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QGIS VS Google Earth Pro

Compare QGIS VS Google Earth Pro and see what are their differences

QGIS logo QGIS

Spatial visualization and decision-making tools for everyone

Google Earth Pro logo Google Earth Pro

Google Earth Pro allows you fly anywhere around the earth to view satellite imagery, maps, 3D building, and terrain, from galaxies in outer space to the canyons of the ocean.
  • QGIS Landing page
    Landing page //
    2025-01-05

open source

  • Google Earth Pro Landing page
    Landing page //
    2021-09-14

QGIS features and specs

  • Open Source
    QGIS is open-source software, meaning it is free to use and the source code is accessible to anyone. This allows for flexibility in customization and encourages community-driven enhancements.
  • Cross-Platform
    QGIS runs on Windows, macOS, Linux, and Android, making it accessible on almost any operating system.
  • Extensive Plugin Support
    The software supports a wide range of plugins that enhance its functionality, allowing users to add specialized tools and automate tasks.
  • Active Community
    QGIS has a vibrant community of users and developers who contribute to forums, documentation, and plugin development, ensuring the software is continuously improving.
  • Comprehensive GIS Features
    It offers a wide array of tools for geospatial analysis, data visualization, cartographic presentation, and data management.
  • Frequent Updates
    QGIS is regularly updated, meaning new features and bug fixes are continually released, keeping the software current and reliable.

Possible disadvantages of QGIS

  • Learning Curve
    For new users unfamiliar with GIS software, QGIS can be daunting to learn due to its vast array of features and tools.
  • Variable Document Quality
    While there is extensive documentation available, the quality and completeness can vary, making it sometimes challenging to find concise and accurate information.
  • Performance Issues
    QGIS may experience performance lags when working with very large datasets or complex processing tasks.
  • Inconsistent Interface
    Due to its open-source nature and varied contributions, the user interface and experience might be inconsistent across different versions or plugins.
  • Limited Support
    Without formalized support structures typical of commercial software, users often rely heavily on community forums for troubleshooting.

Google Earth Pro features and specs

  • High-Resolution Imagery
    Google Earth Pro offers high-resolution satellite imagery, allowing users to view detailed maps and landscapes from around the world.
  • Historical Imagery
    Users can access historical satellite images, which can be useful for analyzing changes over time in specific locations.
  • GIS Data Import
    Supports the import of Geographic Information System (GIS) data, enabling users to overlay their own data on the map.
  • Measurement Tools
    Provides advanced measurement tools such as polygon area measurement and distance measurement, useful for land surveying and planning.
  • Free of Charge
    Despite its advanced features, Google Earth Pro is available for free, making it accessible to a wide range of users.

Possible disadvantages of Google Earth Pro

  • Data Privacy Concerns
    The use of Google services often involves data collection, which can lead to privacy concerns for some users.
  • System Requirements
    Requires a relatively powerful computer to run smoothly, including significant RAM and a robust graphics processor.
  • Limited Real-Time Data
    Although highly detailed, the satellite imagery is not real-time and may be outdated by several months to a few years.
  • Steep Learning Curve
    The software can be complex for beginners, requiring time to learn how to use all its features effectively.
  • Internet Dependency
    A reliable internet connection is needed to access and stream the high-resolution images and data.

QGIS videos

Demo 1 - What is GIS, and why use QGIS?

More videos:

  • Review - The Most Popular QGIS Plugin😎(and Why You Need It)
  • Review - QGIS Release: 3.40 review

Google Earth Pro videos

Using Google Earth Pro

More videos:

  • Demo - Google Earth Pro Demo
  • Review - Google Earth Pro Review!

Category Popularity

0-100% (relative to QGIS and Google Earth Pro)
Mapping And GIS
8 8%
92% 92
Maps
6 6%
94% 94
Web Mapping
5 5%
95% 95
Geospatial Data
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 QGIS and Google Earth Pro

QGIS Reviews

Top 10 GIS Software Tools And Solutions
QGIS stands as one of the most significant community-driven efforts in the history of GIS, showcasing the power of open-source innovation. QGIS 2 set a high standard, and full support has now shifted to QGIS 3, continuing its legacy of excellence. Despite being completely open-source, QGIS rivals the best commercial GIS software with its extensive features.
Source: em360tech.com
30 Best GIS Software Applications [Rankings]
QGIS 2 was one of the largest community efforts and open source progress in the history of GIS. And because it was community-driven, it became wildly innovative and inventive. Even though QGIS 2 is completely open source, it still rivals the best. But now, full support has shifted to QGIS 3.

Google Earth Pro Reviews

We have no reviews of Google Earth Pro yet.
Be the first one to post

Social recommendations and mentions

Based on our record, Google Earth Pro seems to be more popular. It has been mentiond 1 time since March 2021. We are tracking product recommendations and mentions on various public social media platforms and blogs. They can help you identify which product is more popular and what people think of it.

QGIS mentions (0)

We have not tracked any mentions of QGIS yet. Tracking of QGIS recommendations started around Jan 2025.

Google Earth Pro mentions (1)

  • Several macOS Monterey Features Unavailable on Intel-Based Macs
    Meanwhile, I can load up google.com/earth/ just fine. Source: almost 4 years ago

What are some alternatives?

When comparing QGIS and Google Earth Pro, you can also consider the following products

Aakashe - Aakashe is revolutionizing aerial data with instant, high-quality drone imagery. Our subscription model serves infrastructure, urban planning, and real estate, offering seamless integration, enhanced security, and cost-effective solutions.

OSGeo - QGIS is a desktop geographic information system, or GIS.

Hexagon - Hexagon - Box Version

Google Maps - Find local businesses, view maps and get driving directions in Google Maps.

ArcGIS - ArcGIS software is a data analysis, cloud-based mapping platform that allows users to customize maps and see real-time data ranging from logistics support to overall mapping analysis.

Mapbox - An open source mapping platform for custom designed maps. Our APIs and SDKs are the building blocks to integrate location into any mobile or web app.