Side by side
NetSpot vs Vistumbler
Both stand on wi-fi analyzer software. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan AndroidiPhoneMac+1
NetSpot covers nearby-network inspection, wireless surveys, heatmaps, and predictive planning, with desktop offline use after activation. Its free edition is limited to macOS and Windows, and the seven-day PRO trial has an application requirement.
Visit NetSpot Free plan AndroidWindows
Vistumbler offers scanning, mapping, and export tools at no cost, with a stable Windows release and a separate experimental Android-capable preview. Review its location-data behavior and use it only for authorized analysis.
Visit VistumblerThe facts
| NetSpot | Vistumbler | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Android, iPhone, Mac, Windows | Android, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | NetSpot Pro: $199, paid once | Free or on request |
| Plans published | 8 | 1 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | netspotapp.com | vistumbler.net |
| On wi-fi analyzer software | #4 of 29 | #8 of 29 |
NetSpot: what it does well
- More than 20 heatmap visualizations.
- Supports predictive and multi-floor network planning.
- Exports survey data as PDF or CSV.
- Desktop editions can run offline after activation.
- Survey and location data are processed locally, according to NetSpot.
What to know first
- Free edition is for macOS and Windows only.
- PRO trial requires a corporate email and explanation.
- PRO limits projects to 50 zones and 50 snapshots per zone.
- Optional usage statistics may be sent unless disabled.
Vistumbler: what it does well
- Free and open-source under GPLv2.
- Exports scan data in KML and GPX.
- Supports live Google Earth tracking and audio alerts.
- Official downloads include a portable ZIP.
- MAUI preview includes Android background scanning.
What to know first
- Stable release requires Windows 10 or 11 and .NET Framework 4.
- Software can collect GPS and WiFi location data.
- MAUI preview may have missing features and bugs.
- Project advises disconnecting from access points for best scanning.
Alternatives to NetSpot Alternatives to Vistumbler The whole list