List of the Top 7 LiDAR Software for Mac in 2025

CloudCompare is an open-source software that offers free access for users to process 3D point clouds and triangular meshes. Originally developed to enable the comparison of dense 3D point clouds, it has evolved into a comprehensive tool suitable for various 3D data processing tasks. The software includes an array of features, such as projection techniques, registration methods like Iterative Closest Point (ICP), and the ability to calculate distances between clouds and meshes, alongside options for statistical analysis, segmentation, and assessing geometric properties. Users can manage numerous scalar fields linked to each point cloud, apply algorithms for smoothing and gradient assessment, and visualize their data through dynamic color rendering capabilities. The interactive tools available in CloudCompare facilitate the segmentation, rotation, translation, and measurement of 3D objects with ease. Furthermore, it supports a diverse range of input and output formats and is compatible with Windows, macOS, and Linux operating systems. The software also boasts a robust plugin system, allowing users to further expand its capabilities, making it an exceptionally flexible tool for 3D data analysis and visualization. As the community continues to grow, users enjoy the benefits of ongoing updates, along with a rich pool of shared resources that enhance their experience. This collaborative environment fosters innovation and improvement among users, ensuring that CloudCompare remains at the forefront of 3D processing technologies.

LidarView, an open-source initiative developed by Kitware, enables users to visualize, record, and process 3D LiDAR data in real-time. Built upon the ParaView framework, this platform excels at rendering large point clouds and includes features such as 3D visualization of time-stamped LiDAR returns, a spreadsheet inspector for various attributes like timestamp and azimuth, and the ability to display multiple data frames simultaneously. It allows for data input from both live sensor streams and recorded .pcap files, giving users the ability to perform 3D transformations on point clouds and manage different subsets of laser data with ease. LidarView supports a wide variety of sensors, including those from well-known manufacturers such as Velodyne, Hesai, Robosense, Livox, and Leishen, enabling the visualization of live data streams or the replay of previously captured information. The platform integrates advanced algorithms for Simultaneous Localization and Mapping (SLAM), facilitating accurate environmental reconstruction and sensor localization. Furthermore, it incorporates AI and machine learning functionalities that improve scene classification, providing users with an extensive toolkit for sophisticated data analysis and visualization. As a result, LidarView stands out as an adaptable solution for both researchers and professionals eager to harness the capabilities of LiDAR technology in their respective fields, ultimately enhancing their project outcomes and insights.

GRASS GIS, an acronym for Geographic Resources Analysis Support System, is a robust, free, and open-source collection of Geographic Information System (GIS) tools tailored for the management and analysis of geospatial information, offering features for image processing, map creation, spatial modeling, and visualization. This adaptable software supports a variety of data formats, including both raster and vector data, enabling complex modeling and data manipulation, alongside imagery processing and time series analysis through its user-friendly Python API, which is especially effective for large-scale assessments. GRASS GIS is compatible with several operating systems, including OS X, Windows, and Linux, and can be accessed via a graphical user interface or integrated effortlessly with other software like QGIS. The platform boasts an extensive array of over 350 modules designed for diverse tasks, such as map rendering, raster and vector data manipulation, multispectral imagery processing, and the efficient management and archiving of spatial datasets. Its widespread adoption in academic and commercial sectors, as well as its utility for governmental agencies, underscores its adaptability and dependability across a range of geospatial applications. Continuous updates and strong community backing further enhance GRASS GIS, reinforcing its position as an indispensable resource for professionals engaged in geospatial analysis, while also fostering an environment for collaborative improvements.

