# CmapTools vs Labster

The clearest difference is in-app purchases: Labster at none against CmapTools's 1. Labster also leads on device support (3 vs 1). CmapTools's advantage is review sentiment (36% vs 25%) and iOS requirement (7.0 vs 14.0). On price, rating, ratings volume and update cadence there is nothing between them.

Both are free to download. CmapTools sells 1 one-off in-app purchase. Labster asks for nothing beyond the download.

CmapTools holds the better App Store score, 2.8 against 2.6. Both are backed by a comparable volume of ratings — 16 and 34 respectively. Written reviews point the same way: 36% of CmapTools's written reviews are positive against 25% of Labster's.

Both ship on a similar rhythm, roughly monthly. The most recent releases landed on October 29, 2026 and October 24, 2026 respectively.

## The numbers

| Metric | CmapTools | Labster |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Price | Free | Free |
| Rating | **[2.8 (16 ratings)](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/cmaptools/id927987108/reviews)** | [2.6 (34 ratings)](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/labster/id1600663267/reviews) |
| Number of ratings | 16 | **34** |
| Positive reviews | **35.6% of reviews** | 25.0% of reviews |
| In-app purchases | Yes | **No** |
| Ads | No | No |
| Update frequency | Monthly | Monthly |
| Monetization | Free with in-app purchases | **Free** |
| Size | 9 MB | 141 MB |
| Requires iOS | **7.0** | 14.0 |
| Devices | iPad | **iPhone, iPad, iPod** |
| Age rating | 17+ | 12+ |
| Developer | [Florida Institute for Human & Machine Cognition](https://appshunter.io/developer/925120272) | [Labster](https://appshunter.io/developer/1015898697) |

## What reviewers say

### CmapTools

[App page](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/cmaptools/id927987108)

Create and share concept maps and knowledge models directly on your iPad. Easily build complex diagrams with drag-and-drop functionality and a full style palette. Synchronize your work with the Cmap Cloud for seamless access across devices.

**Highlights:** Concept map construction, Knowledge model building, Drag-and-drop interface, Full style palette, Cmap Cloud synchronization, Cross-device access

**Features:** macOS Compatibility

**In-app purchases (1)**

| Purchase | Price | Billing |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Enable Sync to Cmap Cloud and Sharing Options | $4.99 | one-time |


### Labster

[App page](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/labster/id1600663267)

Access a library of interactive science simulations for education. This platform offers virtual lab experiences for students and educators. Requires purchased access to use.

**Highlights:** Interactive science education platform, Virtual lab simulations, Access to content library, Designed for educators and students, Requires purchased access

**Features:** macOS Compatibility

**In-app purchases:** none


## Frequently asked questions

### Is CmapTools free?

CmapTools is free to download, with in-app purchases available.

### Is Labster free?

Labster is free to download, with no in-app purchases.

### Which has better reviews, CmapTools or Labster?

CmapTools is rated higher. CmapTools averages 2.8 out of 5 from 16 ratings, while Labster averages 2.6 from 34 ratings.

### Do CmapTools or Labster have ads?

Neither CmapTools nor Labster shows ads.

### Which is updated more often, CmapTools or Labster?

CmapTools ships an update monthly, and Labster monthly. Most recently, CmapTools was updated on October 29, 2026 and Labster on October 24, 2026.

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*Compared by [AppsHunter](https://appshunter.io/) from daily US App Store data. Review summaries are generated from verbatim App Store reviews.*