Global Mapper
Global Mapper is an all-in-one GIS software providing a comprehensive suite of spatial data processing tools, advanced terrain analysis, and 3D visualization capabilities for both novice and experienced professionals.
Leica Infinity
Leica Infinity is a comprehensive geospatial office software designed to manage, process, analyze, and check all your field survey data from total stations, digital levels, and GNSS sensors.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | Global Mapper | Leica Infinity |
|---|---|---|
| Website | bluemarblegeo.com | hexagon.com |
| Pricing Model | One_time | Custom |
| Starting Price | $99/month | Custom Pricing |
| FREE Trial | ✓ 14 days free trial | ✘ No free trial |
| Free Plan | ✘ No free plan | ✘ No free plan |
| Product Demo | ✓ Request demo here | ✓ Request demo here |
| Deployment | ||
| Integrations | ||
| Target Users | ||
| Target Industries | ||
| Customer Count | 0 | 0 |
| Founded Year | 1993 | 1921 |
| Headquarters | Hallowell, USA | Heerbrugg, Switzerland |
Overview
Global Mapper
Global Mapper is a versatile Geographic Information System (GIS) tool that gives you the power to handle almost any spatial data challenge. Whether you are calculating cut-and-fill volumes, generating contours from terrain data, or performing complex LiDAR processing, you can manage your entire workflow within a single interface. It removes the need for multiple niche tools by supporting over 300 different spatial data formats right out of the box.
You can easily transition from 2D map viewing to immersive 3D fly-throughs to better understand your landscape. The software is designed for professionals in surveying, engineering, and environmental management who need technical precision without a steep learning curve. It provides a cost-effective alternative to expensive enterprise GIS suites while maintaining high-level analytical capabilities for your daily mapping projects.
Leica Infinity
Leica Infinity is the bridge between your field equipment and your final office deliverables. You can manage data from multiple sensors—including GNSS, total stations, and levels—within a single project environment to ensure absolute consistency. The software allows you to visualize your field projects in 3D, perform complex network adjustments, and verify data quality before it ever leaves your desk.
You can process terrestrial data alongside UAV imagery and point clouds to create detailed surfaces or volume calculations. By connecting directly to Leica Exchange and other cloud services, you move data instantly between the field and office, reducing travel time and manual errors. It is designed for surveyors, civil engineers, and BIM specialists who need high-precision results and traceable data workflows.
Overview
Global Mapper Features
- Extensive Format Support Access and combine data from over 300 different file formats including SHP, DXF, KML, and various LiDAR types.
- Terrain Analysis Generate contours, perform watershed mapping, and calculate line-of-sight or viewshed analysis to understand your physical landscape.
- LiDAR Processing Classify point clouds automatically and create high-resolution digital terrain models from your raw drone or aerial scans.
- 3D Visualization View your data in a dedicated 3D window to create realistic fly-through videos and evaluate elevation changes.
- Image Rectification Turn any paper map or unreferenced image into a geographically accurate layer by assigning real-world coordinates.
- Volume Calculation Measure terrain volume changes and calculate stockpiles accurately using simple polygon tools on your elevation layers.
Leica Infinity Features
- Multi-Sensor Processing. Combine data from GNSS, total stations, and digital levels into one project for a complete, unified survey result.
- 3D Visual Inspection. View your field data against high-resolution maps and 3D models to spot measurement errors before finishing your report.
- Network Adjustment. Run rigorous 1D, 2D, and 3D adjustments to ensure your survey control meets strict accuracy and compliance standards.
- Point Cloud Integration. Import and manage massive scan data sets to extract features, calculate volumes, and create detailed surface models.
- UAV Photogrammetry. Process aerial imagery to generate orthophotos and point clouds without needing separate, specialized photogrammetry software.
- Cloud Data Exchange. Send jobs to field crews and receive completed data instantly through integrated Leica Exchange and ConX services.
Pricing Comparison
Global Mapper Pricing
- Support for 300+ formats
- Advanced 2D/3D viewing
- Terrain analysis tools
- Digitizer & feature editing
- Scripting and automation
- Online data access
- Everything in Standard, plus:
- LiDAR classification tools
- Pixels-to-Points photogrammetry
- Automatic feature extraction
- Terrain painting tools
- Advanced point cloud filtering
Leica Infinity Pricing
Pros & Cons
Global Mapper
Pros
- Unmatched variety of supported spatial data formats
- Fast processing speeds for large elevation datasets
- Lower price point than major enterprise competitors
- Intuitive interface that is easy to learn
- Excellent 3D rendering and visualization capabilities
Cons
- Interface can feel dated compared to modern apps
- Advanced LiDAR features require a Pro upgrade
- Limited advanced cartographic styling for final maps
Leica Infinity
Pros
- Seamless data transfer with Leica Captivate field hardware
- Excellent handling of complex 3D terrestrial scan data
- Rigorous reporting provides full traceability for legal surveys
- Unified interface for GNSS and total station data
Cons
- Significant learning curve for users new to Leica
- High hardware requirements for processing large point clouds
- Modular pricing makes the full suite quite expensive