2024 top alternatives to Deck.gl

Mapbox

Engineered by a team of dedicated web developers who aspired to dynamically generate maps within web browsers, Mapbox has evolved into a ubiquitous location data platform. Its many applications range from web and mobile to automotive and gaming. Utilising vector tiles and 3D rendering technology, it fetches geospatial data and style instructions to create graphics-rich maps.

Mapbox Top Features

  • Enterprise-grade location, traffic, and movement data sourcing.
  • Offers robust APIs for maps, searching, navigation, and vision services, among others.
  • Employs a compact and scalable vector tile format for quick map data delivery.
  • Products are categorised into core services including Maps, Search, Navigation, and Vision Services.
  • Developers are supported with comprehensive documentation, guides, tutorials, as well as dedicated support plans.
FeatureBenefit
Map data updated via multiple sourcesContinuous data updating via mobile sensors, driver feedback, computer vision cameras and aerial imagery leads to real-time accuracy.
Premium Boundaries, Traffic, and Movement Data ProductsSuperior quality geospatial data is made accessible for various applications.
Individual API pricingAllows flexibility in managing costs based on specific requirements, aiding in cost optimisation.

Mapbox Limitations

  • For novice users, the sheer diversity of Mapbox’s features and tools may present a steep learning curve, impeding swift adoption.
  • Despite adequate documentation and guides, the product’s complexity may necessitate technical assistance for efficient use.

Mapbox Pricing

Mapbox offers a tiered pricing strategy. Its services are free for developers during the development phase, with metered services applicable for production applications with active users. Furthermore, pay-as-you-go terms introduced in 2019 have resulted in an extended free tier and well-defined pricing for all services. Volume discounts triggering as usage increases, coupled with the lack of commercial restrictions, provide an accessible and scalable cost structure. Individual API pricing is available for further cost flexibility.

Mapbox Use Cases

Use Case 1: Web Developers

Due to its vast suite of APIs and a strong support structure through detailed documentation, Mapbox is a powerful tool for web developers aiming to incorporate rich mapping and location data within applications.

Use Case 2: Gaming Applications

With the use of 3D rendering technology and support for gaming applications, Mapbox can enhance the realism and functionality of virtual environments within games.

Use Case 3: Delivery Services

For delivery services, the routing, navigation, and delivery matrixing capabilities of Mapbox, together with its real-time traffic and location data, can optimise and streamline operations.

Cesium

Cesium is a versatile Web Graphics Technology platform offering different plans tailored for various needs. Armed with an impressive list of features, Cesium grants users an Apache License Version 2.0, offering terms for use, reproduction, and distribution of its software.

Cesium Top Features

  • Varied plans, catering to personal, commercial, and educational usage scenarios.
  • Unlimited apps and end-user availability for all plans.
  • Ample allowance for data streaming and storage.
  • Use of Bing Maps and Geocodes in certain plans.
  • Several third-party contributions included, broadening the technology’s usability.
FeatureDescription
Apache LicenseOffers a no-charge, irrevocable copyright license to users.
Contributor RecognitionAcknowledges all contributing persons to Cesium’s source code.
Patent ProtectionsIncludes patents and pending patents, offering a solid foundation.

Cesium Limitations

  • Commercial usage for projects with revenue or funding above $50K requires a paid account.
  • Government and funded educational research projects need a commercial license.
  • Product endorsement or promotion requires license usage.

Cesium Pricing

Cesium operates on a tiered pricing structure, offering a free plan for non-commercial use, a $149/month commercial plan, and a $499/month premium plan for enhanced capabilities. For larger needs, a custom pricing plan is available on inquiry.

Cesium Use Cases

Use case 1

For exploratory commercial/government development, Cesium can provide robust data streaming and storage solutions, while adhering to licensing requirements.

Use case 2

Non-commercial personal projects can benefit from Cesium’s free community account, allowing exploration of the platform’s capabilities.

Use case 3

For funded educational activities, Cesium offers comprehensive features to aid in the conduct of detailed research and study.

A-Frame

Behold A-Frame, a distinguished creation of the brighter minds at Mozilla VR team. It is an open-source web framework, diligently maintained by Supermedium, a group of dedicated developers from Google, crafted specifically for VR experiences.

