Best ArcGIS for Desktop Alternatives in 2025
Looking for alternatives to ArcGIS for Desktop? In this comparison, we take a closer look at ArcGIS for Desktop alongside similar software solutions including ArcGIS for Desktop, ArcGIS Desktop, SmartView, AutoCAD Open in Desktop and TeighaX.
Our detailed comparison table highlights key features, pricing, and performance of these leading solutions, empowering you to make an informed decision. Whether you're seeking robust functionality, user-friendly design, or cost-effective alternatives, explore how ArcGIS for Desktop, ArcGIS Desktop, SmartView, AutoCAD Open in Desktop and TeighaX stack up to find the perfect software for your goals.
Supported Data Formats
 ArcGIS for Desktop
|
.dwg, .dxf, .gdb, .shp, raster data types, vector formats |
 ArcGIS Desktop
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CAD, KML/KMZ, geodatabases, shapefiles, raster images, non-geospatial data formats |
 SmartView
|
2D and 3D CAD files, CSV, Excel, JSON, XML |
 AutoCAD Open in Desktop
|
.dwg files and a wide range of CAD file formats |
 TeighaX
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DGN, DWG, DXF, DWF, PDF and various CAD file formats |
Platform Compatibility & OS Support
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ArcGIS for Desktop
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Windows operating systems, Mac computers via Boot Camp or virtual machine software |
|
ArcGIS Desktop
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64-bit Windows operating system with dedicated GPU required |
|
SmartView
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Windows, Linux, macOS with cloud support and Active Directory integration |
|
AutoCAD Open in Desktop
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Windows and Mac platforms with Desktop offline functionality |
|
TeighaX
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Cross-platform: Windows, Linux, Mac OS; mobile apps for iOS and Android |
Licensing & Pricing Model
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ArcGIS for Desktop
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Both perpetual and subscription-based licensing options; expensive software license; academic pricing available |
|
ArcGIS Desktop
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Available as annual subscriptions or perpetual licenses; includes a 21-day free trial |
|
SmartView
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Pricing information unspecified; likely subscription-based; offers role-based access control |
|
AutoCAD Open in Desktop
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Subscription-based model with frequent updates and support |
|
TeighaX
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Affordable and flexible subscription-based licensing options |
Key Functionalities & Features
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ArcGIS for Desktop
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3D visualization, mapping and spatial data analysis tools with advanced analyses; steeper learning curve; integration with other Esri products |
|
ArcGIS Desktop
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Powerful geospatial analysis tools, robust data visualization capabilities, customizable workflows; resource-intensive |
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SmartView
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Powerful data visualization tool with customizable dashboards and visualizations; supports big data platforms; interactive collaboration tools; user-friendly interface |
|
AutoCAD Open in Desktop
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Professional-grade CAD software with advanced 3D modeling and drafting tools; strong collaboration features; stability issues reported |
|
TeighaX
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Advanced CAD functionalities including 2D/3D rendering, dimensioning tools with comprehensive APIs for developers; strong compatibility and cross-platform support |
Choosing the right software isn’t just about features. Size, license type, user ratings, and popularity also matter.
This quick comparison shows how ArcGIS for Desktop stacks up against ArcGIS for Desktop, ArcGIS Desktop, SmartView, AutoCAD Open in Desktop and TeighaX in these key areas—helping you find the best alternative for your needs.
Size
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ArcGIS for Desktop
|
|
|
ArcGIS Desktop
|
6MB |
|
SmartView
|
10.8MB |
|
AutoCAD Open in Desktop
|
|
|
TeighaX
|
51MB |
License
|
ArcGIS for Desktop
|
Commercial |
|
ArcGIS Desktop
|
Commercial |
|
SmartView
|
Commercial |
|
AutoCAD Open in Desktop
|
Commercial |
|
TeighaX
|
Open Source |