ArcGIS Field Maps vs ArcGIS Survey123
Field Maps is map-centred; Survey123 is form-centred. Prefer Field Maps when workers need to navigate and update map features, and evaluate Survey123 when structured questions and survey logic lead the task. They can work together within an ArcGIS workflow.
Which option fits the requirement?
Field Maps is map-centred; Survey123 is form-centred. Prefer Field Maps when workers need to navigate and update map features, and evaluate Survey123 when structured questions and survey logic lead the task. They can work together within an ArcGIS workflow.
Seven differences that change the shortlist
| Buying question | ArcGIS Field Maps | ArcGIS Survey123 |
|---|---|---|
| Primary collection model | Map-centred field work | Structured form-based collection |
| Application environment | ArcGIS mobile app and map configuration | ArcGIS survey apps and form design |
| Configuration | Maps, forms and field workflows | Survey forms, rules and geographic questions |
| Offline boundary | Confirm offline map and service requirements | Confirm the selected form and device offline behaviour |
| Data handover | Connected ArcGIS layers and organisation access | Survey records in the ArcGIS environment |
| Evaluation focus | Map editing, offline use and field configuration | Question logic, attachments, validation and data export |
| Cost components | Eligible user type, services, devices and support | Eligible ArcGIS access, services, devices and support |
Four worked buying briefs
These are hypothetical scenarios with explicit assumptions. They do not establish equal capabilities, measured usability or a negotiated price.
| Requirement | Proposed exercise | Accept when |
|---|---|---|
| Collection pattern | Configure a copied task with a location, required attributes and an attachment. | The intended worker can complete the task without missing required information. |
| Offline recovery | Create authorised sample records offline and reconnect through a test workflow. | Records and attachments arrive without unexplained loss or duplication. |
| Shared editing | Have two test users update a copied feature and review the result. | The selected synchronisation and conflict process is understood. |
| Data handover | Export or reopen collected records in the intended destination. | Identifiers, coordinate context and attributes remain usable. |
Collection pattern
Can the team configure a copied task with a location, required attributes and an attachment?
ArcGIS Field Maps: With ArcGIS Field Maps, configure a copied task with a location, required attributes and an attachment.
ArcGIS Survey123: With ArcGIS Survey123, configure a copied task with a location, required attributes and an attachment.
The intended worker can complete the task without missing required information.
Offline recovery
Can the team create authorised sample records offline and reconnect through a test workflow?
ArcGIS Field Maps: With ArcGIS Field Maps, create authorised sample records offline and reconnect through a test workflow.
ArcGIS Survey123: With ArcGIS Survey123, create authorised sample records offline and reconnect through a test workflow.
Records and attachments arrive without unexplained loss or duplication.
Shared editing
Can the team have two test users update a copied feature and review the result?
ArcGIS Field Maps: With ArcGIS Field Maps, have two test users update a copied feature and review the result.
ArcGIS Survey123: With ArcGIS Survey123, have two test users update a copied feature and review the result.
The selected synchronisation and conflict process is understood.
Data handover
Can the team export or reopen collected records in the intended destination?
ArcGIS Field Maps: With ArcGIS Field Maps, export or reopen collected records in the intended destination.
ArcGIS Survey123: With ArcGIS Survey123, export or reopen collected records in the intended destination.
Identifiers, coordinate context and attributes remain usable.
Scope and architecture
Field Maps is map-centred; Survey123 is form-centred. Prefer Field Maps when workers need to navigate and update map features, and evaluate Survey123 when structured questions and survey logic lead the task. They can work together within an ArcGIS workflow.
Map editing, structured surveys and rapid observations are different collection patterns. Confirm devices, positioning requirements, attachments, offline packages and sync conflict handling. A mobile app does not itself establish location accuracy or permission to collect a dataset.
ArcGIS Field Maps product information ↗ · ArcGIS Survey123 product information ↗
Cost and migration planning
For ArcGIS Field Maps, include eligible user type, services, devices and support. For ArcGIS Survey123, include eligible ArcGIS access, services, devices and support. Define the same task, inputs, required outputs and operating environment, then confirm current terms for the actual software configuration.
Use test devices and authorised sample data. Create records offline, reconnect, review conflicts and verify attachments and identifiers in the destination system. Document collection permissions, device support and the handling of sensitive location information.
Questions before you choose
How should we choose between ArcGIS Field Maps and ArcGIS Survey123?
Field Maps is map-centred; Survey123 is form-centred. Prefer Field Maps when workers need to navigate and update map features, and evaluate Survey123 when structured questions and survey logic lead the task. They can work together within an ArcGIS workflow.
Which costs belong in the comparison?
For ArcGIS Field Maps, include eligible user type, services, devices and support. For ArcGIS Survey123, include eligible ArcGIS access, services, devices and support. Define the same task, inputs, required outputs and operating environment, then confirm current terms for the actual software configuration.
What should we validate before a production move?
Use test devices and authorised sample data. Create records offline, reconnect, review conflicts and verify attachments and identifiers in the destination system. Document collection permissions, device support and the handling of sensitive location information.
Turn the comparison into your own evaluation
Use the same criteria and priorities for both products, keep unknowns unassessed and record the plan and evidence behind your ratings.
Build a ArcGIS Field Maps vs ArcGIS Survey123 scorecard →Keep the assumptions with the figures
Use the date, billing cycle, units and limits with each example. Check current account terms before purchasing. Unverified prices and model costs stay unpriced.
Download the buying examples as JSON ↓Share the comparison
Use these examples when discussing the shortlist with your team.