ArcGIS Location Platform: Esri basemaps, geocoding and routing as developer APIs. Mapbox: Custom map styles, vector tiles and location APIs for developers.
| ArcGIS Location Platform | Mapbox | |
|---|---|---|
| Category | Basemaps & Map Tiles | Basemaps & Map Tiles |
| Pricing model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Starts at | See website | See website |
| Free tier | Monthly free usage | Monthly free web map loads and API requests |
| Open source | No | No |
| Software licence | — | — |
| API | Yes | Yes |
| Platforms | Web, API, JavaScript | Web, JavaScript, iOS, Android, API |
| Made by | Esri | Mapbox |
| Commercial use | Paid plan | Allowed |
| Export / print images | With conditions | With conditions |
| Offline / caching | Check terms | With conditions |
| Visits from MapTools | 1 | 8 |
| Visit | Visit |
ArcGIS Location Platform features
- Esri basemap styles
- Geocoding and places
- Routing and service areas
- Data hosting
Mapbox features
- Mapbox Studio style editor
- Mapbox GL JS and mobile SDKs
- Geocoding, directions, isochrone APIs
- Satellite and terrain layers
- Static Images API
Commercial use is allowed under Mapbox's terms. Static and printed maps must be attributed like a photo credit. Images from the Mapbox Studio print export require contacting Mapbox sales before use. Offline use is limited to the mobile SDKs' offline features.
Mapbox alternativesSummary based on public information. Check each provider's current pricing and terms.