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

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Drivers of a certain age may recall a backup road atlas, printed directions, and the days of watching the odometer like a hawk to track the miles until your next exit to guide you. Nowadays, electronic navigation is an option on almost every cell phone and car. While most NAV apps give the same general information, how and what information they present can be very different. With so many unique apps to select from, how can you figure out which is the best? We have decided on our top 3 picks are Apple Maps vs. Google Maps vs. Waze. CarPlay® may seem like the frontrunner because it is installed in so many brand-new vehicles, but Google Maps and Waze have their own unique built-in advantages.

Google

The most robust map app in this comparison is Google Maps because all of the info is provided by the Google search engine.

Google Maps Benefits

• Available offline – No cellphone reception, no worries. Download your map.
• Street View – See real images of your desired location on the map.
• Instant updates – See how much time that traffic jam is going to add to your trip.
• More than vehicles – Google Maps can help you on your next walk, bike ride, or train ride.

Apple

Apple Maps might be the most prevalent NAV app, thanks to CarPlay® integration with many new cars. ​Apple Maps has one disadvantage, drivers are required to have an iOS device to use it.

Advantages

• Pit Stops from Apple – Find nearby gasoline stations and other attractions.
• Several options for Navigation – Get maps for public transportation, driving, and even walking routes.
• Look Around – See both images and a map of your area. This feature can be helpful if you are lost.

Waze

Even though other navigation applications now use some sort of crowd-sourced traffic information, Waze was the first navigation application to really use the tech too.

Waze Benefits

• Real-time information – Waze users input information while they drive, which is used to calculate the quickest route based on road conditions.
• Not only directions – Receive data about construction, accidents, and speed traps.
• Integration with Facebook – Update your timeline with your location and share your road trip.

The Winner is:

It should be no surprise, but the best Navigation Application really depends on what you need. If you happen to get lost easily, you can use the Look Around option on Apple Maps. If you use Navigation to follow your next cycling road trip, then Google Maps has you covered. However, if you just want to get to your destination in the fastest time, then Waze is your best choice. Google Maps, Apple Maps, and Waze all have their own standout features and you truly can not go wrong with any of them.