Software Alternatives, Accelerators & Startups

QuarkXPress VS ArcReader

Compare QuarkXPress VS ArcReader and see what are their differences

QuarkXPress logo QuarkXPress

Fully-integrated graphic design and layout software

ArcReader logo ArcReader

ArcReader is a free, easy-to-use desktop mapping application that allows you to view, explore and print maps & globes. View high-quality interactive maps authored by ArcMap and published with the ArcGIS Publisher extension.
  • QuarkXPress Landing page
    Landing page //
    2023-10-04
  • ArcReader Landing page
    Landing page //
    2023-02-19

QuarkXPress features and specs

  • Versatility
    QuarkXPress is a versatile tool that supports a variety of formats, allowing users to create layouts for print, web, and digital publishing within a single platform.
  • Advanced Typography
    It offers advanced typography tools and options, such as OpenType features, that provide detailed control over the aesthetics and readability of text.
  • High-Quality Output
    QuarkXPress offers high-quality output capabilities, making it ideal for professional design projects that require precision and quality, such as magazines and books.
  • No Subscription Model
    Unlike some competitors, QuarkXPress does not operate on a subscription model, offering a one-time purchase, which can be cost-effective over time for users.
  • Cross-Platform Integration
    The software is compatible with both macOS and Windows, making it accessible to a wider range of users and providing integration capabilities with other software.

Possible disadvantages of QuarkXPress

  • Steep Learning Curve
    QuarkXPress has a steep learning curve due to its comprehensive feature set, which might be overwhelming for beginners or users transitioning from simpler tools.
  • High Initial Cost
    The upfront cost of purchasing QuarkXPress can be high, which may be a barrier for freelancers or smaller businesses compared to subscription-based models.
  • Less Popularity
    It is less popular than some competitors, resulting in a smaller community and fewer readily available tutorials or resources online for troubleshooting and learning.
  • Lagging Features
    Some users have reported that new features in QuarkXPress can lag behind those offered by competitors, potentially affecting the ability to utilize the latest design trends.
  • Infrequent Updates
    Updates and new versions aren't as frequent, which might be a concern for users looking for the latest tools and improvements in design software.

ArcReader features and specs

  • Free to Use
    ArcReader is a free software tool provided by Esri which allows users to view, explore, and print maps created in ArcGIS.
  • User-Friendly Interface
    Designed for non-GIS users, ArcReader features a simple and intuitive interface that makes it easy for users to navigate and interact with maps.
  • View Published Maps
    Users can view high-quality, interactive maps that have been published by GIS professionals using ArcGIS Publisher.
  • Robust Map Interaction
    ArcReader allows users to zoom, pan, and query spatial data, providing a reasonably interactive experience without needing advanced GIS skills.
  • Offline Use
    ArcReader does not require an internet connection, which allows users to view maps in locations where internet access is unavailable.

Possible disadvantages of ArcReader

  • Limited Functionality
    ArcReader is primarily a map viewing tool and lacks advanced GIS capabilities such as map editing or spatial analysis.
  • Dependency on ArcGIS Publisher
    Maps must be published by ArcGIS Publisher for them to be viewable in ArcReader, making it dependent on other Esri products for map creation.
  • No Customization
    Users cannot create or customize their own maps; functionality is limited to viewing maps published by others.
  • Lacks Online Sharing Capabilities
    ArcReader does not offer features for sharing maps online or collaborating with other users through web-based platforms.
  • Outdated Technology
    As a more traditional desktop application, ArcReader may not integrate well with modern, web-based GIS solutions, and its features have seen limited updates compared to other Esri products.

Analysis of QuarkXPress

Overall verdict

  • QuarkXPress is a powerful tool for professional designers and publishers who require advanced desktop publishing capabilities. However, its suitability may depend on specific user needs and industry standards. While it offers many professional features, it also comes with a steep learning curve and a higher price point compared to some alternatives.

Why this product is good

  • QuarkXPress is considered good due to its robust features for desktop publishing. It offers a comprehensive set of tools for page layout, graphic design, typography, and digital publishing. The software is known for its precision in design and the ability to handle large and complex documents. It integrates well with various extensions and supports a wide range of file formats.

Recommended for

    QuarkXPress is recommended for professional graphic designers, desktop publishers, marketing professionals, and anyone involved in media production who needs advanced, high-quality design capabilities. It is particularly suited for those who need to create print and digital publications such as brochures, magazines, eBooks, and interactive content.

QuarkXPress videos

QuarkXPress 2018 for Mac - Review and Demo

More videos:

  • Review - QuarkXPress 2019 is Here!
  • Review - Switching to InDesign from QuarkXPress with Lori Miskoff on Q2ID - Full Interview
  • Review - QuarkXPress Review: QuarkXpress is Solid Publishing Software
  • Review - What's new in QuarkXPress 2018 โ€“ 5 min overview

ArcReader videos

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

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Category Popularity

0-100% (relative to QuarkXPress and ArcReader)
Design Tools
92 92%
8% 8
Graphic Design Software
88 88%
12% 12
Image Marketplace
82 82%
18% 18
Office & Productivity
100 100%
0% 0

User comments

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Reviews

These are some of the external sources and on-site user reviews we've used to compare QuarkXPress and ArcReader

QuarkXPress Reviews

10 Best Adobe Indesign Alternatives in 2025
In 2025, the market is brimming with high-quality desktop publishing tools that cater to a wide range of design needs, budgets, and skill levels. From user-friendly options like Appy Pie Design and Microsoft Publisher to professional-grade platforms like QuarkXPress and Affinity Publisher, these alternatives provide unique features that can suit both beginners and seasoned...
Source: www.appypie.com

ArcReader Reviews

We have no reviews of ArcReader yet.
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What are some alternatives?

When comparing QuarkXPress and ArcReader, you can also consider the following products

Adobe InDesign - Adobe InDesign is a desktop publishing software application.

Microsoft Publisher - Microsoft Publisher is an entry-level desktop publishing solution.

iBooks Author - iBooks Author, free from the Mac App store, allows you to create beautiful Multi-Touch textbooks โ€” and just about any other kind of book.

Scribus - Scribus is a desktop publishing (DTP) application.

Marq - Marq (formerly Lucidpress) is a web-based design and layout application that enables anyone to create beautiful creatives

Wondershare PDFelement - All-in-one PDF editor