented by LizardTech, you can quickly develop orthophotos of spatial data.

Key Features

  • Raster and LiDAR image support
  • MrSID
  • Lossless compression
  • Mosaic datasets possible
  • Fine editing
  • Multi-spectral image bands

Pricing

  • Custom pricing
Pros
  • MrSID files boast reduced file sizes, optimizing storage and data management.
  • Lossless compression techniques ensure that image quality remains unaltered.
  • These files are easy to store, simplifying the organization of imagery resources.
  • MrSID offers finer-quality imagery for enhanced visual analysis in GIS applications like ArcGIS, QGIS, ENVI, Autodesk, and more.
Cons
  • Converting TIFF or JPG to MrSID requires purchasing additional credits post-processing, incurring extra costs.
  • Managing extensive aerial image and image data collection can become challenging due to their size.
  • The .sid file format needs decompression to access images, which may extend the time required for retrieval and utilization.

8. QGIS

Regarding automating map production, processing geospatial data, and generating cartographic figures, QGIS is the best free and open-source GIS software for your requirements.

QGIS

Besides composing and exporting graphical maps, it lets you carefully view, edit, and analyze geospatial data. QGIS supports both raster and vector layers.

QGIS integrates with other open-source geographic information systems and extends its capabilities. It is mostly used for terrain analysis, disaster risk reduction, and environmental resource mapping.

Key Features

  • Data capturing
  • Overlaying
  • Spatial data analysis
  • Create, edit, manage, and export data

Pricing

  • Custom pricing
Pros
  • The platform provides an array of customizable plugins and tools to cater to specific user needs.
  • It boasts exceptional digitizing capabilities, enhancing accuracy and precision in geospatial data handling.
  • Its intuitive and user-friendly interface streamlines the GIS workflow.
  • Users can seamlessly analyze data across various databases and OGR formats, ensuring versatility in data processing.
Cons
  • It may not be ideal for individuals primarily focused on map creation, as its strengths lie in other GIS functions.
  • Enhancing its image analysis capabilities could improve its utility for certain users.
  • The platform presents a steep learning curve, requiring time and effort for users to become proficient.

9. GRASS GIS

GRASS refers to the Geographic Resources Analysis Support System and is a commercial GIS software for land management and environmental planning. It is an open-source GIS software that offers tools and programs for several tasks. This includes image processing, data management, spatial modeling, graphic production, and visualization.

GRASS GIS

Companies looking for a GIS package that can help in terrain manipulation must consider GRASS the top option.

Key Features

  • Image processing
  • Raster analysis
  • Vector analysis
  • Geocoding

Pricing

  • Custom pricing
Pros
  • Its extensive toolkit offers a wide range of capabilities for vector and raster data manipulation.
  • It seamlessly integrates with other geospatial tools, ensuring compatibility with satellite imagery, topographic maps, or vector data.
  • Its user-friendly interface and reliability make it an intuitive choice for geospatial tasks.
  • Renowned for its power and user-friendliness, it’s a highly capable and accessible tool.
Cons
  • However, it falls short of meeting the needs of cartographic design, lacking some essential features in this area.
  • Using the software effectively can be challenging due to a steep learning curve, requiring dedicated time and effort for mastery.
  • Data management within the software can be complex, potentially posing difficulties in organizing and maintaining datasets.

10. OpenJump

OpenJUMP is a GIS mapping software powered by a collaborative community effort, with “JUMP” denoting “Java Unified Mapping Platform. It boasts functionalities that enable users to read and write shapefiles, read different spatial databases, and interpret various vector formats. One more striking feature it offers is the ability to edit geometry. OpenJump allows users to analyze buffers, overlays, and vector data.

OpenJump

It is proficient at letting you create pie charts, plotting, and choropleth maps. Moreover, OpenJump GIS plugins add to its capabilities. Whether you need a plugin for raster, editing, printing, web processing, spatial data analysis, or databases, it provides them all.

Key Features

  • Chart data
  • Spatial analysis
  • Layer editing
  • Geometry data

Pricing

  • Free
Pros
  • Users can efficiently modify both geometry and attribute data within the software.
  • The software exhibits excellent support for images and seamlessly integrates with WFS and WMS web services.
  • Streamlined editing capabilities are available for geometry and attribute data, enhancing user flexibility.
  • Easily tailor the appearance of your information to meet specific requirements.
Cons
  • Customer support could benefit from enhancements to address user inquiries and issues better.
  • Navigating data management within the software can be a complex process requiring careful attention.
  • Users may encounter a challenge where changes made during work sessions sometimes remain unsaved, necessitating the maintenance of regular backups to safeguard ongoing projects.

11. uDig

uDig stand for – 

  • u – user-friendly interface
  • D – Desktop: You can run uDig on Windows, Mac, and Linux
  • i – Internet-oriented consuming standard; this includes WMS, WFS, or WPS
  • g – GIS-ready for complex analytical capabilities

uDig

uDig is most suitable for elemental mapping. With its Mapnik, you can import base maps with the same tune as ArcGIS offers. Built with Eclipse Rich Client (RCP) technology, it aims to provide a user-friendly framework for building complex analytic data. 

Key Features

  • Layer editing
  • Editing tools
  • Vector operations
  • Import base maps

Pricing

  • Custom pricing
Pros
  • It can function as a standalone application or seamlessly integrate with RCP plugins, providing flexibility in usage.
  • uDig’s strength lies in its robust catalog, symbology options, and Mac OS compatibility, making it a powerful choice for geospatial tasks.
  • uDig software elevates business processes to a more stable and intellectually-driven level, facilitating enhanced utilization.
  • Its software is exceptionally adaptable, catering to the unique needs of every individual user.
Cons
  • Personalization options for data are limited, restricting customization possibilities.
  • There is room for improvement in customer support, with opportunities to enhance responsiveness and assistance.
  • Users may encounter slower processing speeds when utilizing the software, which could affect efficiency in data handling.

