3 Free Alternatives to Google Maps

Google Maps is by far the most popular navigation app. But it is not the only app to map out the fastest or shortest route from A to B. We have listed three free alternatives for you.

Why these three? We looked at ease of use, possibilities and how up-to-date the app is. Think of new roads and roadworks.

1. Waze (Android, iPhone, Windows Phone)

Waze is completely free and you are not bothered by advertisements. Unlike Google Maps, the app only offers car navigation; as a walker or cyclist, it is therefore of little use to you. The app scores (very) well in terms of ease of use, topicality and reliability. That is to say, it did not often send us in the wrong direction. On the other hand, the app did not always choose the most logical route. Recalculating a route also took quite a long time. The app uses as many MBs as Google Maps. Only on the part of offline navigation does the app score somewhat less.

2. HERE WeGo (Android, iPhone)

Unlike Waze, HERE WeGo can also be used by hikers and cyclists, just like Google Maps. There is also an offline navigation option. You have to accept small advertisements for this, but that is not very annoying. Calculating the routes is fast. Downsides are the topicality of the information and the directions are sometimes confusing. Overall a good app!

3. Apple Maps (iPhone)

Apple Maps scores a bit less well than the previous two, but is all in all a reasonable app. The routes are calculated and recalculated quickly, but offline navigation is practically impossible. The topicality of the information also leaves much to be desired and the data consumption is high. Street names are also often mispronounced, which causes the necessary confusion. Clearly the least of the three, but not bad at all!

What app do you use to navigate? Let us know in a comment!

Source: Kampioen 7/8, July 2017, ANWB