Quick Overview
- 1#1: Tobii Pro Lab - Comprehensive software for eye tracking data acquisition, analysis, and visualization from Tobii eye trackers.
- 2#2: EyeLink - Gold-standard high-precision eye tracking system for scientific research with sub-millimeter accuracy.
- 3#3: Pupil Core - Open-source eye tracking platform supporting real-time gaze mapping and custom research applications.
- 4#4: iMotions - Integrated behavioral research platform combining eye tracking with biometrics, facial coding, and EEG.
- 5#5: SmartEye Pro - Robust eye tracking software for automotive safety, research, and media consumption analysis.
- 6#6: Gazepoint - Affordable eye tracking software with real-time visualization for GP3 hardware in research and UX.
- 7#7: RealEye - Remote webcam-based eye tracking platform for online user testing and heatmaps.
- 8#8: GazeRecorder - Free webcam eye tracking tool that overlays gaze on screen recordings for analysis.
- 9#9: WebGazer - JavaScript library for real-time, calibration-free eye tracking using webcams in browsers.
- 10#10: PyGaze - Open-source Python toolbox for creating and running eye tracking experiments.
We evaluated tools based on accuracy, versatility, ease of use, and value, prioritizing those that balance cutting-edge capabilities with practicality to serve researchers, developers, and professionals effectively
Comparison Table
Understanding the differences in eye tracker software is key for leveraging these tools effectively in research, design, or clinical settings. This comparison table evaluates popular options such as Tobii Pro Lab, EyeLink, Pupil Core, iMotions, and SmartEye Pro, highlighting their unique features, performance, and ideal use cases. Readers will gain clear insights to select the right software for their specific goals and requirements.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Tobii Pro Lab Comprehensive software for eye tracking data acquisition, analysis, and visualization from Tobii eye trackers. | specialized | 9.7/10 | 9.8/10 | 8.5/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 2 | EyeLink Gold-standard high-precision eye tracking system for scientific research with sub-millimeter accuracy. | specialized | 9.4/10 | 9.8/10 | 8.0/10 | 8.5/10 |
| 3 | Pupil Core Open-source eye tracking platform supporting real-time gaze mapping and custom research applications. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 4 | iMotions Integrated behavioral research platform combining eye tracking with biometrics, facial coding, and EEG. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 5 | SmartEye Pro Robust eye tracking software for automotive safety, research, and media consumption analysis. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 9.1/10 | 6.8/10 | 7.4/10 |
| 6 | Gazepoint Affordable eye tracking software with real-time visualization for GP3 hardware in research and UX. | specialized | 7.8/10 | 7.5/10 | 7.2/10 | 8.5/10 |
| 7 | RealEye Remote webcam-based eye tracking platform for online user testing and heatmaps. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.2/10 | 8.8/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 8 | GazeRecorder Free webcam eye tracking tool that overlays gaze on screen recordings for analysis. | other | 7.4/10 | 7.0/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.8/10 |
| 9 | WebGazer JavaScript library for real-time, calibration-free eye tracking using webcams in browsers. | other | 7.3/10 | 6.9/10 | 8.4/10 | 9.7/10 |
| 10 | PyGaze Open-source Python toolbox for creating and running eye tracking experiments. | other | 7.6/10 | 8.2/10 | 6.4/10 | 9.5/10 |
Comprehensive software for eye tracking data acquisition, analysis, and visualization from Tobii eye trackers.
Gold-standard high-precision eye tracking system for scientific research with sub-millimeter accuracy.
Open-source eye tracking platform supporting real-time gaze mapping and custom research applications.
Integrated behavioral research platform combining eye tracking with biometrics, facial coding, and EEG.
Robust eye tracking software for automotive safety, research, and media consumption analysis.
Affordable eye tracking software with real-time visualization for GP3 hardware in research and UX.
Remote webcam-based eye tracking platform for online user testing and heatmaps.
Free webcam eye tracking tool that overlays gaze on screen recordings for analysis.