12. SAGA GIS

SAGA GIS specializes in automated geoscientific analysis. Though it started as terrain analysis, it is now jam-packed with a growing set of geoscientific methods. It is the best free GIS software for the geoscientific community.

SAGA GIS

As an interactive GUI, it enables users to visualize and manage geographic data with the help of maps, graphs, and histograms. Additionally, it allows multiple windows to showcase all your analysis. It has the best morphometry tools, including SAGA topographic wetness index and topographic position classification.

Key Features

  • Intuitive GUI
  • Framework-independent function development
  • Object-oriented system design
  • Data capture & storage.
  • Data manipulation & visualization
  • Geo-referencing projections

Pricing

  • Free
Pros
  • SAGA GIS can efficiently manage substantial volumes of vector data and information.
  • SAGA GIS offers a rich array of pre-built tools, encompassing terrain analysis, hydrology assessment, fire spread analysis, and more.
  • SAGA GIS provides a user-friendly GUI software application and a Python API for enhanced flexibility.
  • Users can harness the advantages of working with raster and spatial data in various formats.
Cons
  • It is not suitable as the primary tool for cartography-related tasks.
  • SAGA GIS may face limitations when handling extensive datasets efficiently.
  • Unfortunately, SAGA GIS is not compatible with the iOS operating system.

13. Whitebox GAT

Whitebox GAT is the perfect GIS tool when performing advanced geospatial data analysis. With applications in both – environmental research and the geomatics industry – it is the most powerful open-source GIS software your company can benefit from for its requirements.

Whitebox GAT

Whitebox Geospatial Analysis Tools use LIDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) data that enables users to precisely explore natural and human-made environments. Furthermore, it possesses hydrodynamic, storm surge, and shoreline modeling functionalities.

Key Features

  • LIDAR data
  • Image processing tools
  • Hydrology tools
  • GIS tools

Pricing

  • Custom pricing
Pros
  • Over 410 tools to clip, convert, analyze, buffer, manage, and extract geospatial data management information.
  • The software offers a rich selection of over 410 tools for tasks like clipping, converting, analyzing, buffering, managing, and extracting geospatial data with remarkable efficiency.
  • Users can appreciate its intuitive interface, which ensures ease of use and stable performance.
  • Being open-source, it benefits from ongoing support, ensuring its reliability and relevance.
  • It is an open-access and remote-sensing GIS package that enhances accessibility and utility.
Cons
  • However, it provides limited support for metadata standards, which may impact data documentation and organization.
  • The software’s capabilities for handling LiDAR data are lacking, potentially limiting its suitability for certain projects.
  • Unfortunately, it lacks seamless integration options with other software and open-source GIS projects, potentially hampering interoperability.

14. GVSIG

The last on our list is gvSIG – free proprietary GIS software that hosts the largest professional network of open-source geomatics. It lets GIS users create layouts and access different geoprocessing networks easily.

GVSIG

Regarding 3D visualization, no other software can beat gvSIG system software. Its CAD tools enable you to edit vertices, trace geometries, snap and split lines and polygons. Moreover, gvSIG’s mobile app helps companies maintain track of fieldwork with its GPS tools.

Key Features

  • 3D and animation
  • Vector representation
  • Raster and remote sensing
  • Topology

Pricing

  • Custom pricing
Pros
  • The software seamlessly handles various vector formats, enhancing compatibility and data integration.
  • It boasts a rich set of advanced tools tailored for spatial analysis, enabling in-depth geospatial insights.
  • Users benefit from a mobile application designed for fieldwork and 3D capabilities, expanding its utility.
  • The inclusion of powerful CAD tools adds versatility to the software’s capabilities.
Cons
  • Challenges arise when effectively labeling vector information to match presentation requirements.
  • Users encounter limitations when it comes to customizing the layout of fields in data tables and restricting data organization options.
  • Additional tools or integration may be necessary for comprehensive multi-platform mobile data collection.

Wrapping Up

Some businesses may require open-source GIS software that prioritizes topographical analysis, whereas some need cartography analysis. Thus, it is advisable to determine your business needs first and then find the right fit.

Now that you are familiar with so many geospatial imagery and analysis tools jot down your business requirements and let our blog help you choose the one that best fits your needs!

If you are already aware of any of these, which one did you like the most?

Frequently Asked Questions

GIS (Geographic Information System) software is used for visualizing, managing, and analyzing geospatial data. It helps users understand patterns, relationships, and trends in geographic information, making it valuable in urban planning, environmental management, disaster response, and business location analysis.

Free GIS software can be highly capable and sufficient for many tasks. It depends on your specific needs and the complexity of your projects. While paid GIS software may offer additional features and support, free options are robust and used professionally by many.

Yes, there are limitations to free GIS (Geographic Information System) software. While free tools offer robust capabilities, they may lack some advanced features in paid GIS software.

These limitations can include less extensive support for specialized spatial analysis techniques, limited access to commercial data sources, and potentially fewer plugins or extensions.

Also, free GIS software may not have the same user support and documentation level as their paid counterparts. However, for many users and organizations, these limitations are outweighed by the cost savings and the powerful features that free GIS software still provides.

Yes, you can use free GIS software for professional purposes. Many organizations and individuals rely on free GIS tools for tasks ranging from basic mapping to advanced spatial analysis. These tools often provide a cost-effective solution for professional applications.

You can use free GIS software through online tutorials, documentation, and courses. Websites like Udemy and Coursera offer GIS courses, and there are many free resources and forums where you can seek guidance and exchange knowledge with the GIS community. Experimenting with your projects is also valuable for learning and gaining practical experience.

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