MapTools
OpenStreetMap
vs
USGS EarthExplorer

OpenStreetMap: The free, editable map of the world built by volunteers. USGS EarthExplorer: Search and download Landsat and other USGS archives.

OpenStreetMapUSGS EarthExplorer
CategoryBasemaps & Map TilesSatellite & Aerial Imagery
Pricing modelFreeFree
Starts atFreeFree
Free tier——
Open sourceYesNo
Software licenceODbL (data)—
API——
PlatformsWeb, Data downloadWeb, API
Made byOpenStreetMap FoundationUS Geological Survey
Commercial useAllowedAllowed
Export / print imagesAllowedAllowed
Offline / cachingAllowedAllowed
Visits from MapTools108
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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 alternatives

USGS EarthExplorer features

  • Landsat archive back to 1972
  • Aerial photography
  • Elevation data
  • Bulk download

Landsat data is public domain in the United States. Credit USGS as the source.

USGS EarthExplorer alternatives

Summary based on public information. Check each provider's current pricing and terms.