Waze vs Google Maps

First thing to know is Google bought Waze in 2013 and began incorporating its traffic data in Google Maps, but the original app is still going strong for its unique take on navigation.

Waze has a devoted following who appreciate its whimsical graphics and its crowd-sourced traffic information, which makes the app feel almost like a video game. The rounded edges and cartoonish icons encourage users to contribute traffic events for points, resulting in real-time updates on your ETA. It even has celebrity voices available, so you can have your morning commute narrated by the likes of Morgan Freeman.

Google Maps has utilized Waze for its own navigation, even offering the option of finding traffic estimates at a future time. Changes on road conditions can trigger an optional rerouting, just like in Waze, though one advantage Google Maps has is it will also calculate routes for walking, biking and public transportation, making it preferable for city dwellers.

Waze, on the other hand, goes even deeper than Google for traffic updates. As users contribute data, your map populates with traffic pins signifying various obstructions like potholes and traffic accidents. It will even let you know if there’s a cop on the side of a road, which is ironic considering how much the app relies on drivers submitting information while they drive.

Waze’s strength might also be its biggest drawback, though. Users report being taken on routes with too many turns, whereas Google Maps usually has simpler directions on a clean interface. All in all, both apps are more than capable for getting you quickly to your destination; the only difference is what kind of information you want out of the app.