A-Frame Top Features

  • Built on JavaScript, A-Frame’s flexibility extends across platforms.
  • It eases the burdens of web developers, facilitating the creation of 3D/VR experiences using HTML and sparing them the intricacies of WebGL.
  • Support for an impressive array of VR headsets: Vive, Rift, Windows Mixed Reality, Daydream, GearVR, Cardboard, and Oculus Go.
  • Convenience of development from a plain HTML file without the pressure of installation and the ability to host and deploy instantly on Glitch.com.
Experience CreationIntegration with WebXR
The beauty of A-Frame lies in its capacity to produce 3D/WebXR scenes straight from HTML, making VR more accessible and less intimidating for web designers.A-Frame’s webxr system accommodates scene’s WebXR device setup, enhancing user experience and increasing reach and flexibility.
It comes with the comfort of support provided via GitHub issues, StackOverflow, and real-time online assistance via Slack.The overlayElement, a significant feature supports handheld AR for newer versions of Chrome on Android, version 82 and above. It selects a DOM element for WebXR DOM Overlay during the AR session, paving the way for seamless integration across different mediums.

A-Frame Limitations

  • For those who are not fond of working in HTML, A-Frame’s heavily HTML-based nature might pose a disadvantage.
  • Advanced features might require a sound understanding of WebGL, which could potentially restrain those seeking an entirely code-free solution.

A-Frame Pricing

The generosity of A-Frame comes without a price tag. Yes, this stellar tool is open-source, allowing you to reap its manifold benefits for no financial cost.

A-Frame Use Cases

Use case 1: Corporations

Suitable for a remarkable roster of heavyweights such as Google, Disney, Samsung, Toyota, Ford, Amnesty International, and CERN, A-Frame has demonstrated its worth in delivering scalable VR applications capable of meeting enterprise-level standards.

Use case 2: Media

Armed with A-Frame, distinguished media houses like NPR, Al Jazeera, and The Washington Post have been empowered to present their stories in a richer, more immersive fashion.

Use case 3: Education and Science

For institutions of learning and knowledge such as NASA, A-Frame serves as a tool to offer augmented experiences that stimulate the intellect and inspire discovery.

Godot

Godot

MeetGodot, an intuitive and open-source game engine cherished by global developers. With a focus on scene-driven design, Godot offers flexibility and dynamism for the creation of intricate and robust games.

Godot Top Features

  • Open-source game engine: Modifiable codebase, no hidden costs or licensing fees.
  • Scene-driven design: Using nodes to create complex and reusable scenes.
  • Language Support: Built-in scripting language GDScript with optional static typing support. Supports C# on .NET platform and official C++ support with GDExtension API in 4.0 version.
  • 2D & 3D Engine: Versatile engine catering to high and low-end devices. Specialized 2D workflow.
  • Import & Export: Direct import of Blender files, operational across Windows, macOS, Linux.
Additional FeaturesDetails
Community Language BindingsRust, Nim, Python, and other languages supported by the community.
Collaborative StorageDesigned for team collaboration, making shared projects more effective.
In-built ToolsEncompasses tools for editing and scripting, equipped with profilers and debugging tools.

Godot Downsides

  • Complex 3D game development might not be the best fit.
  • .NET is only available for desktop platforms currently in Godot 4.

Godot Pricing

Being open-source, Godot is free. No licensing fees, contracts, or hidden charges. You enjoy a user-owned, cost-effective game development solution.

Godot Use Cases

Use case 1

Perfect for beginner game developers seeking a cost-free, intuitive, and feature-rich game engine.

Use case 2

Excellent choice for experienced developers looking to leverage advanced features like the scripting language GDScript and integrated editing and scripting tools.

Use case 3

Optimal for collaboration focused projects, owing to its team collaboration aimed storage solution.

PlayCanvas

PlayCanvas

PlayCanvas is a renowned, open-source 3D game/interactive 3D application engine. Leveraging the power of WebGL, it facilitates the creation of dynamic, visually captivating experiences.

