QGIS

With QGIS you can view, combine and analyse geographical data and create maps with your own layers.

Version 4.2 · Open source · Windows · macOS · Linux

Looking for an alternative to QGIS?Compare Google Earth Pro, Marble.Compare alternatives

You can put points, lines, planes and grid data together on a map. QGIS helps edit layers, analyze spatial data and compile a map for export. For Dutch projects you can use suitable open datasets, provided you check the coordinate system and the conditions of use. A project file often refers to separate data sources; so don't just copy the project when you move it. The recent and long supported release are different choices. Available plug-ins and existing projects can determine which range is suitable for you.

Which software suits you?

Compare QGIS with alternatives

Compare map software on your task: explore locations, analyze map layers or view routes and geographical data. A virtual globe is not a complete GIS environment. Check that your own card files and the data sources you need are supported.

Differences between QGIS and Google Earth Pro, Marble
Software	What can it do?	Platform and licence
QGISYou are viewing this app	You analyze and edit geodata with layers, projections and GIS tools. That requires more expertise than looking at a normal globe.	Windows, macOS, LinuxOpen source
Google Earth ProView this alternative	You explore the world with satellite images, terrain and your own markings. You use this mainly for geographical exploration and presentation of locations.	Windows, macOSFreeware
MarbleView this alternative	You use a virtual globe and maps with different views. This fits with geographical exploration without setting up a full GIS workplace.	Windows, macOS, LinuxOpen source

Choose an alternative to explore its features, system requirements and download options.

Who is it for?

You use QGIS for maps with your own data, spatial analyses or study projects. For only an address search, a regular map app is easier.

Getting started

Choose the current or long supported series via QGIS. Check the required plug-ins in advance and save the project together with the corresponding databases.

Privacy

Local layers stay on your computer. For online card services and geocoding, requests are sent to the selected provider; this may include locations or search terms.

Good to know

A project file often contains references to external data. Take those data sources with you when you move the project to another computer.

Please note

Check the coordinate system before interpreting distances or surfaces. A misset projection may misplace data or give a misleading result.

Advantages

You can combine different geographical layers.
You can make maps and export them.
You have extensive analysis functions and extensions.

Things to consider

Coordinate systems require basic knowledge.
Projects may depend on external data sources.
Plug-ins are not directly compatible with every release.

Download QGIS

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Official download page

Provider’s website · qgis.org

Download QGIS

Version history

4.2 3 Jul 2026

The current main series is QGIS 4.2; in addition, LTR 3.44 is offered separately.

Choose your range based on project and plug incompatibility. Save a project copy and check linked data sources before switching series.

Report a new version

Our verdict

QGIS is strong when you want to do more than view a map. The quality of your result depends very much on the data, projection and settings you use.

Choose QGIS if you want to combine, edit or analyze geographical layers, not just look up an address. Start with data from which you can check origin and location. A second layer must connect to known points before you draw any conclusions. Give the final card an appropriate scale and legend. The many analysis options add value only when projection, input and meaning of your data fit the demand.