Software Alternatives, Accelerators & Startups

OpenStreetMap VS Mapstr

Compare OpenStreetMap VS Mapstr and see what are their differences

OpenStreetMap logo OpenStreetMap

OpenStreetMap is a map of the world, created by people like you and free to use under an open license.

Mapstr logo Mapstr

Your places, your world!
  • OpenStreetMap Cover Photo
    Cover Photo //
    2024-01-08
  • Mapstr Landing page
    Landing page //
    2023-09-17

OpenStreetMap features and specs

  • Open Source
    OpenStreetMap (OSM) is an open-source project, allowing free access to map data and the ability to contribute and modify the maps. This encourages widespread collaboration and innovation.
  • Up-to-date Information
    Due to its large community of contributors, OSM often has up-to-date and detailed information, especially in urban areas. Users can quickly add new roads, businesses, and other updates.
  • Customization
    Users have the flexibility to customize maps for specific needs, such as creating specialized maps for hiking, cycling, or public transportation.
  • Global Coverage
    OSM offers extensive global coverage, which can be especially useful in regions where commercial map services might be limited or outdated.
  • Ethical and Transparent
    Being community-driven and open, OSM provides a more ethical choice compared to commercial alternatives that may have hidden data collection practices.

Possible disadvantages of OpenStreetMap

  • Data Quality Variability
    The quality and detail of the data can vary significantly between different regions depending on the number and expertise of local contributors.
  • Learning Curve
    For new users, especially those unfamiliar with GIS (Geographic Information System) concepts, there can be a learning curve to effectively use and contribute to OSM.
  • Lack of Professional Support
    Unlike commercial map services, OSM does not offer professional customer support, which can be a disadvantage for businesses requiring reliable assistance.
  • Potential for Inaccuracies
    As a crowd-sourced project, there is a potential for inaccuracies or vandalism, which might not be immediately corrected.
  • Performance
    Some users may experience slower performance when loading large datasets or using complex features, due to reliance on third-party servers and tools.

Mapstr features and specs

  • User-friendly Interface
    Mapstr provides an intuitive and easy-to-navigate interface, making it accessible for users of all tech levels to add and organize their favorite places.
  • Customizable Maps
    Users can create personalized maps by saving locations, categorizing them, and adding notes or tags for better organization and retrieval.
  • Collaborative Features
    Mapstr allows you to share your maps with friends or the public, facilitating collaboration and discovery of new places based on recommendations.
  • Integration with Other Services
    The app offers integration with services like Google Maps, making it easier to access routes and detailed location information.

Possible disadvantages of Mapstr

  • Limited Offline Functionality
    Mapstr requires an internet connection for most features, which can be inconvenient for users looking to access their maps without connectivity.
  • Potential Privacy Concerns
    Sharing location data and maps with others can raise privacy issues if not managed carefully, especially if sensitive locations are involved.
  • Feature Set May Be Overwhelming
    The variety of features and customization options may feel overwhelming to users seeking a simpler map-saving experience.
  • Reliance on User-generated Content
    The accuracy and usefulness of the maps largely depend on user submissions, which can vary in quality and comprehensiveness.

Analysis of OpenStreetMap

Overall verdict

  • OpenStreetMap is widely regarded as a valuable resource due to its open-data approach, community-driven updates, and versatility. It is an excellent choice for those who need customizable, up-to-date maps and prefer open-source solutions.

Why this product is good

  • OpenStreetMap (OSM) is good because it is a collaborative project that provides freely accessible and editable map data. It is powered by a large community of volunteers who continually update and refine the information, ensuring that it remains current and comprehensive. The data from OSM can be used for various applications such as navigation, analysis, and even gaming, thanks to its open licensing (ODbL). It encourages innovation and accessibility, allowing developers and organizations to create and customize maps without the restrictions typically associated with proprietary alternatives.

Recommended for

  • Developers seeking open-source map data for applications
  • Organizations looking for customizable and cost-effective mapping solutions
  • Individuals interested in contributing to open data projects
  • Researchers conducting spatial analysis
  • Anyone needing access to worldwide map data without licensing fees

Analysis of Mapstr

Overall verdict

  • Mapstr is generally well-regarded, especially by those who travel frequently or enjoy discovering new places. Its seamless integration with contacts and ease of sharing locations with friends enhance its usability, making it a strong choice for anyone looking to organize and personalize their mapping experience.

Why this product is good

  • Mapstr is a digital tool that allows users to store, categorize, and share favorite places on a dynamic map. It's noted for its ease of use, intuitive interface, and the ability to collaborate and share maps with friends, making it convenient for personal use or group planning. Users appreciate the ability to save locations with tags and notes, helping them organize trips and revisit favorite spots with ease.

