Quick Overview
- 1#1: Ekahau Pro - Industry-leading Wi-Fi site survey, planning, and optimization software with advanced heatmapping and predictive modeling.
- 2#2: AI rMagnet Survey PRO - Professional-grade Wi-Fi site survey tool for passive and active surveys with detailed analysis and reporting.
- 3#3: TamoGraph Site Survey - Comprehensive Wi-Fi site survey software offering heatmaps, signal strength analysis, and network planning features.
- 4#4: NetSpot - User-friendly Wi-Fi analyzer and site survey tool for visualizing coverage, detecting interference, and optimizing networks.
- 5#5: Acrylic Wi-Fi Site Survey - Windows-based Wi-Fi site survey software with real-time analysis, heatmaps, and multi-floor support.
- 6#6: VisiWave Site Survey - Powerful Wi-Fi site survey tool with 3D visualizations, extensive analysis, and support for multiple wireless standards.
- 7#7: iBwave Design - Professional wireless network design and site survey platform for in-building Wi-Fi and cellular coverage planning.
- 8#8: inSSIDer - Wi-Fi network discovery and troubleshooting tool with site survey capabilities for interference detection and optimization.
- 9#9: WiFi Explorer - macOS Wi-Fi scanner and site survey app providing detailed spectrum analysis and network visualization.
- 10#10: Kismet - Open-source wireless sniffer and site survey tool for detecting networks, mapping coverage, and intrusion detection.
These tools were meticulously chosen and ranked based on features like heatmapping, interference detection, and network planning capabilities, paired with ease of use, performance, and overall value to meet the diverse needs of professionals across industries.
Comparison Table
This comparison table explores top wireless site survey software, including Ekahau Pro, AI rMagnet Survey PRO, TamoGraph Site Survey, NetSpot, Acrylic Wi-Fi Site Survey, and more, to guide readers in understanding key features, usability, and compatibility. It outlines critical details like deployment support and reporting capabilities, simplifying the selection of software tailored to network planning or troubleshooting needs.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Ekahau Pro Industry-leading Wi-Fi site survey, planning, and optimization software with advanced heatmapping and predictive modeling. | enterprise | 9.6/10 | 9.8/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 2 | AI rMagnet Survey PRO Professional-grade Wi-Fi site survey tool for passive and active surveys with detailed analysis and reporting. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.3/10 | 7.9/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 3 | TamoGraph Site Survey Comprehensive Wi-Fi site survey software offering heatmaps, signal strength analysis, and network planning features. | specialized | 8.8/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.3/10 |
| 4 | NetSpot User-friendly Wi-Fi analyzer and site survey tool for visualizing coverage, detecting interference, and optimizing networks. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 8.5/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.6/10 |
| 5 | Acrylic Wi-Fi Site Survey Windows-based Wi-Fi site survey software with real-time analysis, heatmaps, and multi-floor support. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 6 | VisiWave Site Survey Powerful Wi-Fi site survey tool with 3D visualizations, extensive analysis, and support for multiple wireless standards. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.6/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 7 | iBwave Design Professional wireless network design and site survey platform for in-building Wi-Fi and cellular coverage planning. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 9.1/10 | 6.8/10 | 7.4/10 |
| 8 | inSSIDer Wi-Fi network discovery and troubleshooting tool with site survey capabilities for interference detection and optimization. | specialized | 7.3/10 | 7.0/10 | 8.8/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 9 | WiFi Explorer macOS Wi-Fi scanner and site survey app providing detailed spectrum analysis and network visualization. | specialized | 7.4/10 | 6.9/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 10 | Kismet Open-source wireless sniffer and site survey tool for detecting networks, mapping coverage, and intrusion detection. | other | 8.2/10 | 9.4/10 | 6.1/10 | 10/10 |
Industry-leading Wi-Fi site survey, planning, and optimization software with advanced heatmapping and predictive modeling.
Professional-grade Wi-Fi site survey tool for passive and active surveys with detailed analysis and reporting.
Comprehensive Wi-Fi site survey software offering heatmaps, signal strength analysis, and network planning features.
User-friendly Wi-Fi analyzer and site survey tool for visualizing coverage, detecting interference, and optimizing networks.
Windows-based Wi-Fi site survey software with real-time analysis, heatmaps, and multi-floor support.
