Mapbox: Custom map styles, vector tiles and location APIs for developers. Mapbox GL JS: Mapbox's WebGL library for vector maps and 3D.
| Mapbox | Mapbox GL JS | |
|---|---|---|
| Category | Basemaps & Map Tiles | Map Libraries & SDKs |
| Pricing model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Starts at | See website | See website |
| Free tier | Monthly free web map loads and API requests | Billed through Mapbox map loads |
| Open source | No | No |
| Software licence | — | Proprietary (v2+) |
| API | Yes | — |
| Platforms | Web, JavaScript, iOS, Android, API | JavaScript |
| Made by | Mapbox | Mapbox |
| Commercial use | Allowed | Allowed |
| Export / print images | With conditions | With conditions |
| Offline / caching | With conditions | Check terms |
| Visits from MapTools | 8 | 2 |
| Visit | Visit |
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 alternativesMapbox 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.