JavaScript library for real-time, calibration-free eye tracking using webcams in browsers.
Open-source Python toolbox for creating and running eye tracking experiments.
Tobii Pro Lab
specializedComprehensive software for eye tracking data acquisition, analysis, and visualization from Tobii eye trackers.
AI-powered automated event classification that identifies fixations, saccades, and blinks with high precision across complex stimuli
Tobii Pro Lab is a professional-grade eye tracking software from Tobii that enables researchers to design experiments, record gaze data from Tobii eye trackers, and perform in-depth analysis. It offers advanced visualization tools like heatmaps, gaze plots, and AOI-based metrics, along with automated event classification for behavioral insights. The software supports large-scale data processing and seamless export to statistical packages like SPSS or MATLAB, making it ideal for UX, psychology, and marketing research.
Pros
- Exceptional accuracy and low noise floor for reliable data
- Comprehensive analysis tools including AI-driven event detection
- Broad compatibility with Tobii hardware and third-party integrations
Cons
- Steep learning curve for non-experts
- High upfront cost and hardware dependency
- Limited free trial or demo options
Best For
Professional researchers and academics in fields like UX/UI design, neuroscience, and consumer behavior studies requiring precise, scalable eye tracking analysis.
Pricing
Perpetual license starting at ~$2,500 USD; often bundled with Tobii Pro eye trackers; enterprise quotes available.
EyeLink
specializedGold-standard high-precision eye tracking system for scientific research with sub-millimeter accuracy.
Ultra-high 2000 Hz sampling rate with sub-millisecond latency for unparalleled temporal precision
EyeLink by SR Research is a premium eye tracking software and hardware ecosystem designed for high-precision research applications in psychology, neuroscience, and human-computer interaction. It offers tools like Experiment Builder for no-code experiment design, Data Viewer for advanced gaze data analysis, and seamless integration with the EyeLink 1000 Plus tracker, which delivers up to 2000 Hz sampling rates and sub-pixel accuracy. Widely used in academic and professional settings, it excels in remote and tower-mounted configurations for both monocular and binocular tracking.
Pros
- Exceptional accuracy with up to 2000 Hz sampling and <0.25° precision
- Comprehensive software suite including Experiment Builder and Data Viewer
- Robust drift correction and reliable calibration for long sessions
Cons
- High cost requires significant investment
- Steep learning curve for non-experts
- Hardware dependency limits portability
Best For
Professional researchers and academics in labs needing the utmost precision and reliability in eye tracking studies.
Pricing
Quote-based; hardware starts at ~$25,000+, software licenses from $2,000/year.
Pupil Core
specializedOpen-source eye tracking platform supporting real-time gaze mapping and custom research applications.
Open-source architecture enabling full customization, plugin development, and integration with external tools
Pupil Core is an open-source eye tracking software platform from Pupil Labs, designed to pair with their wearable eye tracking glasses for high-precision data capture and analysis. It includes Pupil Capture for real-time recording of eye and world camera data, and Pupil Player for offline visualization, annotation, and export of gaze metrics. The software excels in research applications with features like gaze mapping, pupil size measurement, and extensive plugin support for custom analyses.
Pros
- Highly accurate binocular tracking with low latency
- Open-source with rich plugin ecosystem and community support
- Robust real-world gaze estimation using scene cameras
Cons
- Requires expensive proprietary hardware (glasses ~€2,500+)
- Steep learning curve for setup and advanced features
- Calibration process can be time-intensive
Best For
Researchers and developers in HCI, psychology, or VR/AR needing customizable, research-grade eye tracking.
Pricing
Software is free and open-source; requires Pupil Labs Core glasses starting at ~€2,500.
iMotions
enterpriseIntegrated behavioral research platform combining eye tracking with biometrics, facial coding, and EEG.
