Comparison

Pace Ruler vs MD Outdoors

Price, ratings, monetisation and update history for both apps, side by side — with what reviewers say about each.

Head to head
About

Pace Ruler

This tool uses GNSS to measure distances accurately on foot. Survey results can be viewed on an iOS map and shared easily. Customize units, calculation methods, and accuracy settings for precise measurements.

Highlights
  • GNSS distance surveying
  • iOS map integration
  • File sharing of results
  • Customizable units (meter, foot)
  • Multiple distance calculation methods
  • Adjustable GNSS accuracy
  • Automatic shut-off
Features
Read full description

This simple tool utilizes GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) to survey distances on foot. The survey results, or tracking data, can be conveniently checked using an iOS map and are easily shareable via file sharing. Settings: - Remove Ads: This option removes ads via in-app purchase and displays a toolbar. - Units: Choose between meter, international foot, or U.S. survey foot. - Distance Calculation Methods: Options include iOS Default, Haversine, Hubeny (Simple Formula), Bowring, or Hubeny (Original). Bowring's method offers the best accuracy. - Reference Ellipsoid: Choose between WGS84 or GRS80. - GNSS Accuracy: Specify the allowed range of error. - Automatic Shut Off: If there's no movement for about 5 minutes, surveying will stop automatically. - Do Not Use Thumbnail: This option hides thumbnails. - Use Light Mode for Maps: The map is displayed in light mode even if you are using dark mode. Notice: Continued use of GNSS running in the background can dramatically decrease battery life.

About

MD Outdoors

This official app for Maryland's hunters and anglers allows you to carry all your licenses and tags digitally. Record harvest check-ins directly within the application. It replaces the previous AccessDNR app, so be sure to back up any photos from your trophy case before switching.

Highlights
  • Digital licenses and tags
  • Record harvest check-ins
  • Official app for Maryland hunters and anglers
  • Replaces AccessDNR app
  • Trophy case photo backup reminder
Features
Read full description

DNR HAS A NEW APP! The previous product, AccessDNR is no longer being supported by the department. Our new app, MD Outdoors, replaces AccessDNR. Please remove your old app and download an updated version below. NOTE: Before you remove your AccessDNR app, back up any photos you have in your trophy case. These are not stored as part of your user account and will be lost if you don't save copies.fficial MDDNR app for Maryland’s hunters and anglers! Carry all licenses/tags, and record Harvest Checks Ins with the MD Outdoors app.

Screenshots

Pace Ruler3 screens
MD Outdoors4 screens

Verdict

The call

The clearest difference is rating: Pace Ruler at 2.6 against MD Outdoors's 1.8. Pace Ruler also leads on review sentiment (39% vs 7%). MD Outdoors's advantage is in-app purchases (none vs 1) and ads (none vs shown). On price, ratings volume, device support and iOS requirement there is nothing between them.

Scored on Price · Rating · Positive reviews · Number of ratings · Update frequency · Ads · In-app purchases · Monetization · Best chart rank · Devices · Requires iOS

CostPrice · In-app purchases · Ads · Monetization

Both are free to download. Pace Ruler sells 1 one-off in-app purchase. MD Outdoors asks for nothing beyond the download.

ReceptionRating · Positive reviews · Number of ratings

Pace Ruler holds the better App Store score, 2.6 against 1.8. Both are backed by a comparable volume of ratings — 15 and 36 respectively. Written reviews point the same way: 39% of Pace Ruler's written reviews are positive against 7% of MD Outdoors's.

UpkeepUpdate frequency

Pace Ruler ships an update every 6 months, MD Outdoors every 6 weeks. The most recent releases landed on October 23, 2026 and October 30, 2026 respectively.

Scorecard6 real differences · 4 level
Pace Ruler versus MD Outdoors: the parameters behind the verdict, then further details
ParameterPace RulerMD Outdoors
PriceFreeFree
Rating2.6 (15 ratings) — better1.8 (36 ratings)
Positive reviews39.3% of reviews — better7.1% of reviews
Number of ratings1536 — better
Update frequencyEvery 6 monthsEvery 6 weeks — better
AdsYesNo — better
In-app purchasesYesNo — better
MonetizationFree with in-app purchasesFree — better
DevicesiPhone, iPad, iPodiPhone, iPad, iPod
Requires iOS15.015.0
Further details — not scored
Size5 MB48 MB
Age rating4+4+
DeveloperTakafumi AMANOMaryland Department of Natural Resources

Customer experience

Pace Ruler

All ratings15 ratings
Positive40.0%
Neutral0.0%
Negative60.0%
Written reviews28 reviews
Positive39.3%
Neutral10.7%
Negative50.0%

MD Outdoors

All ratings36 ratings
Positive16.7%
Neutral2.8%
Negative80.6%
Written reviews14 reviews
Positive7.1%
Neutral7.1%
Negative85.7%

In-app purchases

1 purchases

Pace Ruler

One-time1
  • Remove Ads$1.99
None

MD Outdoors

No in-app purchases

Questions

Is Pace Ruler free?
Pace Ruler is free to download, with in-app purchases available.
Is MD Outdoors free?
MD Outdoors is free to download, with no in-app purchases.
Which has better reviews, Pace Ruler or MD Outdoors?
Pace Ruler is rated higher. Pace Ruler averages 2.6 out of 5 from 15 ratings, while MD Outdoors averages 1.8 from 36 ratings.
Do Pace Ruler or MD Outdoors have ads?
Pace Ruler shows ads; MD Outdoors does not.
Which is updated more often, Pace Ruler or MD Outdoors?
Pace Ruler ships an update every 6 months, and MD Outdoors every 6 weeks. Most recently, Pace Ruler was updated on October 23, 2026 and MD Outdoors on October 30, 2026.

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