Waze vs Google Maps vs Apple Maps

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Best GPS App for your Vehicle

Uncover the best GPS app for your vehicle.

If you’re a driver of a certain age you may remember the days of watching the odometer to track the miles until the next turn off, an emergency road atlas, and directions that were printed to guide you on long drives. Nowadays, computerized navigation is available on nearly every single brand-new cell phone and vehicle. While most NAV applications give the same kind of info, what and how the info is shown can vary greatly. With so many unique options to choose from, how can you figure out which one is the best? We have decided on our top 3 picks are Waze vs Apple Maps vs Google Maps. CarPlay® is available in so many brand-new cars that it may feel like the frontrunner, but Google Maps and Waze have their own built-in benefits.

Google

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

Biggest Benefits of Google Maps

• Traffic in an instant – See how much time that traffic jam is going to add to your trip.

• Not only for cars – If you want to walk, bike, or take a train then Google Maps is ready.

• Street View – See real images of your desired location on the map.

• Available offline – Download your map. No cell reception, no worries.


Apple

Apple Maps could very well be the easiest NAV app to use, thanks to CarPlay® integration with many new vehicles. ​Apple Maps has one disadvantage, it is only found on iOS devices.

Apple Maps Biggest Advantages

• Apple Pit Stops – Find fuel stations that are close and other attractions.
• Several unique options for Navigation – Apple has maps for walking and public transportation, along with driving routes.
• Look Around by Apple – See both images and a map view of your area. This feature can be useful if you are lost.

Waze

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

The Advantages

• Updates on traffic in real-time – Other drivers input info as they drive, that info is used to figure out the fastest route based on current conditions.
• More than directions – Receive data about road closures, roadside incidents, and police alerts.
• Integration with Facebook – Update your timeline and share your road trip with friends and family.

Our Results Are In, The Winner is:

It should not be a shock, but the best Navigation App really depends on what drivers need. If you happen to get lost easily, the Look Around feature on Apple Maps will be beneficial. If you use NAV for your next big cycling road trip, then Google Maps has you covered. However, if you just need to get to your destination in the shortest time, Waze is your best choice. Google Maps, Apple Maps, and Waze all have unique standout features and you really can’t go wrong, no matter which one you pick.