Nominatim: Open-source geocoding with OpenStreetMap data. what3words: Every 3m square in the world has a unique three-word address.
| Nominatim | what3words | |
|---|---|---|
| Category | Geocoding, Routing & Location APIs | Geocoding, Routing & Location APIs |
| Pricing model | Open source | Freemium |
| Starts at | Free | See website |
| Free tier | — | Free app; API plans |
| Open source | Yes | No |
| Software licence | GPL-3.0 (software), ODbL (data) | — |
| API | Yes | Yes |
| Platforms | API, Linux | Web, iOS, Android, API |
| Made by | — | what3words |
| Commercial use | With conditions | Check terms |
| Export / print images | Allowed | Check terms |
| Offline / caching | Allowed | Check terms |
| Visits from MapTools | 2 | 1 |
| Visit | Visit |
Nominatim features
- Forward and reverse geocoding
- OpenStreetMap data
- Self-hostable
- Structured and free-form search
The public nominatim.openstreetmap.org instance allows at most 1 request per second and no bulk geocoding. Self-host for heavy or commercial workloads.
Nominatim alternativeswhat3words features
- Three-word addresses
- Apps and API
- AutoSuggest
- Offline SDK
Summary based on public information. Check each provider's current pricing and terms.