CesiumJS: Open-source 3D globe and 3D Tiles rendering in the browser. Google Earth: Explore the world in 3D with satellite imagery.
| CesiumJS | Google Earth | |
|---|---|---|
| Category | Map Libraries & SDKs | 3D Cities & Digital Twins |
| Pricing model | Open source | Free |
| Starts at | Free | Free |
| Free tier | — | — |
| Open source | Yes | No |
| Software licence | Apache-2.0 | — |
| API | — | — |
| Platforms | JavaScript | Web, iOS, Android, Windows, macOS |
| Made by | — | |
| Commercial use | Allowed | Not allowed |
| Export / print images | Allowed | With conditions |
| Offline / caching | Check terms | Not allowed |
| Visits from MapTools | 4 | 4 |
| Visit | Visit |
CesiumJS features
- 3D globe with terrain
- 3D Tiles streaming
- Time-dynamic data
- Works with Cesium ion
Google Earth features
- Global imagery and 3D
- Projects and placemarks
- KML import
- Historical imagery (Pro)
Commercial or promotional use of Google Earth imagery is prohibited. A handful of static images may be exported for non-commercial uses such as blogs or education, with attribution. Embedding Google Earth in websites or apps is not allowed.
Google Earth alternativesSummary based on public information. Check each provider's current pricing and terms.