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Esri ArcGIS VS Mapserver

Compare Esri ArcGIS VS Mapserver and see what are their differences

Esri ArcGIS logo Esri ArcGIS

ArcGIS provides contextual tools for mapping and spatial reasoning so you can explore data & share location-based insights. ArcGIS is the heart of the Esri Geospatial Cloud. Try ArcGIS for free with 21-day trial.

Mapserver logo Mapserver

MapServer is an Open Source platform for publishing spatial data and interactive mapping...
  • Esri ArcGIS Landing page
    Landing page //
    2023-02-14
  • Mapserver Landing page
    Landing page //
    2023-05-13

Esri ArcGIS features and specs

  • Comprehensive Toolset
    ArcGIS offers a wide range of tools for mapping, spatial analysis, data management, and more, making it a versatile platform for various GIS needs.
  • Scalability
    ArcGIS can scale from individual use on a desktop to extensive enterprise deployments, allowing it to meet the needs of small projects as well as large organizations.
  • Integration Capabilities
    The platform supports integration with other software systems and databases, as well as various APIs, enabling seamless data sharing and workflow integration.
  • Robust Support and Documentation
    Esri provides extensive documentation, a comprehensive support system, and a vibrant user community, which can be invaluable for troubleshooting and learning.
  • Advanced Spatial Analysis
    ArcGIS includes powerful spatial analysis tools and machine learning capabilities to reveal patterns and insights from spatial data.
  • Regular Updates and Innovations
    Esri regularly updates ArcGIS, introducing new features, tools, and improvements to keep up with technology advancements and user requirements.
  • Cloud Services
    ArcGIS Online and ArcGIS Enterprise offer cloud-based solutions, providing robust data hosting, sharing, and collaboration capabilities.

Possible disadvantages of Esri ArcGIS

  • Cost
    ArcGIS can be expensive, especially for small organizations or individuals, as it requires a subscription or purchase of licenses for access to its full range of features.
  • Learning Curve
    Due to its comprehensive toolset, ArcGIS can have a steep learning curve, requiring significant time and training to master.
  • Hardware Requirements
    Running ArcGIS, particularly for large datasets and complex analyses, can require powerful hardware, which might necessitate additional infrastructure investment.
  • Complexity
    The software's extensive capabilities can sometimes be overwhelming, making it challenging for users to find and employ the right tools for their specific needs.
  • Licensing Complexity
    ArcGIS has multiple products and licensing options, which can be confusing and might require careful consideration to choose the best suited for the user's needs.
  • Dependency on Internet
    Some of the cloud-based features of ArcGIS require a stable internet connection, which can be a limitation in areas with poor connectivity.
  • Proprietary Software
    ArcGIS is not open-source, which means that users do not have full control over the software and its customizability might be limited compared to open-source GIS platforms.

Mapserver features and specs

  • Open Source
    MapServer is an open-source platform, which means it is free to use, modify, and distribute. This makes it accessible for many users and allows for customization according to project needs.
  • Flexibility
    MapServer supports a wide range of raster and vector data formats, providing flexibility in handling various types of geospatial data.
  • Performance
    Designed for high-performance rendering of maps, MapServer is capable of efficiently managing and serving large datasets.
  • Community Support
    MapServer has a robust community of users and developers who contribute to improvements and provide support, enhancing its development and troubleshooting resources.
  • Standards Compliance
    MapServer adheres to OGC standards such as WMS, WFS, and WCS, ensuring interoperability with other GIS systems and applications.

Possible disadvantages of Mapserver

  • Complex Setup
    The initial setup and configuration of MapServer can be complex and may require extensive knowledge of GIS systems and server management.
  • Limited User Interface
    MapServer primarily functions as an engine for serving maps over the web and does not provide a built-in graphical user interface, which can limit ease of use for non-technical users.
  • Documentation Quality
    While MapServer has extensive documentation, it can sometimes be inconsistent or outdated, making it challenging for new users to find accurate information.
  • Steeper Learning Curve
    Compared to some other GIS software, MapServer may have a steeper learning curve, particularly for users without prior experience in web mapping.

Esri ArcGIS videos

No Esri ArcGIS videos yet. You could help us improve this page by suggesting one.

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Mapserver videos

2019 - State of MapServer

More videos:

  • Review - Course Preview: Creating Geospatial Maps with MapServer and GDAL
  • Review - MapServer Project Status Report - Meet The Developers!

Category Popularity

0-100% (relative to Esri ArcGIS and Mapserver)
Maps
76 76%
24% 24
Mapping And GIS
75 75%
25% 25
Web Mapping
72 72%
28% 28
Maps & Navigation
66 66%
34% 34

User comments

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Reviews

These are some of the external sources and on-site user reviews we've used to compare Esri ArcGIS and Mapserver

Esri ArcGIS Reviews

6 Best GIS Software 2024
On the flip side, utilizing Esri software may necessitate a significant time investment to master its intricate features, and is considered costly when compared to more budget-friendly alternatives. Ultimately, Esri ArcGIS stands as a strong GIS and data visualization ecosystem. Nevertheless, it is essential to carefully weigh the pros and cons to determine if it aligns with...
Source: www.caliper.com

Mapserver Reviews

We have no reviews of Mapserver yet.
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Social recommendations and mentions

Based on our record, Mapserver seems to be more popular. It has been mentiond 3 times since March 2021. We are tracking product recommendations and mentions on various public social media platforms and blogs. They can help you identify which product is more popular and what people think of it.

Esri ArcGIS mentions (0)

We have not tracked any mentions of Esri ArcGIS yet. Tracking of Esri ArcGIS recommendations started around Mar 2021.

Mapserver mentions (3)

  • GIS Developer career path
    If you want to get into web GeoDjango is a popular option for the backend, but you could also learn to roll your own with flask/FastAPI. You also have some choice of JavaScript libraries for the frontend, [Leaflet]() and [OpenLayers]() are likely the most popular frameworks, but there are others (personally I'd recommend OpenLayers as it's the only one backed by OSGeo as far as I know). It also wouldn't hurt to... Source: over 2 years ago
  • Why do I need geoserver?
    GeoServer and MapServer both have full OGC services, WMS, WMTS, WFS, etc. They have caching and tiling. Accessing OGC services through a web server will require an OGC server. Source: over 3 years ago
  • Welcome to the MapServer subreddit!
    Welcome here, fellow MapServer user! 🗺️. Source: over 3 years ago

What are some alternatives?

When comparing Esri ArcGIS and Mapserver, you can also consider the following products

ArcGIS Pro - Explore ArcGIS Pro resources such as tutorials, videos, documentation, instructor-led classes & more. Find answers, build expertise and connect with the ArcGIS Pro community.

GeoServer - The reference implementation of the Open Geospatial Consortiums WFS and WMS services, GeoServer is...

Maptitude - Maptitude is a mapping software that is fitted with GIS features that avail maps and other forms of data regarding the surrounding geographical areas. Read more about Maptitude.

Google Earth Pro - Google Earth Pro allows you fly anywhere around the earth to view satellite imagery, maps, 3D building, and terrain, from galaxies in outer space to the canyons of the ocean.

Google Maps API - Choose Google Maps Platform to create immersive location experiences and make better business decisions with accurate real time data & dynamic imagery.

PostGIS - Open source spatial database