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Generic Mapping Tools vs GRASS: catalog facts
Generic Mapping ToolsGRASS
Free

Free and open source under the GNU Lesser General Public License.

Free

Free and open source, with community and commercial support available.

Windows, macOS, Linux, Command line Windows, macOS, Linux
  • Processes geographic and Cartesian data
  • Includes more than 30 map projections and transformations
  • Broad raster, vector and imagery processing
  • Temporal framework for time series analysis
  • Requires supporting geographic data for features such as coastlines and political boundaries
  • Steep learning curve for newcomers
  • Geared to analysis rather than simple map viewing
Downloadable app Downloadable app
Open source Open source
License: LGPL-3.0-or-later License not stated
No account needed No account needed
Works offline Works offline

Checked October 8, 2026

Checked September 24, 2026

Catalog facts only. Anything “not stated” is unconfirmed. Check full listings for details.