Which is the Best – Apple Maps, Google Maps, or Waze?

Top Navigation Applications

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If you’re a driver of a certain age you probably remember the days of watching the odometer like a hawk to count down the miles until the next exit, a backup road atlas, and printed directions to guide you. These days, electronic navigation is an option on almost every single cell phone and car. While most NAV applications provide the same general info, how and what information they present can be very different. With so many options available to choose from, how can you decide which one is the best? We have narrowed it down to our top 3 suggestions, Google Maps vs. Waze vs. Apple Maps. Apple CarPlay® is available in so many new vehicles that it may seem like the leader, but Waze and Google Maps have their own built-in benefits.

Google

The most powerful NAV application in this comparison is Google Maps as all of the data comes from Google itself.

The Advantages

• Vehicles are just the beginning – Google Maps can help you on your next bike trip, train ride, or walk.
• Traffic in real-time – See how much time that traffic jam is going to add to your trip.
• Street View, a Google Exclusive – See real pictures of your location on the map.
• Offline availability – No cell service, no problem. Download your map.

Apple

Apple Maps could be the most used NAV app, since CarPlay® is installed in many new cars. ​Apple Maps has one minor issue, it’s only found on iOS devices.

The Top Benefits

• Several different options for Navigation – Get map options for driving, walking, and public transportation.
• Pit Stops from Apple – Find unique attractions and nearby fuel stations.
• Look Around – See both a map of your location and images. Very useful if you are lost.

Waze

Waze was the first to feature some kind of user-generated traffic data, though other navigation apps now use the information too.

The Biggest Benefits

• Updates on traffic in real-time – Waze users input info while they are driving, which is then used to calculate the quickest route based on current conditions.
• More than directions – Receive data about detours, accidents, and police alerts.
• Facebook integration – Share your road trip with friends by posting your location.

Our Results Are In, The Winner is:

It should be no surprise, but the best NAV App depends on how you use it. If you get lost frequently, the Look Around feature on Apple Maps is helpful. If you use Navigation to follow your next cycling road trip, Google Maps is for you. But, if you just want to get from Point A to Point B in the quickest time, then Waze is your only choice. Google Maps, Apple Maps, and Waze all have unique standout features and you can not go wrong with any of them.