OpenStreetMap: The free, editable map of the world built by volunteers. Protomaps: Self-host an entire world basemap as a single PMTiles file.
| OpenStreetMap | Protomaps | |
|---|---|---|
| Category | Basemaps & Map Tiles | Basemaps & Map Tiles |
| Pricing model | Free | Open source |
| Starts at | Free | Free |
| Free tier | — | — |
| Open source | Yes | Yes |
| Software licence | ODbL (data) | BSD-3-Clause (code); ODbL (OSM data) |
| API | — | — |
| Platforms | Web, Data download | Web, JavaScript, Command line |
| Made by | OpenStreetMap Foundation | — |
| Commercial use | Allowed | Allowed |
| Export / print images | Allowed | Allowed |
| Offline / caching | Allowed | Allowed |
| Visits from MapTools | 10 | 9 |
| Visit | Visit |
OpenStreetMap 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 alternativesProtomaps features
- PMTiles single-file tile archives
- Daily world basemap builds from OpenStreetMap
- Serve from S3, R2 or any static host
- Open basemap styles for MapLibre
When you host the tiles yourself, only the OpenStreetMap attribution and ODbL terms apply.
Protomaps alternativesSummary based on public information. Check each provider's current pricing and terms.