Side by side
Google Earth Pro vs MapServer
Both stand on gis software. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan LinuxMacWindows
Choose Google Earth Pro if you want a free desktop globe viewer with historical imagery and GIS data import and export. Check the Linux distribution caveat if applicable, and use version 7.3.3 or newer for Street View within Earth Pro.
Visit Google Earth Pro Free plan APILinuxMac+3
MapServer provides a broad set of geospatial data, standards, and cartography capabilities in a free engine. Its security guidance makes configuration of mapfile access and the MAP parameter important for public servers.
Visit MapServerThe facts
| Google Earth Pro | MapServer | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Linux, Mac, Windows | API, Linux, Mac, Self-hosted, Web, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Free or on request |
| Plans published | 1 | 1 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | earth.google.com | mapserver.org |
| On gis software | #9 of 64 | #13 of 64 |
Google Earth Pro: what it does well
- Shows satellite imagery, 3D terrain, buildings and Street View.
- Provides historical imagery and a timeline of available dates.
- Imports and exports GIS data.
- Imports CSV location data and supported vector formats.
- Loads GPS tracks, waypoints and routes.
What to know first
- It is a desktop app for Windows, Mac and Linux.
- Linux support beyond recent Ubuntu and Fedora is not guaranteed.
- Street View requires version 7.3.3 or newer.
MapServer: what it does well
- Free, open-source geographic data rendering engine.
- Supports raster formats through GDAL.
- Supports vector sources through OGR.
- Applies projections on the fly through PROJ.
- Suite includes MapCache and TinyOWS.
What to know first
- Documentation recommends restricting mapfile access on public servers.
- April 2021 releases addressed a MAP parameter security flaw.
Alternatives to Google Earth Pro Alternatives to MapServer The whole list