These are the 6 best alternatives to Google Maps

Google Maps is the de facto navigation application for many. If you need to make a change, there are many options. But you don’t have to try them all; here are the best Google Maps alternatives to help you narrow down your search.

If you have an iPhone and are invested in the Apple ecosystem, the best alternative to Google Maps is Apple Maps. Despite being a poor app in its early days, Apple has improved it over time to become one of the best navigation apps on the market, as seen in our Apple Maps vs. Google Maps. It offers an intuitive interface and is easy to use, just like Google Maps.

Apple Maps includes directions, location sharing, place cards, and interactive 3D views to help users better understand places. It also has a dedicated bird’s-eye view feature called Flyover, which lets you view supported cities from above, and many guides to help you find things to see and do in a particular city. Apple Maps can also help you beat traffic with real-time traffic data.

Download: Apple Maps for iOS

Like the other options on this list, HERE WeGo is a free and reliable navigation app if you want to switch from Google Maps. It offers various navigation features with an easy-to-use interface. It has two views: a default normal view like Google Maps and a second satellite view for a better perspective of the area. For navigation, it offers turn-by-turn navigation and allows you to plan routes in advance with stops.

HERE WeGo provides turn-by-turn navigation options for various modes of transportation, including driving, biking, walking, public transportation, and even car sharing services. It also has real-time traffic updates, perfect for finding the best routes at peak times to avoid traffic jams. An offline mode is also available depending on your needs.

Download: Here WeGo for Android | iOS (free)

Although it doesn’t support global navigation like the other options on this list, it stands out as a navigation app for its up-to-date satellite images and maps, real-time traffic updates, optimized routing for fuel savings, and multi-point routes (allowing for multiple stops).

Points of interest such as gas stations, restaurants, banks and more can be searched for in the app, making it easy for visitors to navigate any city. The only limitation of MapQuest is that it is currently only available in two markets (US and Canada), unlike our other Google Maps alternatives.

Download: MapQuest for Android | iOS (free)

Although Google also owns Waze, it’s a solid navigation app that lets you switch from Google Maps. First, its community focus makes it a more attractive alternative. In addition, it is worth switching from Google Maps to Waze for many reasons. Waze’s main goal is to be the best navigation application using crowdsourced information from drivers on the network for up-to-date traffic information.

It prioritizes the fastest routes with automatic rerouting based on current traffic, and you can plan and customize your route in advance (like avoiding toll roads), making it a must-have when getting from one point to another.

Download: Waze for Android | iOS

OpenStreetMap (OSM) is an open source, community-driven mapping platform that has been around for years. It’s easy to get started and you don’t need an account. Using OpenStreetMap, navigating from one point to another is as easy as using Google Maps.

You can choose the starting point, the destination and the mode of transport (car, bicycle or on foot). It has offline navigation support and you can view the map in normal mode or 3D. It supports trip recording and includes points of interest on the map for those who love adventure.

Download: OsmAnd for Android | iOS (free, in-app purchases available)

MAPS.ME uses open source OpenStreetMap data for navigation. However, what makes the app stand out as a solid alternative to Google Maps is its primary focus on offline use, allowing you to download entire regions or even countries. Suppose you love adventure and travel and would like to have the offline navigation support offered by Google Maps, MAPS.ME is one of the best options for that. Right out of the gate, when you install the app, it asks you to download a map of the region or country you want to view.

This offline focus makes MAPS.ME one of the best offline navigation apps on Android and iOS. The interface is easy to use and offers all the basics you need from a navigation app like turn-by-turn navigation, places and guides. The only downside to its offline focus is that you don’t get real-time updates and its public transport routes may be limited.

Download: MAPS.ME for Android | iOS (free, subscription available)

Google Maps may be the most popular navigation app on the market, but it’s not the only option available. There are many alternatives, but we’ve listed the best ones you should consider if you want to make the switch. Try each and see what works best for your personal needs.