CesiumJS: Open-source 3D globe and 3D Tiles rendering in the browser. Mapbox GL JS: Mapbox's WebGL library for vector maps and 3D.
| CesiumJS | Mapbox GL JS | |
|---|---|---|
| Category | Map Libraries & SDKs | Map Libraries & SDKs |
| Pricing model | Open source | Freemium |
| Starts at | Free | See website |
| Free tier | — | Billed through Mapbox map loads |
| Open source | Yes | No |
| Software licence | Apache-2.0 | Proprietary (v2+) |
| API | — | — |
| Platforms | JavaScript | JavaScript |
| Made by | — | Mapbox |
| Commercial use | Allowed | Allowed |
| Export / print images | Allowed | With conditions |
| Offline / caching | Check terms | Check terms |
| Visits from MapTools | 4 | 2 |
| Visit | Visit |
CesiumJS features
- 3D globe with terrain
- 3D Tiles streaming
- Time-dynamic data
- Works with Cesium ion
Mapbox GL JS features
- Vector maps and globe view
- 3D terrain and buildings
- Custom layers
- Tight integration with Mapbox Studio
Version 2 and later require a Mapbox account and are billed per map load.
Mapbox GL JS alternativesSummary based on public information. Check each provider's current pricing and terms.