Apple Maps vs Google Maps vs Waze

 

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Depending on how old you are, you probably recall a backup road atlas, printed directions, and the days of patiently checking the odometer to count down the miles until your next exit to help guide you on road trips. Nowadays, computerized navigation is an option on nearly every cell phone and vehicle. While nearly all navigation services provide the same basic information, how and what information they present can be quite different. With so many choices to select from, how can one figure out which is the best? We have narrowed it down to our top 3 picks, Google Maps vs. Waze vs. Apple Maps. Apple CarPlay® is an option in so many new vehicles that it may seem like the leader, but Google Maps and Waze have their own unique benefits.

Google

The most powerful NAV app in this comparison is Google Maps because all of the info comes from the massive Google search engine.

Advantages of Google Maps

• Available offline – No cell service, no problem. Download your map.
• Street View – View actual images of your location.
• Traffic updates in an instant – See how much time that traffic jam is going to add to your trip.
• More than only vehicles – If you want to walk, bike, or take a train then Google Maps is ready.

Apple

Apple Maps might be the most prevalent NAV app, thanks to CarPlay® integration with many new cars. ​Apple Maps has one minor issue, drivers are required to have an iOS device to use it.

Apple Maps Benefits

• Look Around presented by Apple – See both a map of your location and images of the area. This feature can be very helpful if you are lost.
• Apple Pit Stops – Find nearby fuel stations and other attractions.
• Navigation options – Get maps for public transportation, driving, and even walking routes.

Waze

Waze was the first to feature some kind of crowd-sourced traffic info, though other NAV applications now use the information too.

The Top Benefits of Waze

• Not just directions – Receive real-time data about construction, incidents, and even police alerts.
• Integration with Facebook – Share your road trip with friends by posting your location.
• Real-time traffic info – Waze users input information while they drive, which is then used to update your route to give the quickest route based on current conditions.

Our Results Are In, The Winner of Google Maps vs Apple Maps vs Waze is:

It should be no surprise, but the best NAV App depends on what drivers need. If you get lost frequently, you can use the Look Around option on Apple Maps. If you use Navigation to follow your next cycling road trip, Google Maps is your best choice. However, if you just need to get from Point A to Point B in the fastest time possible, then Waze is your choice. Google Maps, Apple Maps, and Waze all have features and you can’t go wrong, no matter which one you pick.