Google Maps, Waze, or Apple Maps – Which Should I Choose?

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The Top GPS Navigation Applications for your Car

Identify the top GPS navigation applications for your car.

Drivers of a certain age probably remember a time when you used directions that were printed, patiently watching the odometer to count down the miles until your next exit, and a backup road atlas to help guide you. Now, digital navigation is available on almost every brand-new mobile phone and car. While nearly all navigation services produce the same basic information, what and how the information is displayed can vary greatly. With so many options, how can you figure out which is the best? We have narrowed it down to our top 3 choices, Google Maps vs. Waze vs. Apple Maps. Apple CarPlay® may feel like the leader because it is installed in so many brand-new cars, but Google Maps and Waze have their own unique advantages as well.

Google Maps

Google Maps is the most robust navigation app in this comparison as all of the information comes from the massive Google search engine.

The Biggest Benefits of Google Maps

• More than cars – If you want to take a train, walk, or bike then Google Maps can handle it.

• Instant updates – See how much time that traffic jam is going to add to your trip.

• Street View, a Google Exclusive – View real pictures of your location on the map.

• Download capable – Download your map. No cell service, no worries.


Apple

Apple Maps could very well be the easiest NAV app to use, thanks to CarPlay® integration with many brand-new vehicles. ​Apple Maps has one minor issue, it’s only found on iOS devices.

Apple Maps Biggest Advantages

• Several unique options for NAV – Get map options for driving, walking, and public transportation.
• Apple Pit Stops – Find nearby fuel stations and other attractions.
• Look Around presented by Apple – See both images and a map view of your area. Very helpful if you are lost.

Waze

While other NAV applications now have some kind of crowd-sourced traffic data, Waze was the first to really use the technology too.

Waze Biggest Advantages

• Updates on traffic as they happen – User update info as they are driving, which is then used to calculate the quickest path to your destination.
• Not just directions – Receive real-time info about construction, accidents, and even police alerts.
• Facebook integration – Post your location and share your road trip with friends.

The Winner

It should be no surprise, but the best NAV Application depends on how you use it. If you happen to get lost a lot, the Look Around option on Apple Maps is helpful. If you use NAV to plan your next cycling trip, Google Maps is your best choice. However, if you just want to get to your destination in the fastest time, then Waze is your choice. Google Maps, Apple Maps, and Waze all have unique standout features and you really can not go wrong with any of them.