Whitebox Geospatial Inc. is a leader in innovative geospatial software that utilizes open-source technology, providing a wide range of tools focused on improving geospatial data analysis. Their flagship product, WhiteboxTools Open Core (WbT), features an extensive library of over 475 tools capable of processing various types of geospatial data, including raster, vector, and LiDAR formats. Designed for seamless integration with popular GIS platforms like QGIS and ArcGIS, WbT significantly enhances analytical capabilities. Its strong parallel computing features allow it to function independently from additional libraries such as GDAL, and it can be utilized through different scripting environments, making it a versatile choice for professionals in the geospatial sector. For users seeking advanced functionalities, the Whitebox Toolset Extension (WTE) offers more than 75 extra tools tailored for complex geospatial data processing. Additionally, Whitebox Workflows for Python (WbW) provides geospatial analysts with sophisticated geoprocessing capabilities that elevate their analytical tasks. This comprehensive suite of tools is specifically designed to accommodate the varied requirements of users within the geospatial industry, ensuring they have all necessary resources for effective data analysis. With such a robust offering, Whitebox Geospatial Inc. continues to push the boundaries of geospatial technology, enabling professionals to achieve superior results in their projects.

Global Mapper® is an advanced GIS software that caters to both beginners and experienced geospatial experts by offering an extensive array of spatial data processing capabilities. Its unparalleled support for a multitude of data formats sets it apart in the industry. The program features a user-friendly interface, allowing users to navigate its functions effortlessly and become proficient quickly. Organizations, regardless of their size, often realize substantial benefits from their investment through enhanced data processing efficiency, precise map creation, and streamlined spatial data management. Users can export vector, raster, and elevation data across nearly every available file format, including numerous proprietary types. Additionally, data can be exported in smaller, more manageable files, and users have the option to crop the export area to a specific region or to encompass the entire visible screen. This versatility makes Global Mapper an essential tool for effective geospatial analysis and management.

You have the ability to generate, modify, visualize, analyze, and publish geospatial data on multiple platforms such as Windows, Mac, Linux, BSD, and mobile devices. This capability is applicable to desktops, servers, web browsers, and can also function as developer libraries. QGIS, which is a user-friendly open-source Geographic Information System (GIS), operates under the GNU General Public License and is recognized as an official project of the Open Source Geospatial Foundation (OSGeo). The software is compatible with various operating systems, including Linux, Unix, Mac OSX, Windows, and Android, and it accommodates a diverse range of vector, raster, and database formats along with their functionalities. With QGIS, users benefit from an expanding array of features offered through both core functions and plugins. They can manage, visualize, edit, and analyze their data efficiently while also generating printable maps as needed. In addition, we compile case studies that highlight how users around the globe implement QGIS in their GIS endeavors. Moreover, users can effortlessly visualize combinations of vector and raster data in both 2D and 3D formats, utilizing different projections without the necessity of converting to a standardized internal format. This level of flexibility and functionality positions QGIS as an essential tool for both professionals and hobbyists in the field of geospatial analysis. Ultimately, the software fosters collaboration and innovation among users by providing a robust platform for managing geographic information.

VeloView is an adaptable open-source platform designed specifically for the real-time visualization and analysis of 3D LiDAR data collected from a range of Velodyne HDL sensor models, including but not limited to the HDL-64E, HDL-32E, VLP-32, VLP-16, Puck, Puck LITE, Puck Hi-Res, Ultra Alpha, Alpha Prime, Velarray, Velabit, and Veladome. This software allows users to visualize live data streams or access previously recorded data stored in .pcap files, in addition to providing the capability to record live streams for later review. Equipped with tools for displaying, selecting, and measuring data from captured points, VeloView supports customizable color maps based on various criteria such as intensity-of-return, time, distance, azimuth, dual return type, and laser ID. Additionally, users can export data in CSV format as XYZ coordinates or take screenshots of the point cloud visualizations for their records. Recent updates have introduced features like support for Velarray sensors, the ability to run multiple sensors at once, and independent transformation of live data for each sensor, significantly broadening its functionality and range of application. The combination of these capabilities makes VeloView an exceptional resource for professionals engaged in 3D LiDAR technology, ultimately enhancing their analytical and visualization tasks. As such, it is increasingly recognized as an essential tool in the toolkit of those who work with cutting-edge LiDAR systems.