Powerful Wi-Fi site survey tool with 3D visualizations, extensive analysis, and support for multiple wireless standards.
Professional wireless network design and site survey platform for in-building Wi-Fi and cellular coverage planning.
Wi-Fi network discovery and troubleshooting tool with site survey capabilities for interference detection and optimization.
macOS Wi-Fi scanner and site survey app providing detailed spectrum analysis and network visualization.
Open-source wireless sniffer and site survey tool for detecting networks, mapping coverage, and intrusion detection.
Ekahau Pro
enterpriseIndustry-leading Wi-Fi site survey, planning, and optimization software with advanced heatmapping and predictive modeling.
GPU-accelerated Auto-Planner that instantly generates optimized AP layouts with interference avoidance and capacity predictions
Ekahau Pro is the premier wireless site survey and network planning software used by Wi-Fi professionals to design, analyze, optimize, and troubleshoot enterprise-grade wireless networks. It supports predictive modeling, passive and active site surveys, spectrum analysis, and capacity planning for Wi-Fi 6E/7 standards, delivering precise heatmaps, signal strength visualizations, and automated AP placement recommendations. Integrated with the Sidekick hardware, it provides industry-leading accuracy for on-site measurements and generates professional reports for deployment validation.
Pros
- Unmatched accuracy with Sidekick 2 integration for surveys and spectrum analysis
- AI-driven Auto-Planner for optimal AP placement and rapid design iterations
- Comprehensive support for Wi-Fi 7, cloud collaboration, and customizable reporting
Cons
- High cost, especially with required hardware purchases
- Steep learning curve for advanced features despite intuitive interface
- Subscription model may deter smaller teams preferring one-time purchases
Best For
Enterprise Wi-Fi engineers and network consultants designing and maintaining large-scale wireless deployments.
Pricing
Annual subscription starts at ~$5,495 for Pro license; Sidekick 2 hardware ~$4,995 one-time; volume discounts available.
AI rMagnet Survey PRO
enterpriseProfessional-grade Wi-Fi site survey tool for passive and active surveys with detailed analysis and reporting.
Patented TruMotion technology for highly accurate passive surveys with real-time motion compensation
AI rMagnet Survey PRO is a professional-grade wireless site survey software from NetAlly, used for planning, designing, validating, and optimizing Wi-Fi networks in enterprise environments. It supports passive, active, and AP-on-a-stick surveys, with compatibility for Wi-Fi 6/6E standards and a wide range of survey adapters. The tool excels in generating detailed heatmaps, coverage analysis, interference detection, and customizable reports to ensure optimal network performance.
Pros
- Superior visualization with multi-floor heatmaps and 3D modeling
- Comprehensive support for all major Wi-Fi standards and survey types
- Robust reporting and capacity planning tools
Cons
- Steep learning curve for beginners
- Windows-only compatibility
- High upfront licensing cost
Best For
Enterprise wireless engineers and network consultants performing detailed site surveys in large-scale or multi-building deployments.
Pricing
Perpetual license starts at ~$3,995 per seat, plus annual maintenance (~20%); subscription options available.
TamoGraph Site Survey
specializedComprehensive Wi-Fi site survey software offering heatmaps, signal strength analysis, and network planning features.
AP-on-a-stick predictive surveys for accurate pre-installation network simulations
TamoGraph Site Survey is a professional wireless site survey software for Wi-Fi network planning, analysis, and optimization. It supports both passive/active on-site surveys via laptop or mobile collectors and predictive modeling for pre-deployment design, generating customizable heatmaps for signal strength, SNR, noise, and channel overlap. The tool excels in producing detailed, exportable reports to validate network performance and troubleshoot issues.
Pros
- Precise heatmaps and visualizations with support for Wi-Fi 6/6E
- Seamless integration of passive/active surveys and predictive planning
- Professional-grade reporting with customizable templates
Cons
- Windows-only desktop application (mobile collectors extra)
- Relatively high upfront cost without subscription flexibility
- Learning curve for advanced predictive modeling features
Best For
Network engineers and IT professionals handling enterprise Wi-Fi deployments requiring detailed surveys and simulations.
Pricing
One-time license at $1,199 for a single-user perpetual license; volume discounts available.
NetSpot
specializedUser-friendly Wi-Fi analyzer and site survey tool for visualizing coverage, detecting interference, and optimizing networks.
