Global Mapper - 2026 Pricing, Features, Reviews & Alternatives

Global Mapper is a GIS software that provides geospatial professionals with an array of spatial data processing tools and access to a variety of data formats. Developed for GIS professionals, map enthusiasts, geospatial analysts, cartographers, and drone operators, Global Mapper offers a user interface and logical layout to help streamline the learning curve.

The software supports multiple file formats, including vector, raster, elevation, and point cloud data types, allowing users to load, combine, crop, and tile almost any data. Global Mapper also provides access to online data sources, including aerial imagery, worldwide elevation data, topographic maps, Landsat satellite imagery, land cover data, and aviation charts. The software's data visualization capabilities enable optimal analysis, including customizable shaders and the ability to record HD fly-through videos for sharing. Users can create, edit, and analyze vector data using a wide range of digitizing tools and specialized geometric functions, while raster data can be displayed, adjusted, and analyzed with visual tools such as pan sharpening, image feathering, and contrast adjustments.

Global Mapper's terrain analysis capabilities support dynamic terrain visualization, contour generation, watershed analysis, path profile, and viewshed calculations. The software also offers workflow optimization and data processing features, including the ability to automate tasks with Global Mapper Scripts and batch process multiple files. Global Mapper Pro expands on the standard version, adding advanced lidar and point cloud processing, terrain painting, breakline calculation, and support for Python scripting and RTK devices.