GRASS GIS: Open-source GIS for advanced raster, vector and terrain analysis. QGIS: Free and open-source desktop GIS for Windows, macOS and Linux.
| GRASS GIS | QGIS | |
|---|---|---|
| Category | Desktop GIS | Desktop GIS |
| Pricing model | Open source | Open source |
| Starts at | Free | Free |
| Free tier | — | — |
| Open source | Yes | Yes |
| Software licence | GPL-2.0+ | GPL-2.0+ |
| API | — | — |
| Platforms | Windows, macOS, Linux, Python | Windows, macOS, Linux |
| Made by | — | — |
| Commercial use | Allowed | Allowed |
| Export / print images | Allowed | Allowed |
| Offline / caching | Allowed | Allowed |
| Visits from MapTools | 8 | 9 |
| Visit | Visit |
GRASS GIS features
- Raster and terrain analysis
- Hydrological modelling
- Image processing
- Python and command-line scripting
QGIS features
- Vector and raster editing and analysis
- Processing toolbox with hundreds of algorithms
- Print layouts and atlases
- PostGIS, WMS, WFS and vector tiles
- Python plugins
The software is free for any use. Basemaps and data you load keep their own licences.
QGIS alternativesSummary based on public information. Check each provider's current pricing and terms.