Recommended for

  • Travel enthusiasts wanting to keep track of favorite places
  • Individuals who like to collaborate on trip planning
  • People who enjoy discovering and sharing unique locations
  • Those looking for a personalized mapping tool for local exploration

OpenStreetMap videos

OpenStreetMap: The map that saves lives | CNBC International

More videos:

  • Review - Switching away from Google Maps : Here Maps, Bing Maps, OpenStreetMap...
  • Review - OpenStreetMap Download / Installation On Garmin Edge 520 GPS Device. Bike Computer

Mapstr videos

SCOM0954 - Tip - Mapstr - Preview

More videos:

Category Popularity

0-100% (relative to OpenStreetMap and Mapstr)
Maps
84 84%
16% 16
Travel
0 0%
100% 100
Web Mapping
100 100%
0% 0
Mobile Maps
100 100%
0% 0

User comments

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Reviews

These are some of the external sources and on-site user reviews we've used to compare OpenStreetMap and Mapstr

OpenStreetMap Reviews

7 Alternatives to Google Maps for Navigation
OpenStreetMap (OSM) is a free, open-source, community-driven mapping and navigation app. OSM was created in 2005. It has grown to include a global mapping community with activists and thousands of volunteers.
18 Top Google Places API Alternatives for Points of Interest Data in 2022
OpenStreetMap offers a free, open-source map of the world with which you can access information about businesses, transport and points of interest. Planet OSM is a feature of OpenStreetMap that lets you extract millions of points of interest for free.
Source: traveltime.com
Top 15 Google Maps Alternatives (2024 Edition)
Maps.me is an open-source mobile-only service and an excellent alternative to Google Maps. It uses the OpenStreetMap database and helps you download maps to use them offline. Therefore, you can save a lot on your mobile data if you use this service.
9 Google Maps Alternatives to Use in 2022
OpenStreetMap is a simple web mapping tool stuffed with all the features you would expect with any web mapping service. The vivid maps explain different layers, help in accurate route planning, and provide cycling and walking routes.
Source: geekflare.com
Top 5 Open-Source Google Maps Alternatives in 2022
Last but not least, Qwant Map is one of those Google Maps alternatives that is open source and free. Just like Google Maps, this interactive maps software offers rich search capabilities. In addition, you can search for places such as restaurants, hotels, markets, and more. Moreover, it lets you search for nearby places by tracking your location. Qwant Map is based on...

Mapstr Reviews

We have no reviews of Mapstr yet.
Be the first one to post

Social recommendations and mentions

Based on our record, OpenStreetMap seems to be a lot more popular than Mapstr. While we know about 130 links to OpenStreetMap, we've tracked only 6 mentions of Mapstr. 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.

OpenStreetMap mentions (130)

  • Rekichizu: A Modern Take on Japan's Historical Maps
    Finally, to ensure a visually harmonious experience, the design of the integrated modern map, which utilizes OpenStreetMap (OSM) data, has been carefully styled to match the aesthetic and color palette of the original Rekichizu historical map. - Source: dev.to / 8 months ago
  • Waterway Map
    You can go to https://openstreetmap.org/ , zoom in and enable the map data layer. From there history is accessible. - Source: Hacker News / over 2 years ago
  • Bike rack capacity
    Hi! I am working on a project mapping bike racks around my city on OpenStreetMap. One of the attributes that I tag is the rack's capacity, but I haven't come to a conclusion about the capacity of these wave-shaped racks:. Source: over 2 years ago
  • Get full name of a admin unit in a admin unit hierarchy like Brooklyn, Kings County, New York, United States of America
    I need the bounding boxes of all adminstrative units in a specific region from the largest (e.g. The state) to the smallest (whatever this is called) including the full name of the district. What I mean by that is what is displayed on openstreetmap.org when I search for e.g. Brooklyn: it will be displayed in the search results as "Brooklyn, Kings County, New York, United States of America" โ€“ the names joined from... Source: over 2 years ago
  • Protomaps โ€“ A free and open source map of the world
    It's OpenStreetMap (ODbL) and Natural Earth (public domain) currently * http://openstreetmap.org * http://naturalearthdata.com. - Source: Hacker News / over 2 years ago
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Mapstr mentions (6)

  • Apps for saving your favorite locations
    A friend told me about Mapstr, which seems like exactly what youโ€™re looking for! https://mapstr.com/. Source: about 3 years ago
  • [Mapstr] Export Google Maps favourite places to import to Mapstr App
    Is there any way to export Google Maps favourite places so that I can import them in Mapstr? Source: about 3 years ago
  • Best neighborhood to stay for foodies in Berlin?
    I built an app for this previously but never pursued it as gaining market traction was too expensive. Basically a map based instagram. There is a French app called Mapstr that is along these lines too https://mapstr.com/. Source: over 3 years ago
  • [Idea Validation] City notes (Travel)
    For example, take a look at https://mapstr.com. I tried to use it, but it is bloated. Source: about 4 years ago
  • Anyone know somewhere to get Italian American style sandwiches in London?
    If you are the sort of person who likes custom maps of places you like to visit. You definitely need mapstr in your life. Check it out, I love it. https://mapstr.com. Source: almost 5 years ago
View more

What are some alternatives?

When comparing OpenStreetMap and Mapstr, you can also consider the following products

Google Maps - Find local businesses, view maps and get driving directions in Google Maps.

Foursquare - Foursquare is all about helping you find new ways to explore your city.

HERE WeGo - HERE WeGo - Maps - Routes - Directions - All ways from A to B in one

Tripomatic Maps - The world's first online maps designed for travelers

Apple Maps - Maps features an all-new design with smart features to make finding and getting to your destination easier than ever.

Yelp - The free Yelp mobile app is the fastest and easiest way to search for businesses near you. Download it now to get started.