PlayCanvas Top Features

  • Cloud-hosted creation platform: Enables simultaneous editing from various computers, promoting enhanced collaboration among developers.
  • WebGL compatibility: Works smoothly with browsers that support WebGL, such as Firefox and Google Chrome.
  • Robust 3D capabilities: Facilitates rigid-body physics simulation, 3D audio handling, and impressive 3D animations.
  • Real-time Editor: Offers a collaborative platform for simultaneous editing by multiple developers.
  • Scripting with JavaScript: Leveraging the universally popular programming language, PlayCanvas allows developers to create interactive experiences with ease.
FeatureDescription
Support for WebGL standardsPlayCanvas supports both WebGL 1.0 and 2.0 standards, crucial for GPU accelerated 3D graphics.
DistributionEnables seamless distribution via a URL web link or native wrappers for Android, among others.
Version ControlIntegrated with PlayCanvas’ robust version control system allowing branch switching to manage projects efficiently.

PlayCanvas Disadvantages

  • Requires PlayCanvas account and generated access token for usage, which might be a barrier for casual users.
  • While beneficial, the cooperation feature with time-checked modifications could be prone to issues if not managed correctly.
  • A more comprehensive search feature, extending beyond script/text files in projects, could be useful.

PlayCanvas Pricing

PlayCanvas offers a range of accessible plans, including Free, Personal, and Organisation, making it a suitable option for different user types and budget constraints.

PlayCanvas Use Cases

Use case 1: Web Graphic Development

Whether you represent a company like Samsung or Facebook or you’re an individual developer, PlayCanvas’ collaborative and robust suite of features facilitates the creation of stunning web graphics.

Use case 2: 3D Game Design

From indie game developers to giants like Disney and Activision, PlayCanvas serves as an effective tool for designing engaging 3D games thanks to its impressive animation capabilities and efficient physics simulations.

Use case 3: Interactive 3D Application Creation

PlayCanvas’ compatibility with widely used browsers and platforms makes it an optimal choice for developers aiming to create interactive 3D applications for broad audiences.

OpenLayers

OpenLayers

As a major tech player specializing in map applications on the web, OpenLayers is renowned for its versatility in handling diverse data formats, including geo-referenced images, vector tiles, and both open and proprietary vector data.

OpenLayers Top Features

  • Powerful API which simplifies the setup of complex map applications
  • Superior model management capabilities that identify edge cases and detect production errors
  • Robust alert system for Language Learning Model (LLM) failures
  • Developer-centric design with a commitment to seamless onboarding and notifications
  • Supports ‘OffscreenCanvas’ for efficient parallelization of UI and rendering tasks
FeatureDescription
Testing and Evaluation SuiteAutomatically tests data integrity, consistency & drift, performance, fairness, robustness
TypeScript SupportAuto-generates TypeScript declarations as *.d.ts files, ensuring compatibility with modern development processes
Commit SystemFacilitates convenient tracking and the organization of various software version iterations

OpenLayers Limitations

  • ‘OffscreenCanvas’, while powerful, is not yet widely supported in mainstream browsers
  • Some older browsers will require polyfills to ensure compatibility

OpenLayers Use Cases

Use case 1: Interactive Road Traffic analytics

OpenLayers was used in 2019 for a road analytics demonstration in Finland. Its ability to incorporate road traffic accident data into maps, offering enriched geographical context, made it a powerful tool for this application.

Use case 2: Teaching Language Learning Models

With a robust alert system in place for LLM failures, OpenLayers can prove highly beneficial in instructional contexts, giving learners the ability to perform hands-on experimentation with AI models.

Use case 3: Companies Requiring SOC 2 Type 2 Compliance

As a SOC 2 Type 2 compliant platform with secure hosting options, OpenLayers is well-positioned to meet the needs of organizations adhering to stringent information security standards.

Babylon.js

At the forefront of web graphic technology, Babylon.js, a real-time 3D engine, breathes life into your browser, painting 3D graphics via HTML5. Initiated by David Catuhe and further nurtured by developers at Microsoft and a multitude of other contributors, Babylon.js radiates its brilliance from its inception in 2013.

Babylon.js Top Features

  • Real-time 3D rendering: Babylon.js takes full advantage of HTML5 abilities to render high quality 3D graphics in real-time.
  • Diverse use applications: From virtual worlds to urban underground infrastructure modelling, Babylon.js broadens the boundaries of implementation.
  • Physical realism: Utilizes physically-based rendering and post-processing methods, complemented by plug-in physics engines like Cannon.js and Oimo, to simulate a world that mirrors ours.
  • Polygon modelling: Uses triangular faces to craft preciseness in 3D designs.
Developer Support: Python.js is supported by an enthusiastic community of over 190 contributors, readily available on github.com.
Progressive API: Open for user-projects, Babylon.js’s API puts control in the hands of every user.
Animation Support: Keyframe animation and skeleton support for character animation.

Babylon.js Limitations

  • Limited use of constructive solid geometry.
  • Rendering depends largely on HTML5 and WebGL compatible browsers.

Babylon.js Pricing

Babylon.js earns its laurels in an open-source platform with freely accessible GitHub source code distributed under the Apache License 2.0. Dive into the tribe of contributors or simply use, all for the grand price of zero.

Babylon.js Use Cases

Use case 1: Education in Medicine

With Babylon.js, reality finds a new dimension in the visualisation of medical concepts. Complications, once trapped in two-dimensional textbooks, now thrive in the interactive 3D space Babylon.js provides, aiding academic mastery.

Use case 2: Military Training

Babylon.js crafts virtual environments conducive for military training, enabling physically safe and financially viable real-world scenario simulations.

Use case 3: Product Design

By exploiting the 3D modelling process of Babylon.js, product designers gain a new perspective. Their creations, once confined to sketches and blueprints, can now be explored and critiqued from every angle before physical production.

Three.js

Developed by Ricardo Cabello, Three.js is a powerful JavaScript library that forms an integral part of the Web Graphics Technology world. The library allows developers to create and control animated 3D computer graphics without any need for browser plugins, all right within a web browser environment.

Three.js Top Features

  • GPU-accelerated 3D animations facilitated with JavaScript
  • Extensive WebGL 2.0 Integration
  • Feature-rich libraries such as GLGE and Scene.js included
  • VR and AR support via WebXR
  • Functions across all browsers supporting WebGL 1.0
FeatureBenefit
Multiplicity of effects, scenes, cameras, animationsFosters seamless creation of complex 3D animations
Materials and shaders supportedEnables production of high-quality animation
Geometry generationEnhances the 3D models’ visual experience

Three.js Limitations

  • High-level features could be intensive for beginners to comprehend
  • Heavy animation could lead to slower load times on less robust machines

Three.js Pricing

The good news for developers and companies alike is that Three.js is open source and completely free to use, under the MIT license.

Three.js Use Cases

Use case 1: 3D Modeling and Animation

Through its GPU-acceleration feature, robust libraries, and plethora of support options, Three.js simplifies the creation of 3D modeling and animation, making it ideal for graphic designers and game developers.

Use Case 2: Augmented Reality

Thanks to the native WebXR support, Three.js can be effectively used for developing Augmented Reality applications, presenting a virtual, interactive user experience.

Use Case 3: Virtual Reality

Likewise, Virtual Reality applications also benefit from the WebXR integration, rendering immersive experiences, particularly essential in the fields of games, training simulations, and immersive storytelling.

D3.js

Introducing D3.js, a powerhouse JavaScript library that empowers you to deliver dynamic, interactive web-based data visualizations. Rewrite the way you visualize data on the digital canvas, using cutting-edge SVG, HTML5, and CSS standards.

Top Features of D3.js

  • Dynamic Visualizations: Create engaging, interactive data visualizations, setting a new bar for web graphics. D3.js takes digital storytelling to a whole new level!
  • Superior Performance: D3.js has a relentless focus on web standards, enabling the production of high-performance data visualizations.
  • Data Binding: Harness the power of large datasets, binding data to SVG objects with D3.js functions. Your charts and diagrams just got a lot smarter!
  • CSS Selectors: Make selections through CSS-style selectors based on tag, class, identifier, attribute, or place in hierarchy. It’s an HTML element’s world and you just live in it!
FeatureDetails
AwardsTest of Time Awards from Information is Beautiful and IEEE VIS speak volumes about the lasting impact of D3.js
FreedomWith 30 discrete modules, you are in the driver’s seat, crafting your visualizations your way. Say goodbye to restrictive abstractions!
Community-drivenD3.js is supported by a rich, passionate community of developers. It’s more than a library; it’s an open-source family.

Limitations of D3.js

  • While it’s a perfect tool for media organizations, it might be an overkill for private dashboards or one-off analyses.
  • Some might find the lack of a ‘chart’ concept confusing. D3.js utilizes individual primitives composed for data visualization.
  • Steep learning curve can be a deterrent for beginners venturing into data visualization.

D3.js is free to use

Yes, you read it right! D3.js is a free, open-source library. So, grab the wheel and start weaving compelling digital narratives without straining your budget.

Use Cases

Media Organizations

D3.js shines when used by media organizations to visualize complex data for their audiences. It’s a revolution in bytes!

Data Scientists and Academics

D3.js serves as an expressive framework for practitioners and academics in the world of data visualization. It’s high time to turn those bytes into breakthroughs!

Web Developers

With its heavy focus on web standards, D3.js is a powerful tool in the arsenal of web developers aiming to create dynamic, interactive visual interfaces.

PixiJS

PixiJS is a feature-rich, high-speed rendering system that leverages WebGL or Canvas to produce stunning 2D visuals. Notably, it is a developmental juggernaut, perfect for constructing graphics-heavy apps, online games, interactive ads, and educational content.

PixiJS Top Features

  • Speed- Capable of automatic sprite and geometry batching for optimal WebGL utilization.
  • Extensive Graphic Support- Not limited to sprites, it can draw trails, primitives, and provide text rendering.
  • WebGL Native- Fast rendering with advanced effects achieved through the Filter class and shader programs.
  • Open Source- Fully accessible code, MIT licensed and hosted on GitHub for wide-spread collaboration.
  • Easy Deployment- Simplified deployment process similar to a website, with extension capabilities for mobile and desktop apps via Cordova & Electron.
FeatureDescription
ExtensibilityClean internal API across 5 major versions allows for seamless integrations.
User-FriendlyCreated with the aim of being efficient, 2D capable and user-friendly across all devices.
Rich learning ResourcesExtensive educational content available through the official website, tutorials, API guides, and an interactive Discord chat.

PixiJS Limitations

  • Although efficient and fast, PixiJS may not be suitable for all use-cases as it is not a game engine but a ‘creation engine’ specifically geared for moving things on screens rapidly.
  • Its open-source nature requires regular community engagement for bug reporting and fixing via GitHub.

PixiJS Pricing

PixiJS is completely free, fueling its development through user contributions. It epitomizes the power and potential of open-source technology.

PixiJS Use Cases

Web Applications

PixiJS’s capabilities particularly shine in building interactive web applications which require fast rendering and high-quality 2D graphics.

Online Gaming and Interactive Ads

Innovative styling, efficient performance and pixel-level effects make PixiJS ideal for the creation of engaging online games and interactive ads.

Education

PixiJS excels in developing educational content, its simplicity and adaptability make it easy for educators and learners to leverage the platform.

p5.js

Instantly incepted in 2013 by Lauren McCarthy and supported by the Processing Foundation, p5.js is a powerful JavaScript library designed for creating visual content and games, rendering them seamlessly in a web browser. It’s a native JavaScript alternative to Processing.js, a previously popular tool that was discontinued in 2018.

p5.js Top Features

  • Visual Design: p5.js specializes in visual design, making it a go-to tool for creating interactive, graphics-rich content.
  • Accessible to Non-Programmers: It offers a visual context to computer programming, enabling even non-programmers to work with it effectively.
  • Wide Brower Support: p5.js supports all major browsers including Mozilla Firefox, Opera, Internet Explorer, Safari, and Google Chrome, guaranteeing wide compatibility.
InterfaceUser-friendly GUI for a smooth compilation and execution process.
Multiple Language SupportAllows the usage of Java, GLSL, and JavaScript.
International Projects VisibilityGives exposure to a variety of global projects.

p5.js Limitations

  • No Static Variables and Methods: p5.js does not support the usage of static variables and methods.
  • Dependent on HTML Canvas: All 2D and 3D content is rendered via the HTML canvas element which may limit some functionality.

p5.js Pricing

p5.js is an open-source library licensed under the GNU Lesser General Public License for Libraries and the GNU General Public License for its IDE, thus making it entirely free to use.

p5.js Use Cases

Use Case 1: Visual Content Creation

If you’re a creative artist, graphic designer or a non-technical individual with a desire to create stunning visual content, p5.js is your tool of choice.

Use Case 2: Game Development

Game developers looking to create visually pleasant and interactive web games will find p5.js extremely useful.

Use Case 3: Web Graphics

The affordability, accessibility, and versatility of p5.js make it a preferred choice for web developers seeking to add a graphic edge to their websites.

React Three Fiber

Delving into the realm of Three.js-renderers, we encounter React-three-fiber – a power-packed tool designed for efficient creation of dynamic 3D scene graphs. Pioneering in its approach, it brings the entire Three.js ecosystem into the React arena, opening up a universe of possibilities for web graphics enthusiasts.

Top Features of React Three Fiber

  • Full Three.js Compatibility: This tool imposes no restrictions, accommodating every feature of Three.js.
  • High Performance and Efficiency: With a performance on par, if not surpassing Three.js, React-three-fiber boasts no overhead. Its components render outside React while exploiting its scheduling capabilities for large-scale operations.
  • Frequent Feature Updates: React-three-fiber remains in adaptative synchronization with the regular updates of Three.js, ensuring the most current features are readily available.
Declarative Component Structure:Facilitates effortless creation and management of scene graphs, and neatly matches React’s declarative, reusable component model.
Utility Libraries Support:Enhances functionality with support for various utility libraries like @react-three/drei, @react-three/gltfjsx, and @react-three/postprocessing.
Integration with HTML5 Canvas and WebGL APIs:Leverages these APIs for effective 2D and 3D graphic animations rendering within browser environment.

React Three Fiber Downsides

While this tool is extremely comprehensive, one potential drawback could be the initial learning curve associated with incorporating React-three-fiber into projects especially for those unfamiliar with the React paradigm.

React Three Fiber Pricing

Adding more allure to its long list of features, React-three-fiber is entirely open-source and free to use, making it accessible for all.

React Three Fiber Use Cases

Use Case 1: Interactive Graphic Animations

Create intriguing interactive graphics such as an object rotation colored dynamically based on mouse hover.

Use Case 2: GUI Controls Creation

Easily construct intuitive GUI controls in seconds.

Use Case 3: Simulations

Craft realistic physics and path tracing simulations, pushing the envelope of what’s feasible in Web Graphic Technology.

Canvas

Canvas

HTML Canvas is a dynamic graphics powerhouse used for creating on-the-fly interactive animations and data presentations via JavaScript. With its foundations in the HTML5, Canvas plaxes an essential role in web design and gaming applications.

Canvas Top Features

  • Dynamic Graphics Creation: Paths, boxes, circles, text, and images are all drawable elements in the Canvas arsenal.
  • RenderingContext: A necessary component for displaying anything in the initially blank Canvas.
  • HTML5 Core attributes: Canvas employs core HTML5 attributes like id, name, and class, and can be located in DOM using getElementById().
  • Compatibility: Supported by latest versions of Firefox, Safari, Chrome and Opera. For IE8, the ExplorerCanvas script is required.
  • Path API: Draw graphics with path features like beginPath(), closePath(), moveTo(x,y), and lines, curves, gradients, styles, colors etc.
  • Direct Pixel Manipulation: The Canvas API is used for ‘raster’ graphics and allows pixel-level manipulation.
FeatureDescription
Drawing StylesImprove overall aesthetic appeal; styles are applied to all subpaths, represented with stroke or fill method.
ImagesCanvasImageSource used to draw images directly to canvas. Image sources can be: HTMLImageElement, HTMLCanvasElement, HTMLVideoElement.
TransformationsCanvas uses transformation matrix for transforming input coordinates to displayed ones.

Canvas Downsides

  • Script-dependent: All graphics within Canvas need to be drawn with script, limiting its usability to those familiar with JavaScript or similar languages.
  • Compatibility issues: IE8 requires a separate script (ExplorerCanvas) for support, which may add another layer of complexity.
  • Manual control: While the API allows pixel-level manipulation, this also means that all features must be programmed manually, which impacts speed-to-launch for developers.

Canvas Pricing

As Canvas is a part of the HTML5 specification, it is free to use and does not have any associated costs.

Canvas Use Cases

Use case 1: Gaming Applications

Canvas shines in creating dynamic, interactive gaming applications thanks to its pixel level manipulation and high degree of programmability.

Use case 2: Data Presentation

Because Canvas can draw anything, it’s frequently employed for visualizations, graphics, diagrams, and other graphical data presentations.

Use case 3: Web Design

With the ability to add multiple Canvas elements on one HTML page, it’s a powerful tool for web designers to add dynamic, interactive graphics.