Modular biosignal platform that synchronizes eye tracking data with physiological sensors for holistic behavioral insights
iMotions is a powerful human behavior research platform that specializes in integrating eye tracking with other biosensors like EEG, GSR, ECG, and facial recognition for comprehensive multimodal studies. It enables users to design experiments, capture synchronized data in real-time, and perform advanced analytics for insights into attention, emotions, and user behavior. Widely used in academia, UX research, and neuromarketing, it supports leading eye trackers such as Tobii, Pupil Labs, and EyeLink.
Pros
- Seamless multi-sensor integration and synchronization
- Real-time data visualization and AI-powered analytics
- Broad compatibility with top eye tracking hardware
Cons
- High cost with custom enterprise pricing
- Steep learning curve for advanced multimodal setups
- Requires separate hardware purchases
Best For
Academic researchers, neuromarketers, and UX teams needing integrated eye tracking with other biometrics for complex behavioral studies.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing, typically starting at $5,000+ per year for basic licenses, scaling with modules, users, and support.
SmartEye Pro
enterpriseRobust eye tracking software for automotive safety, research, and media consumption analysis.
Robust multi-camera remote tracking that maintains accuracy despite occlusions, headgear, or extreme lighting variations
SmartEye Pro is a professional-grade eye tracking software suite from SmartEye, designed for high-precision gaze analysis in research, automotive, aviation, and simulation environments. It leverages advanced computer vision algorithms and multi-camera setups to deliver robust tracking even with glasses, hats, or poor lighting. The platform includes real-time visualization, extensive data export options, and integrations with tools like Unity and MATLAB for seamless workflow integration.
Pros
- Exceptional accuracy (sub-degree precision) in challenging conditions
- Comprehensive analytics suite with heatmaps and AOI tools
- Strong integrations for VR/AR and simulator applications
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex calibration process
- Requires proprietary hardware, limiting flexibility
- Prohibitively expensive for non-enterprise users
Best For
Enterprise researchers, automotive HMI developers, and flight simulator engineers requiring reliable, high-fidelity eye tracking data.
Pricing
Custom enterprise licensing; full systems typically range from $20,000+ with hardware included—contact for quote.
Gazepoint
specializedAffordable eye tracking software with real-time visualization for GP3 hardware in research and UX.
Affordable remote eye tracking with sub-degree accuracy and open API for custom integrations
Gazepoint offers eye tracking hardware like the GP3 and HD Pro series paired with software solutions such as AnalysisPro for capturing, analyzing, and visualizing gaze data. The software supports heatmaps, gaze plots, AOI metrics, and exports to formats like CSV or MATLAB, making it suitable for research, UX testing, and neuromarketing. It emphasizes affordability and compatibility with tools like PsychoPy and Tobii Studio.
Pros
- Excellent value with high accuracy (0.4° avg) at lower cost
- Strong integrations with research tools like PsychoPy and ERPs
- Robust data export and analysis options including video overlays
Cons
- Software interface feels somewhat dated and clunky
- Hardware-dependent; limited flexibility without Gazepoint devices
- Calibration can be finicky in varied lighting conditions
Best For
Budget-conscious researchers and UX analysts needing reliable eye tracking for lab or remote studies.
Pricing
Hardware starts at ~$1,000 (GP3); AnalysisPro licenses from $495/year.
RealEye
specializedRemote webcam-based eye tracking platform for online user testing and heatmaps.
AI-driven webcam eye tracking for global remote studies at scale
RealEye is a cloud-based eye-tracking platform that leverages webcam technology and AI to conduct remote eye-tracking studies without requiring specialized hardware. It captures gaze data from participants worldwide, generating heatmaps, gaze plots, and attention metrics for UX research, marketing, and usability testing. The platform supports integration with surveys and allows for large-scale studies with detailed analytics and export options.
