While Esri’s ArcGIS Collector (now Field Maps) requires an enterprise license and continuous cloud synchronization, CarryMap provides a lightweight, one-time publishing alternative. It is ideal for small teams, independent researchers, or organizations operating in remote regions where cellular data is unreliable. With CarryMap Builder 3.12, a user can pre-load entire counties or national park boundaries onto a smartphone without paying for ongoing server access.
| Alternative | Best for | Offline support | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | ArcGIS Collector (now Field Maps) | Enterprise users with ArcGIS Online | Yes | | QGIS + QField | Open-source enthusiasts | Yes | | GeoJot+ | Field data collection with photos | Yes | | Map Plus (iOS/Android) | Casual users with shapefiles | Yes | download carrymap builder 3.12 for arcgis downloadshp.com
Finding older or specific versions of extensions that match your current ArcGIS environment (like 10.x versions) can be difficult on official manufacturer sites. While Esri’s ArcGIS Collector (now Field Maps) requires
CarryMap Builder is a powerful extension for that allows users to export their cartographic projects into a unique .cmf (CarryMap File) format. | Alternative | Best for | Offline support
Launch ArcMap. You should now see a new toolbar. Click on the “License” button. If you do not have a commercial license, select “Trial” (30 days) or “Freeware” (limited to 50 features per layer).