Best LiDAR Software for Linux of 2025

CloudCompare is a free and open-source software designed for processing 3D point clouds and triangular meshes. Initially created to facilitate the comparison of dense 3D point clouds, it has now transformed into a versatile solution for a wide range of 3D data processing activities. The application provides a variety of functionalities, including projection techniques, registration methods such as Iterative Closest Point (ICP), and calculations of distances between both clouds and meshes, along with statistical analysis, segmentation, and the estimation of geometric features. Users are able to manage multiple scalar fields associated with each point cloud, implement algorithms for smoothing and gradient evaluation, and visualize their data using dynamic color rendering options. The interactive tools included in the software make it easy to segment, rotate, translate, and measure 3D objects. CloudCompare is capable of supporting a wide array of input and output formats and is available for Windows, macOS, and Linux operating systems. Additionally, the software incorporates a plugin system that allows users to enhance its functionality further, making it a highly adaptable tool for 3D data analysis and visualization. With its growing community, users can benefit from continuous updates and a wealth of shared resources.

SenseAi harnesses the power of artificial intelligence to assess and track machine performance through the analysis of vibration and acoustic data. This innovative approach empowers manufacturers to swiftly pinpoint problems or inefficiencies in their production processes, enabling them to make informed, data-backed decisions aimed at enhancing overall efficiency. By utilizing SenseAi's plug-and-play, AI-driven monitoring system, manufacturers can unlock the full potential of their manufacturing operations. Designed with a convenient magnetic attachment, SenseAi effortlessly adheres to machines, facilitating performance monitoring with minimal disruption to existing workflows. Equipped with vibration, acoustics, and LIDAR sensors, the system delivers a thorough evaluation of machine performance. Users benefit from real-time monitoring and data analysis via 4G cellular connectivity, which ensures they receive immediate notifications regarding machine downtime. Additionally, the capability to monitor multiple facilities or production lines allows for a more comprehensive approach to operational oversight. Elevate your manufacturing processes through the continuous tracking of machine utilization and performance, ensuring that inefficiencies are swiftly addressed.

LidarView, an open-source platform created by Kitware, facilitates real-time visualization, recording, and processing of 3D LiDAR data. This platform, which is built on the foundation of ParaView, excels in rendering extensive point clouds and provides functionalities like 3D visualization of time-stamped LiDAR returns, a spreadsheet inspector for attributes such as timestamp and azimuth, and the capability to showcase multiple data frames at once. Users have the flexibility to input data from live sensor streams or from recorded .pcap files, allowing them to apply 3D transformations to point clouds and manage various subsets of laser data effectively. LidarView is compatible with a diverse range of sensors, including those from Velodyne, Hesai, Robosense, Livox, and Leishen, making it possible to visualize live streams as well as replay previously recorded data. The platform is also equipped with sophisticated algorithms for Simultaneous Localization and Mapping (SLAM), which aids in precise environmental reconstruction and sensor localization. Additionally, it features AI and machine learning capabilities that enhance scene classification, offering users a comprehensive tool for advanced data analysis and visualization. This makes LidarView a versatile option for researchers and professionals seeking to leverage LiDAR technology in their work.

GRASS GIS, which stands for Geographic Resources Analysis Support System, is a powerful, free, and open-source suite of Geographic Information System (GIS) tools designed for the management and analysis of geospatial data, including capabilities for image processing, map production, spatial modeling, and visualization. This versatile software accommodates various data types, such as raster and vector, facilitating sophisticated modeling and data handling, as well as imagery processing and time series analysis through its Python API, which is particularly well-suited for extensive analyses. Compatible with multiple operating systems like OS X, Windows, and Linux, GRASS GIS can be utilized via a graphical user interface or seamlessly integrated with other applications, including QGIS. The software features an extensive library of over 350 modules aimed at tasks such as rendering maps, manipulating raster and vector data, processing multispectral imagery, and effectively managing and storing spatial datasets. Widely adopted in both academic and commercial environments, it also serves the needs of governmental organizations, showcasing its versatility and reliability in various geospatial contexts. The continual enhancements and community support further solidify GRASS GIS as a crucial tool for professionals working in the field of geospatial analysis.

Whitebox Geospatial Inc. specializes in cutting-edge geospatial software that leverages open-source technology, offering a comprehensive array of tools aimed at enhancing geospatial data analysis. Their primary product, WhiteboxTools Open Core (WbT), boasts an impressive collection of over 475 tools designed to handle various forms of geospatial data, including raster, vector, and LiDAR formats. WbT is crafted for easy integration with other GIS platforms, such as QGIS and ArcGIS, which enhances their analytical functions significantly. Featuring robust parallel computing capabilities, it operates independently of additional libraries like GDAL and can be accessed through scripting environments, making it an adaptable option for geospatial experts. For those in need of more advanced features, Whitebox provides the Whitebox Toolset Extension (WTE), a premium add-on that contributes over 75 additional tools specifically for intricate geospatial data processing. Furthermore, Whitebox Workflows for Python (WbW) empowers geospatial professionals by offering advanced geoprocessing options that elevate their analytical workflows to new heights. This extensive suite of tools is designed to meet the diverse needs of users in the geospatial field, ensuring that they have the resources necessary for comprehensive data analysis.

You can create, edit, visualize, analyze, and publish geospatial data across various platforms including Windows, Mac, Linux, BSD, and mobile devices. This functionality is available for use on desktops, servers, web browsers, and as developer libraries. QGIS, a user-friendly and open-source Geographic Information System (GIS), operates under the GNU General Public License. It is recognized as an official project of the Open Source Geospatial Foundation (OSGeo). The software is compatible with operating systems such as Linux, Unix, Mac OSX, Windows, and Android, and it supports a wide array of vector, raster, and database formats along with their respective functionalities. QGIS offers an ever-expanding set of features through both core functions and plugins. Users can visualize, manage, edit, and analyze their data while also creating printable maps. Additionally, we gather case studies that showcase how individuals worldwide utilize QGIS in their GIS projects. Furthermore, users can seamlessly view combinations of vector and raster data in both 2D and 3D formats, using different projections without needing to convert to a standardized internal format. This flexibility makes QGIS an invaluable tool for professionals and enthusiasts alike.

VeloView is a versatile open-source platform tailored for the real-time visualization and analysis of 3D LiDAR data obtained from various Velodyne HDL sensor models, such as the HDL-64E, HDL-32E, VLP-32, VLP-16, Puck, Puck LITE, Puck Hi-Res, Ultra Alpha, Alpha Prime, Velarray, Velabit, and Veladome. This application allows users to either visualize live data streams or review previously recorded data archived in .pcap files, while also offering the functionality to record live streams for future examination. With tools designed for displaying, selecting, and measuring data from captured points, VeloView supports custom color maps influenced by factors such as intensity-of-return, time, distance, azimuth, dual return type, and laser ID. Users have the option to export data in CSV format as XYZ coordinates or capture screenshots of the point cloud visualization. Recent enhancements have added features like compatibility with Velarray sensors, the ability to operate multiple sensors concurrently, and independent transformation of live data for each sensor, thereby expanding its usability and versatility. Overall, VeloView stands out as a powerful tool for professionals working with 3D LiDAR technology.