Google Maps Platform: Google's maps, places, routes and 3D tiles APIs. OpenStreetMap: The free, editable map of the world built by volunteers.
| Google Maps Platform | OpenStreetMap | |
|---|---|---|
| Category | Basemaps & Map Tiles | Basemaps & Map Tiles |
| Pricing model | Paid | Free |
| Starts at | See website | Free |
| Free tier | Monthly free usage per API (see current pricing) | — |
| Open source | No | Yes |
| Software licence | — | ODbL (data) |
| API | Yes | — |
| Platforms | Web, JavaScript, iOS, Android, API | Web, Data download |
| Made by | OpenStreetMap Foundation | |
| Commercial use | Paid plan | Allowed |
| Export / print images | Not allowed | Allowed |
| Offline / caching | Not allowed | Allowed |
| Visits from MapTools | 7 | 10 |
| Visit | Visit |
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 alternativesOpenStreetMap features
- Global map data under ODbL
- Editable by anyone
- Data extracts and full planet downloads
- Foundation for most open map services
Data is licensed under ODbL: free to use, including commercially, with attribution. Produced works such as map images can carry any licence; derivative databases must stay under ODbL. The standard tile server at tile.openstreetmap.org follows a strict usage policy and must not be used for heavy traffic or bulk downloading.
OpenStreetMap alternativesSummary based on public information. Check each provider's current pricing and terms.