MapTools
Open source Open source

QGIS

Free and open-source desktop GIS for Windows, macOS and Linux

Visit qgis.org Alternatives Compare with MapInfo Pro

What is QGIS?

QGIS is the leading free and open-source desktop GIS. It edits and analyses vector and raster data, connects to databases and web services, runs hundreds of processing algorithms and produces print-quality map layouts.

A large plugin ecosystem extends it for almost any task, and it is used by governments, consultancies and universities worldwide.

Key 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

Strengths

  • Free with no licence limits
  • Huge plugin ecosystem
  • Runs on all desktop systems

Limitations

  • Learning curve for beginners
  • Some workflows less streamlined than commercial GIS

Pricing

Model
Open source
Starts at
Free
Free tier
Free to use
Software licence
GPL-2.0+

Prices change often. Check the official pricing page before you buy.

Licensing & map usage

Commercial useAllowed
Export / print map imagesAllowed
Offline use / cachingAllowed

The software is free for any use. Basemaps and data you load keep their own licences.

Summary only, not legal advice. The provider's current terms always apply.

QGIS alternatives

See all

MapInfo Pro

precisely.com

Desktop GIS for business location analysis

PaidDesktop GIS10
DetailsVisit

SAGA GIS

saga-gis.sourceforge.io

Free GIS with a large library of terrain and raster analysis tools

Open sourceDesktop GIS10
DetailsVisit

ArcGIS Pro

esri.com

Esri's professional desktop GIS

PaidDesktop GIS9
DetailsVisit

GRASS GIS

grass.osgeo.org

Open-source GIS for advanced raster, vector and terrain analysis

Open sourceDesktop GIS8
DetailsVisit

Maptitude

caliper.com

Low-cost desktop mapping with bundled demographic data

PaidDesktop GIS8
DetailsVisit

Global Mapper

bluemarblegeo.com

Affordable desktop GIS with strong format support and terrain tools

PaidDesktop GIS7
DetailsVisit

Compare: QGIS vs MapInfo ProQGIS vs SAGA GISQGIS vs ArcGIS ProQGIS vs GRASS GISQGIS vs Maptitude