ArcGIS vs CARTO: What are the differences?

Introduction

In this Markdown code, we will highlight the key differences between ArcGIS and CARTO, two popular geospatial software platforms.

1. Data Manipulation and Analysis: ArcGIS offers a comprehensive suite of tools for data manipulation and analysis, allowing users to perform complex spatial analysis, geoprocessing, and spatial modeling. CARTO, on the other hand, provides a simpler and more intuitive interface for data manipulation, making it easier for non-technical users to work with geospatial data.

2. Map Design and Visualization: ArcGIS provides extensive options for map design and visualization, allowing users to create highly customized and visually appealing maps. It offers advanced cartographic capabilities, such as symbolization, labeling, and map composition. CARTO, while offering a more limited set of design options, excels in providing interactive and dynamic map visualizations, making it ideal for web-based mapping applications.

3. Data Sources and Integration: ArcGIS supports a wide range of data formats and can integrate with various data sources, including databases, file systems, and online services. It allows users to easily import, export, and manage data from different sources. CARTO, on the other hand, primarily focuses on web-based data sources and offers seamless integration with cloud-based services. It simplifies the process of importing and analyzing data from online sources and APIs.

4. Collaboration and Sharing: ArcGIS provides extensive collaboration and sharing capabilities, allowing users to share maps, apps, and data with others. It offers a range of collaboration tools, such as versioning, geodatabase replication, and web-based sharing portals. CARTO, on the other hand, emphasizes collaboration and sharing within a web-based environment. It offers simple and intuitive tools for sharing maps and data through the cloud, making it easy to collaborate with others in real-time.

5. Price and Licensing: ArcGIS is a commercial software platform that requires the purchase of licenses, which can be costly for organizations and individuals. It offers different licensing options based on the user's needs and requires annual maintenance fees. CARTO, on the other hand, offers a range of pricing plans, including free and affordable options for individuals and smaller organizations. It provides a more cost-effective solution for those with budget constraints.

6. Community and Support: ArcGIS has a large and active user community, with a wealth of resources, forums, and tutorials available for support. It has a well-established user base and a wide network of developers and GIS professionals. CARTO, while not as large as ArcGIS, has a growing community of users and provides support through forums, email, and documentation. It also offers a dedicated customer success team for enterprise customers.

In Summary, ArcGIS offers advanced data manipulation, extensive map design capabilities, and comprehensive collaboration tools, but comes at a higher cost. CARTO, on the other hand, provides a simpler and more intuitive interface, focuses on web-based data sources, offers interactive map visualizations, and provides affordable pricing options.