Pros
- Hardware-free webcam-based tracking enables remote, scalable studies
- User-friendly interface with quick study setup and real-time results
- Comprehensive analytics including heatmaps, AOIs, and video replays
Cons
- Accuracy can vary based on webcam quality and lighting conditions
- Limited to screen-based stimuli, not suitable for physical products
- Higher pricing tiers needed for large participant volumes
Best For
UX researchers and marketers seeking affordable remote eye-tracking for digital content without investing in lab equipment.
Pricing
Starts at $99/month (Starter plan for up to 50 participants), $299/month (Pro for 500), up to custom Enterprise; 14-day free trial available.
GazeRecorder
otherFree webcam eye tracking tool that overlays gaze on screen recordings for analysis.
Affordable webcam-only eye tracking that democratizes access without proprietary hardware
GazeRecorder is a webcam-based eye tracking software that enables users to record and analyze gaze data using ordinary webcams without needing specialized hardware. It generates visualizations such as heatmaps, scanpaths, and attention maps to reveal visual attention patterns during video playback or live sessions. Primarily designed for UX/UI research, market analysis, and educational applications, it supports exporting data for further analysis.
Pros
- No expensive hardware required, uses standard webcams
- Quick setup and intuitive interface for beginners
- Generates clear visualizations like heatmaps and scanpaths
Cons
- Lower accuracy than dedicated eye trackers (around 1-2°)
- Sensitive to lighting conditions and user movement
- Limited advanced analytics and integration options
Best For
Budget-conscious UX researchers, marketers, and educators needing accessible eye tracking for small-scale studies.
Pricing
Free version for basic recording; Pro license $99 one-time or $19/month subscription.
WebGazer
otherJavaScript library for real-time, calibration-free eye tracking using webcams in browsers.
Purely webcam-based gaze estimation running natively in any modern web browser
WebGazer is an open-source JavaScript library developed by Brown University that enables real-time eye tracking in web browsers using a standard webcam and ordinary computer vision techniques. It estimates gaze direction by detecting facial landmarks and applying machine learning models trained on webcam data. The tool supports user calibration to improve accuracy and is designed for web applications, research, and interactive experiences without requiring specialized hardware.
Pros
- No hardware required, runs entirely in the browser with a webcam
- Open-source and free, with easy JavaScript integration
- Supports calibration for personalized accuracy improvements
Cons
- Accuracy limited to ~100 pixels error, inferior to dedicated eye trackers
- Performance varies with lighting, webcam quality, and browser
- Lacks advanced features like pupillometry or multi-user support
Best For
Web developers and researchers needing accessible, hardware-free eye tracking for browser-based experiments or apps.
Pricing
Completely free and open-source (MIT license).
PyGaze
otherOpen-source Python toolbox for creating and running eye tracking experiments.
Unified Python API supporting both professional and low-cost webcam eye trackers
PyGaze is an open-source Python library tailored for eye tracking in psychological and neuroscience research experiments. It offers a unified API to interface with diverse eye trackers, including high-end models like EyeLink, Tobii, and SMI, as well as low-cost webcam-based solutions. Users can build custom experiments, often integrating with PsychoPy, to record and analyze gaze data efficiently.
Pros
- Broad hardware compatibility across multiple eye tracker brands
- Free and open-source with strong community support
- Seamless integration with PsychoPy for experiment building
Cons
- Steep learning curve requiring Python programming knowledge
- Setup and calibration can be finicky for certain trackers
- Primarily suited for research, not commercial real-time applications
Best For
Academic researchers and developers creating custom eye-tracking experiments in Python.
Pricing
Completely free and open-source.
Conclusion
The reviewed eye tracker software caters to varied needs, with Tobii Pro Lab emerging as the top choice, prized for its comprehensive data acquisition, analysis, and visualization tools. EyeLink shines for its exceptional precision in research, while Pupil Core distinguishes itself with open-source flexibility, each offering strong alternatives for specific goals. Together, these tools span professional and accessible use cases, ensuring a fit for diverse needs.
Unlock the power of detailed gaze analysis—start with Tobii Pro Lab to harness its robust features and take your projects to the next level.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison