Best Shadow Analysis Tools 2026
Compare the top tools for visualizing shadows, calculating sun position, and planning around sunlight.
Last updated: January 2026
Feature Comparison
| Feature | SunMap | SunCalc | Shadowmap | Sun Surveyor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3D Building Shadows | Yes | No | Yes | Limited |
| Free to Use | Yes | Yes | Limited | No ($10) |
| No Signup Required | Yes | Yes | No | Yes |
| Tree Shadows | Yes | No | No | No |
| Terrain Shadows | Yes | No | Yes | No |
| Global Coverage | Yes | Yes | Limited | Yes |
| Sun Position Data | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Mobile App | Web only | Web only | Web only | iOS/Android |
| AR View | No | No | No | Yes |
Detailed Tool Reviews
SunMap
Best OverallSunMap is a free, web-based 3D shadow analysis tool that uses real building data from OpenStreetMap to visualize how shadows change throughout the day and year. It's the only tool that combines 3D building shadows, tree shadows, and terrain shadows in a single free interface.
Pros
- + Completely free, no signup
- + Real 3D building shadows
- + Tree and terrain shadows
- + Global coverage (10,000+ cities)
- + Sun position data (azimuth, altitude)
Cons
- - Web only (no mobile app)
- - Building heights depend on OSM data
- - No AR view
SunCalc
Best for Quick LookupsSunCalc is a lightweight, fast sun position calculator. It shows sun azimuth, altitude, and the sun's path on a map overlay. Great for quick golden hour lookups, but doesn't show 3D building shadows.
Pros
- + Very fast and lightweight
- + Simple, clean interface
- + Free, no signup
- + Good for golden hour times
Cons
- - No 3D building shadows
- - No terrain or tree shadows
- - 2D map only
Sun Surveyor
Best Mobile AppSun Surveyor is a paid mobile app ($9.99) with augmented reality features. You can see the sun's path overlaid on your camera view. Great for photographers who want to visualize on-location.
Pros
- + AR sun tracking
- + 3D compass view
- + Works offline
- + Good for on-site planning
Cons
- - Paid ($9.99)
- - No building shadows
- - Mobile only
Which Tool Should You Use?
For Photography Planning
SunMap is best for pre-planning shoots with 3D shadow visualization. Use Sun Surveyorif you need AR on-location or SunCalc for quick golden hour times.
For Real Estate Analysis
SunMap is the clear winner. It shows how neighboring buildings shade a property throughout the year—essential for evaluating natural light before buying.
For Solar Panel Planning
SunMap shows building and tree shadows on rooftops, helping identify shading that can reduce panel output by 30-50%. Check both summer and winter solstice patterns.
For Architecture & Urban Planning
SunMap or Shadowmap for preliminary shadow studies. For legal shadow impact assessments, you may need professional CAD software with certified calculations.
Try the #1 Shadow Analysis Tool
SunMap is free to use with no signup required. Analyze shadows at any location worldwide.
Open SunMap Free