Interactive 3D heatmaps for multi-floor environments with precise signal and interference overlays
NetSpot is a versatile WiFi site survey software designed for mapping, analyzing, and troubleshooting wireless networks on Mac, Windows, and Linux. It enables users to conduct passive and active surveys, generating detailed heatmaps for signal strength, interference, and channel utilization. The tool supports floor plan imports, multi-floor surveys, and customizable reports, making it ideal for optimizing WiFi coverage in homes, offices, and enterprises.
Pros
- Intuitive drag-and-drop interface for quick surveys
- Cross-platform compatibility with robust visualization tools
- Professional report generation and export options
Cons
- Free version lacks advanced survey features
- Limited support for very large-scale enterprise deployments
- Occasional performance lag with complex multi-floor maps
Best For
IT professionals and network admins in small to medium-sized businesses needing user-friendly WiFi analysis.
Pricing
Free basic version; Pro license at $49 per platform (one-time purchase with optional upgrades).
Acrylic Wi-Fi Site Survey
specializedWindows-based Wi-Fi site survey software with real-time analysis, heatmaps, and multi-floor support.
GPU-accelerated heatmaps that render complex multi-floor surveys in seconds
Acrylic Wi-Fi Site Survey is a Windows-exclusive software suite specialized in Wi-Fi network planning, analysis, and optimization through active and passive site surveys. It enables users to import floor plans, simulate access point placements, and generate interactive heatmaps for signal strength, coverage, noise, and interference across 802.11a/b/g/n/ac/ax standards. The tool supports GPS-enabled outdoor surveys and produces customizable PDF reports for professional documentation.
Pros
- Comprehensive heatmap visualizations with GPU acceleration for quick rendering
- Strong support for Wi-Fi 6/6E standards and multi-floor surveys
- Free version available for basic surveys with robust export options
Cons
- Limited to Windows platform, no macOS or Linux support
- Steep learning curve for predictive modeling and advanced configurations
- Professional features locked behind paid license without trial for full suite
Best For
IT administrators and network engineers needing detailed Wi-Fi surveys on Windows environments without enterprise-level budgets.
Pricing
Free edition for basic use; Professional license at €999 one-time or subscription from €299/year.
VisiWave Site Survey
specializedPowerful Wi-Fi site survey tool with 3D visualizations, extensive analysis, and support for multiple wireless standards.
High-fidelity animated survey playback and customizable 3D multi-floor visualizations
VisiWave Site Survey is a professional-grade Windows-based software for conducting detailed Wi-Fi site surveys and network analysis. It captures data from compatible Wi-Fi adapters during walkthroughs to generate high-resolution heatmaps for signal strength, noise, data rates, SNR, channel utilization, and more across 2.4GHz, 5GHz, and 6GHz bands. The tool supports multi-floor environments, GPS integration, and exports comprehensive reports for network planning and optimization.
Pros
- Exceptional visualization with smooth heatmaps, 3D views, and animated playback
- Broad adapter support including high-performance options for accurate data collection
- Robust multi-floor and GPS-enabled surveys with detailed reporting tools
Cons
- Windows-only, limiting cross-platform use
- Steeper learning curve for advanced features
- Higher upfront cost compared to some cloud-based alternatives
Best For
Experienced network engineers and IT professionals needing precise, visual Wi-Fi analysis for enterprise deployments.
Pricing
One-time Pro license ~$995; free version available with limitations; 30-day trial.
iBwave Design
enterpriseProfessional wireless network design and site survey platform for in-building Wi-Fi and cellular coverage planning.
iBwave Scanner integration for fully automated, high-precision passive site surveys with minimal manual effort
iBwave Design is a professional-grade software platform specialized in designing, simulating, and optimizing in-building wireless networks such as Wi-Fi, DAS, and private LTE/5G systems. It combines predictive RF modeling with 3D building visualization, bill-of-materials generation, and integration of real-world data from iBwave's hardware scanners for accurate site surveys and validation. Ideal for complex enterprise environments, it enables detailed planning of coverage, capacity, and interference mitigation before deployment.
