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Analytics & Data

Best GIS and Mapping Software in 2026

GIS and mapping software gives people tools to create, analyse or share geographic information. This list is for teams and individuals comparing tools before choosing one.

  1. 01 Mapbox Studio

    Mapbox Studio suits people creating branded map styles or visualizing their own geographic data.

    Free plan Web · iOS · Android · API
    8.3 Visit Specs
  2. 02 Global Mapper

    Global Mapper is aimed at GIS professionals, surveyors, engineers, government agencies, utilities, environmental consultants, and public safety organizations.

    From $49.92/mo Free trial Windows · iOS · Android
    8.1 Visit Specs
  3. 03 CARTO
    Free trial Web · API · Self-hosted
    8.0 Visit Specs
  4. 04 GRASS GIS

    GRASS GIS suits scientists, researchers, developers, government agencies, universities, and companies working with geographic data.

    Free plan Web · Windows · macOS · Linux
    8.0 Visit Specs
  5. 05 ArcGIS Hub
    Web · API · Self-hosted
    7.7 Visit Specs
  6. 06 Manifold GIS (Release 9)
    Free trial Windows · Self-hosted
    7.7 Visit Specs
  7. 07 QGIS

    QGIS suits people and organizations working with spatial data who need mapping, analysis, or publishing tools.

    Free plan Windows · macOS · Linux · iOS
    7.7 Visit Specs
  8. 08 SAGA GIS
    Free plan Windows · macOS · Linux
    7.2 Visit Specs
  9. 09 ILWIS52°North
    Free plan
    6.3 Visit Specs
  10. 10 GeoDa
    Windows · macOS · Linux
    6.0 Visit Specs
  11. 11 ArcGIS ProEsri
    5.8 Visit Specs
  12. 12 GeoMediaHexagon
    5.7 Visit Specs
  13. 13 Hexagon M.App EnterpriseHexagon
    5.4 Visit Specs
  14. 14 MapInfo Pro
    Windows
    5.4 Visit Specs
How this list is ordered. Specifiction scores each tool on how fully its maker documents it, whether its prices are published, where the research puts it, the platforms it runs on and whether it can be tried for free (how we rank). Makers can also buy a numbered place (how Specifiction is paid for).

Check the pricing model, free access and trial terms. Confirm that the deployment option fits your work, such as Windows, Linux, web, macOS, self-hosting or an API.

Compare Mapbox Studio and Global Mapper Get a place on this list

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