MapTools
BlenderGIS
vs
Google Maps Platform

BlenderGIS: Import GIS data, terrain and basemaps into Blender. Google Maps Platform: Google's maps, places, routes and 3D tiles APIs.

BlenderGISGoogle Maps Platform
Category3D Cities & Digital TwinsBasemaps & Map Tiles
Pricing modelOpen sourcePaid
Starts atFreeSee website
Free tier—Monthly free usage per API (see current pricing)
Open sourceYesNo
Software licenceGPL-3.0—
API—Yes
PlatformsPlugin, Windows, macOS, LinuxWeb, JavaScript, iOS, Android, API
Made by—Google
Commercial useCheck termsPaid plan
Export / print imagesCheck termsNot allowed
Offline / cachingCheck termsNot allowed
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BlenderGIS features

  • Import Shapefile and rasters
  • DEM to 3D terrain
  • OpenStreetMap import
  • Georeferenced scenes
BlenderGIS alternatives

Google Maps Platform features

  • Maps JavaScript API and mobile SDKs
  • Places, Geocoding and Routes APIs
  • Photorealistic 3D Tiles
  • Map styling
  • Street View

Paying for the API grants online display rights, not download rights. Content may not be pre-fetched, stored or cached except where the terms allow, and offline use is prohibited. Place IDs may be stored. Google Maps content must not be shown on a non-Google map.

Google Maps Platform alternatives

Summary based on public information. Check each provider's current pricing and terms.