The ability to navigate a large city with ease will help in the long run. Fortunately, popular navigation apps like Citymapper and Google Maps, can assist you in finding your way.
In this guide, we will compare these two apps, discussing their coverage, purpose, user interface, data and reliability, offline capability, among others. By the end, you will have a better understanding of which app is best suited for your needs.
Google Maps vs. Citymapper: the difference between the two navigation apps
Let’s explore the basic differences between Google Maps and Citymapper under the following categories;
Coverage
In terms of coverage, Google Maps is available worldwide while Citymapper is only available in select cities, primarily in Europe and North America. This means that Citymapper may not be available in your area if you need it for a smaller region with limited public transportation.
Purpose
Google Maps is a general mapping and navigation tool, whereas Citymapper is specifically designed for urban navigation with a focus on public transportation options. Google Maps offers traditional mapping, navigation, and location search features. It provides directions for multiple modes of transportation, including driving, walking, cycling, and public transportation. It also offers turn-by-turn directions, live traffic updates, and street view imagery. Additionally, Google Maps provides a wide range of points of interest, reviews, and ratings.
Citymapper, on the other hand, specializes in public transportation and offers detailed information on bus, tube, train, biking, car, scooter, and walking routes. It provides real-time arrival and departure times, alternative routes, disruptions, pricing, CO2 output, and calories burned. The app also offers suggestions for cycle and scooter hire in London. Citymapper also excels in providing accurate and reliable real-time public transportation information, personalized trip planning, and the ability to compare travel options.
User Interface and Ease of Use
The choice between Google Maps and Citymapper ultimately comes down to personal preference. Google Maps focuses on providing a user-friendly interface for quick navigation, while Citymapper offers a more comprehensive and personalized urban travel experience.
Citymapper has a clean and intuitive interface with clear instructions and real-time updates on transport services. It provides more detailed information than Google Maps, such as the best tube station entrance and the best train car choice for your route. Google Maps, on the other hand, has a familiar interface and offers a wider range of features, which can make the interface feel busier. However, it provides visually appealing detailed information, including alternative routes and traffic conditions.
Also read: Difference between Google Maps and Waze
Data and Reliability
Google Maps sources data from various sources, including Street View, user contributions, and satellite imagery. Whereas, Citymapper primarily relies on official transportation data and real-time updates. However, Citymapper excels in providing accurate and reliable information for public transportation, with a strong focus on real-time updates.
Google Maps, on the other hand, is known for its accuracy and reliability across various modes of transportation, offering accurate directions, live traffic updates, and reliable estimated travel times. While Google Maps is generally dependable for both public transportation and driving, it does not offer the same real-time list of trains and buses as Citymapper.
Offline Capability
In terms of offline capability, Google Maps provides more complete coverage. Citymapper offers limited offline functionality, allowing you to save specific routes and maps but not whole areas. Google Maps, on the other hand, offers extensive offline capabilities, allowing you to download maps of specific areas or entire cities for offline use, including turn-by-turn directions. This feature is particularly useful when traveling abroad or in areas with poor network coverage.
Points of Interest and Local Information: Google Maps focuses on providing a wealth of information about the place you’re in, including attractions, restaurants, shopping, and tickets. Citymapper, on the other hand, focuses more on the route itself and provides limited information about points of interest and local businesses. While Citymapper shows some nearby places, the level of detail is more limited compared to Google Maps. Google Maps offers a vast database of points of interest, providing detailed information, reviews, photos, and ratings for various locations. It is a great tool for discovering nearby places and finding local recommendations. Additionally, Google Maps allows you to click through to websites to buy tickets and make restaurant reservations.
Integrations
Google Maps is integrated with other Google services such as Google Earth and Google Street View, while Citymapper has partnerships with various public transportation providers for real-time updates and payment options. Within Google Maps, you can easily switch between satellite and street views and select points of interest and destinations to go directly to their websites.
Meanwhile, Citymapper’s integrations are primarily with public transportation providers, offering real-time updates and pricing. However, it does not offer street view, reviews of places, web browsing, or satellite imagery.
Final Words
Both Google Maps and Citymapper are excellent navigation apps that serve different purposes. If you require a comprehensive urban travel experience with a focus on public transportation options, Citymapper is the app for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a user-friendly interface with a wider range of features and extensive offline capabilities, Google Maps is the better choice. Consider your specific needs and preferences to determine which app is best suited for you in navigating the bustling streets of a big city.
