Which is the Best Navigation App – Google Maps, Apple Maps, or Waze?

 

View Inventory

The Best Navigation Apps

Need to discover the best navigation apps?

Depending on how old you are, you probably recall a time when you used directions that were printed out, patiently checking the odometer to track the miles until your next turn off, and a backup road atlas to guide you on long drives. Now, computerized navigation is available on almost every brand-new vehicle and mobile phone. While all navigation applications give the same basic info, how and what information they present can vary greatly. With so many unique options, how can anyone figure out which one is the best? We’ve concluded that our top 3 picks are Google Maps vs. Waze vs. Apple Maps. CarPlay® may feel like the frontrunner because it is available in so many new cars, but Waze and Google Maps have their own unique built-in benefits as well.

Google Maps

Google Maps is the most powerful NAV application in this review as all of the info is provided by Google itself.

Google Maps Biggest Benefits

• Not only for cars – Google Maps can help you on your next walk, bike ride, or train ride.
• Real-time updates – See how much time that traffic jam is going to add to your trip.
• Street View, a Google Exclusive – See real pictures of your location.
• Offline availability – Download your map. No cellphone reception, no problem.

Apple

Apple Maps could very well be the easiest NAV app to use, thanks to CarPlay® integration with many new vehicles. ​The one issue with Apple Maps is that it is only found on iOS devices.

Apple Maps Biggest Benefits

• Pit Stops – Find nearby fuel stations and other attractions.
• Navigation options – Get map options for public transportation, driving, and even walking routes.
• Look Around – See both images and a map view of your location. This feature can be helpful if you get lost.

Waze

Despite other navigation applications now using some form of user-generated traffic info, Waze was the first to really use the technology too.

Waze Biggest Benefits

• Integration with Facebook – Post your location and share your road trip.
• Not just directions – Get real-time info about road closures, accidents, and speed traps.
• Updates as they happen – Other drivers input information as they drive, which is then used to calculate the fastest way to your destination.

The Winner

It should be no surprise, but the best Navigation App really depends on how you use it. If you happen to get lost a lot, the Look Around feature on Apple Maps will be extremely helpful. If you use NAV for your next cycling trip, then Google Maps is for you. But, if you just need to get somewhere in the fastest time, then Waze is your best choice. Apple Maps, Waze, and Google Maps all have their own standout features and you truly can not go wrong with any of them.