Pros
- Advanced 3D RF prediction and multi-technology support (Wi-Fi, cellular)
- Seamless integration with iBwave Scanner for automated site surveys
- Comprehensive automation for BOM, reporting, and deployment workflows
Cons
- Steep learning curve requiring RF engineering expertise
- High enterprise-level pricing not suited for small businesses
- Primarily focused on in-building scenarios with limited outdoor capabilities
Best For
Enterprise RF engineers and network designers handling large-scale indoor wireless deployments in venues like stadiums, hospitals, and offices.
Pricing
Quote-based enterprise licensing, typically $5,000+ per user/year with additional costs for hardware scanners and cloud features.
inSSIDer
specializedWi-Fi network discovery and troubleshooting tool with site survey capabilities for interference detection and optimization.
Live waterfall spectrum view for visualizing Wi-Fi and non-Wi-Fi interference in real-time
inSSIDer by MetaGeek is a Wi-Fi analyzer tool designed for scanning and troubleshooting wireless networks, displaying real-time data on nearby access points, signal strength, channel usage, and interference sources across 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands. It excels in visualizing channel overlaps and spectrum activity, making it useful for quick site assessments. However, it lacks advanced site survey features like floor plan mapping, automated heatmaps, or predictive modeling found in professional tools.
Pros
- Intuitive real-time scanning and visualizations
- Effective interference detection including non-Wi-Fi sources
- Lightweight and fast for on-site use
Cons
- No floor plan integration or heatmap generation
- Limited reporting and export capabilities
- Primarily Windows-focused with subscription model for full features
Best For
IT technicians and network admins needing quick, portable Wi-Fi scans during basic site surveys in SMB environments.
Pricing
One-time purchase starting at $49.99 for Standard; Office edition at $149 with advanced spectrum analysis.
WiFi Explorer
specializedmacOS Wi-Fi scanner and site survey app providing detailed spectrum analysis and network visualization.
Interactive channel radar view that uniquely visualizes spectrum density and interference in real-time
WiFi Explorer is a macOS-exclusive wireless network analyzer from Intuitibits that scans and visualizes surrounding WiFi networks, displaying signal strength, channels, interference, and device details. It offers interactive charts, timelines, and location-aware logging for basic site surveys during walk-arounds. While effective for troubleshooting and quick assessments, it lacks advanced features like floor plan mapping or predictive heatmaps found in professional site survey tools.
Pros
- Stunning, intuitive visualizations including radar and timeline views
- Real-time scanning with location tagging for basic walk-around surveys
- Lightweight and responsive performance on macOS
Cons
- Limited to macOS only, no cross-platform support
- No heatmaps, floor plans, or predictive modeling for complex sites
- Pro features require additional one-time upgrade purchase
Best For
Mac-based IT admins and technicians needing simple, visual WiFi analysis and basic site surveys.
Pricing
One-time purchase: $19.99 for standard version; $29.99 upgrade to Pro for advanced features.
Kismet
otherOpen-source wireless sniffer and site survey tool for detecting networks, mapping coverage, and intrusion detection.
Integrated wireless intrusion detection alongside comprehensive site survey tools
Kismet is a free, open-source wireless network detector, sniffer, and intrusion detection system primarily used for passive Wi-Fi site surveys. It scans for access points, clients, signal strengths, encryption types, and hidden networks while capturing packets for detailed analysis. With its modern web-based interface, it supports real-time visualization, heatmaps on floorplans, and exportable data for professional reporting.
Pros
- Extremely powerful for passive scanning and packet analysis
- Supports wide range of wireless chipsets and protocols
- Modern web UI with interactive maps and alerts
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex Linux-based setup
- No native Windows/Mac support without virtualization
- Limited plug-and-play for non-technical users
Best For
Advanced network engineers and security professionals needing in-depth wireless analysis and IDS during site surveys.
Pricing
Completely free and open-source.
Conclusion
Evaluating the top wireless site survey tools reveals Ekahau Pro as the outstanding choice, leading with advanced heatmapping and predictive modeling. AI rMagnet Survey PRO stands out for professional-grade passive and active surveying, while TamoGraph Site Survey excels with its comprehensive coverage and planning features, each offering unique strengths to suit different needs. These tools collectively highlight the industry’s innovation, ensuring users find the ideal fit for their wireless deployment requirements.
Don’t miss the opportunity to experience Ekahau Pro’s top-tier performance—testing it can elevate your wireless site surveys to new levels of accuracy and efficiency.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison