Apple Maps vs Google Maps vs Waze

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The Top GPS Navigation Applications for your Car

Identify the top GPS navigation applications for your car.

Depending on how old you are, you might remember a backup road atlas, printed directions, and the days of watching the odometer like a hawk to track the miles until the next exit to help guide you. These days, electronic NAV is an option on nearly every new car and mobile phone. While most NAV applications produce the same kind of info, how and what information they present can be very different. With so many different choices to select from, how can anyone decide which is the best? We have narrowed it down to our top 3 choices, Google Maps vs. Waze vs. Apple Maps. CarPlay® may feel like the frontrunner because it is available in so many brand-new cars, but Google Maps and Waze have their own unique advantages as well.

Google Maps

The most robust map application in this review is Google Maps as all of the info comes from Google itself.

Google Maps Biggest Advantages

• Updates in real-time – See how much time that traffic jam is going to add to your trip.
• More than just vehicles – If you want to walk, bike, or take a train then Google Maps is ready.
• Street View, a Google Exclusive – View actual pictures of your desired location on the map.
• Offline availability – No cell service, no problem. Download your map.

Apple

Since CarPlay® is installed in many new cars, Apple Maps might be the most used navigation app available today. ​Apple Maps has one disadvantage, drivers are required to have an iOS device to use it.

Apple Maps Biggest Benefits

• NAV options – Apple has maps for public transportation, driving, and even walking.
• Pit Stops by Apple – Find gasoline stations that are nearby and other attractions.
• Look Around – See both images and a map of your location. This feature can be very helpful if you are lost.

Waze

Even though other navigation apps now feature some form of crowd-sourced traffic information, Waze was the first to really use the tech as well.

Top Benefits of Waze

• Updates on traffic as they happen – Waze users update information as they are driving, that information is used to update the route to give the fastest route based on road conditions.
• Get more than directions – Get real-time information about construction, roadside incidents, and even speed traps.
• Facebook integration – Share your road trip with friends by posting your location on your timeline.

The Winner is:

It shouldn’t be a surprise, but the best Navigation App really depends on what you need. If you get lost easily, drivers can use the Look Around feature on Apple Maps which can be helpful. If you use Navigation for your next big cycling road trip, then Google Maps is for you. But, if you just need to get to your destination in the quickest time, Waze is your choice. Apple Maps, Waze, and Google Maps all have standout features and you can not go wrong with any of them.