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.
ArcGIS Urban
ArcGIS Urban is a web-based 3D planning platform that enables you to create, manage, and share land-use and zoning plans while visualizing the impact of proposed developments on your community.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | Global Mapper | ArcGIS Urban |
|---|---|---|
| Website | bluemarblegeo.com | esri.com |
| Pricing Model | One_time | Custom |
| Starting Price | $99/month | Custom Pricing |
| FREE Trial | ✓ 14 days free trial | ✓ 21 days 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 | 1969 |
| Headquarters | Hallowell, USA | Redlands, USA |
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.
ArcGIS Urban
ArcGIS Urban is a web-based 3D platform designed to transform how you approach city planning and real estate development. You can move beyond static 2D maps by creating immersive 3D models of your entire city, allowing you to visualize proposed buildings and zoning changes in their actual context. It helps you streamline the planning process by providing a centralized location for all your spatial data, development projects, and long-term plans.
You can use the platform to evaluate different planning scenarios and automatically calculate how new developments will impact population growth, job creation, and traffic. It is built for urban planners, real estate developers, and local government officials who need to communicate complex ideas to stakeholders clearly. By using data-driven insights, you can make more informed decisions that shape the future of your community while ensuring transparency throughout the public review process.
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.
ArcGIS Urban Features
- 3D Scenario Modeling. Create and compare multiple design alternatives in 3D to see how different zoning rules change your city's skyline.
- Zoning Automation. Apply complex zoning parameters to your 3D models automatically to visualize maximum building envelopes and floor area ratios.
- Impact Analysis. Track key performance indicators like projected population, required parking spaces, and energy consumption for every proposed development project.
- Project Tracking. Manage your entire pipeline of development applications in one map-based view to monitor status and construction progress.
- Public Engagement. Share your 3D plans online to gather feedback from citizens and stakeholders through an intuitive, interactive web interface.
- Data Integration. Connect your existing GIS layers and BIM models to ensure your planning decisions are based on the most accurate data.
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
ArcGIS Urban 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
ArcGIS Urban
Pros
- Excellent 3D visualization of complex zoning regulations
- Seamless integration with the broader ArcGIS ecosystem
- Simplifies communication with non-technical stakeholders and citizens
- Powerful automated calculations for development impact metrics
Cons
- Requires high-quality underlying 3D data for best results
- Learning curve for users unfamiliar with GIS concepts
- Pricing can be high for smaller municipalities
- Performance depends heavily on your internet connection speed