Mapbox: Custom map styles, vector tiles and location APIs for developers. OpenStreetMap: The free, editable map of the world built by volunteers.
| Mapbox | OpenStreetMap | |
|---|---|---|
| Category | Basemaps & Map Tiles | Basemaps & Map Tiles |
| Pricing model | Freemium | Free |
| Starts at | See website | Free |
| Free tier | Monthly free web map loads and API requests | — |
| Open source | No | Yes |
| Software licence | — | ODbL (data) |
| API | Yes | — |
| Platforms | Web, JavaScript, iOS, Android, API | Web, Data download |
| Made by | Mapbox | OpenStreetMap Foundation |
| Commercial use | Allowed | Allowed |
| Export / print images | With conditions | Allowed |
| Offline / caching | With conditions | Allowed |
| Visits from MapTools | 8 | 10 |
| 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 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.