Software Alternatives, Accelerators & Startups

JOSM VS MapComplete

Compare JOSM VS MapComplete and see what are their differences

JOSM logo JOSM

JOSM is a Java-based editor for OpenStreetMap (OSM).

MapComplete logo MapComplete

MapComplete is an OpenStreetMap viewer and editor. It shows map features on a certain topic, and allows to see, edit and add new features to the map. It can be seen as a webversion crossover of StreetComplete and MapContrib.
  • JOSM Landing page
    Landing page //
    2019-08-28
  • MapComplete Landing page
    Landing page //
    2023-08-23

JOSM features and specs

  • Comprehensive Editing Features
    JOSM offers a wide range of editing tools and functionalities, which allows users to accurately create and edit complex map features.
  • Customizability
    Users can customize the interface and functionality through plugins, offering a tailored experience to suit individual mapping needs.
  • Offline Editing
    JOSM allows for offline editing of map data, enabling users to work without an internet connection and upload changes once back online.
  • Detailed Map Styles
    The software supports various map styles and imagery, enabling users to view and edit maps in different visual formats.
  • Advanced Validation Tools
    JOSM incorporates validation features to help identify and correct errors in mapping data, ensuring high data quality.

Possible disadvantages of JOSM

  • Steep Learning Curve
    JOSM can be overwhelming for beginners due to its comprehensive feature set and complex interface.
  • Java Dependency
    As a Java application, JOSM requires users to have Java installed, which can be a hindrance on devices where Java is not natively supported.
  • Resource Intensive
    The application can be demanding on system resources, requiring adequate processing power and memory for optimal performance.
  • Limited Mobile Compatibility
    JOSM is primarily designed for desktop use and does not have native mobile app versions, limiting its use on mobile devices.
  • Initial Setup Complexity
    Setting up JOSM with necessary configurations and plugins can be complex and time-consuming for new users.

MapComplete features and specs

  • User-Friendly Interface
    MapComplete offers an intuitive and easy-to-navigate interface, making it accessible for users with varying levels of technical expertise.
  • Thematic Focus
    Allows users to contribute to specific themes or topics, such as cycling infrastructure or public art, which helps in organizing and streamlining contributions.
  • Direct OSM Integration
    Enables direct editing and contribution to OpenStreetMap (OSM), ensuring that user contributions are efficiently integrated into the wider OSM database.
  • Mobile Friendly
    Optimized for mobile devices, allowing users to contribute data and make edits on-the-go.
  • Community Engagement
    Encourages community involvement by enabling focused contributions to areas of local interest and significance.

Possible disadvantages of MapComplete

  • Limited Features Compared to Full OSM Editors
    Lacks some advanced editing features found in comprehensive OSM editors like JOSM or iD, which may be necessary for complex tasks.
  • Variable Data Accuracy
    As with any crowdsourced platform, the accuracy of data can vary based on user inputs, potentially leading to inconsistencies.
  • Dependence on User Participation
    Relies heavily on active user participation for data accuracy and up-to-date information, which can fluctuate over time.
  • Theme-Specific Limitations
    Focused themes might limit contributions outside of the predefined themes, potentially restricting user inputs in certain scenarios.
  • Learning Curve for New Users
    While user-friendly, new users unfamiliar with OSM or thematic mapping might face a learning curve in understanding how to contribute effectively.

JOSM videos

Virtual Intern JOSM training

More videos:

  • Review - Using MapRoulette and JOSM Paint Styles
  • Review - Making a JOSM Mapper's Life Simpler and Easier

MapComplete videos

2021: Introduction and review of MapComplete

Category Popularity

0-100% (relative to JOSM and MapComplete)
Tech
48 48%
52% 52
Payments
50 50%
50% 50
Website Builder
46 46%
54% 54
PDF Tools
55 55%
45% 45

User comments

Share your experience with using JOSM and MapComplete. For example, how are they different and which one is better?
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Social recommendations and mentions

MapComplete might be a bit more popular than JOSM. We know about 23 links to it since March 2021 and only 18 links to JOSM. We are tracking product recommendations and mentions on various public social media platforms and blogs. They can help you identify which product is more popular and what people think of it.

JOSM mentions (18)

  • Google will no longer hold onto people's location data in Google Maps
    I modified an open source GPX recording app called Trackbook to turn it into a 24/7 recorder, and I wrote about it here: https://voussoir.net/writing/obsessed_with_gpx I have a few recent commits in my repository that I haven't put into a versioned APK yet though. The output GPX files can be viewed on the PC with JOSM: https://josm.openstreetmap.de/. - Source: Hacker News / over 1 year ago
  • Farmland inside a wood
    JOSM has quite convenient merge/split functions, making deletion and re-tracing unnecessary. I took care of the issue in https://www.openstreetmap.org/changeset/134052747. Source: about 2 years ago
  • What is your favorite app for creating MTB GPX routes?
    Record your track and upload it onto Open Street Map. That's the map service that Strava and Garmin utilize. You'll be able to add the trail for everyone to see regardless of the program as long as it uses OSM. JOSM is a really good program to edit OSM and here's a video to get you started on how to use it. Source: over 2 years ago
  • QGIS is the mapping software you didn't know you needed
    Great for preparing data for OSM, but JOSM is the only desktop editor for actually making contributions. Source: over 2 years ago
  • I'm Losing Sleep over Java
    One that comes to my mind would be JOSM: https://josm.openstreetmap.de/. - Source: Hacker News / over 2 years ago
View more

MapComplete mentions (23)

  • Happy Birthday OpenStreetMap
    Just want to point out that this user is the creator of the wonderful tool MapComplete (https://mapcomplete.osm.be) which helps you adding more information to the data available in the OSM database. If you have some free time and have local knowledge of your area, I really suggest giving this tool a try, you can choose between multiple themes (which will show different quests) and add info that you know the most. - Source: Hacker News / almost 2 years ago
  • Selling Machines
    I'm thinking about making a mapcomplete theme specifically for all types of vending machines, but I'm lacking the time for it. Source: about 2 years ago
  • Searching for an open Café in my town on desktop
    Mapcomplete is just the website for your requirements and for desktop use. Source: about 2 years ago
  • OpenStreetMap is in trouble - a critical review of Microsoft's 'Bing Map Builder'
    They aim for a simple (aka reduced) editor to use - if they work out some of the technical issues - they kind of deliver that promise. But of course, I like MapComplete more as "simple editor". (Disclaimer: that's what I made). Source: over 2 years ago
  • OpenStreetMap is in trouble – a critical take on Bing Map Builder
    The reason that I haven't pursued a gamification approach with https://mapcomplete.osm.be is twofold: - I'm focusing on other usability issues (and features) first. - Source: Hacker News / over 2 years ago
View more

What are some alternatives?

When comparing JOSM and MapComplete, you can also consider the following products

Vespucci - Vespucci is the first OpenStreetMap editor for Android.

StreetComplete - Help to improve the OpenStreetMap with StreetComplete!

iD - iD is an OpenStreetMap editor programmed in JavaScript with the aims to be simple and friendly.

Merkaartor - Merkaartor is an OpenStreetMap editor for Unix, Windows and Mac OSX (prerelease, Intel only)...

Go Map!! - Go Map!! is an iPhone/iPad editor for adding cartographic information to OpenStreetMap.

Osm Go! - Map your environment simply and fast, directly from the app. Keep your eyes wide open and contribute to OSM while on the run.