OpenStreetMap

Beginner Recommended

OpenStreetMap is one of the best Google Maps alternatives. The free map, built by the community. The Google Maps alternative anyone can improve.

Information verified on July 22, 2026

Free and open. Migration difficulty : Easy (1/5)

Description

OpenStreetMap is the Wikipedia of mapping: a worldwide database built by volunteers. Anyone can contribute, correct, enrich. The data is free and open. It's the foundation on which Organic Maps, OsmAnd, and hundreds of other apps are built. The map itself is usable at openstreetmap.org, but the real strength is the apps that use it.

Key features

Free and open map
Editable by everyone
Downloadable data
No tracking
Global community
Free

Strengths

+ Free and collaborative data
+ Often more detailed than Google Maps in rural areas
+ No ad tracking

Weaknesses

− No integrated navigation (use OsmAnd/Organic Maps)
− Basic web interface
− No Street View

Recommended for

Map viewing without tracking
Base for private navigation apps

OpenStreetMap vs Google Maps: the comparison

Comparison between OpenStreetMap and Google Maps
Criterion	OpenStreetMap	Google Maps
Price	Free and open.	Free
Targeted ads on your data	No	Yes (Google ad profile)
Source code	Open (auditable)	Proprietary
Migration difficulty	Easy (1/5)	—

Comparison

OpenStreetMap is the free map database behind the apps in this category. For everyday navigation, Organic Maps is the simplest; OsmAnd, the most complete.

This topic is chapter 10 of my book

It answers these questions, among others:

how do you switch to a tracking-free map, from install to cutting off Location History?
how do you keep Google's business listings without feeding your profile?
and how do Apple Maps and public transport apps hold up?

Forthcoming 22/10/2026 from Éditions Eyrolles

Discover the book