Google Maps Driving Directions

Citizens from various countries consider Google Maps one of the most reliable mapping platforms. That is unsurprising, given that Google itself is the most popular search engine worldwide.

But do you know that Mapquest Driving Directions, a mapping service launched as early as 1966, has also been the common go-to option for millions? Some of our readers are curious about how Google Maps & Driving Directions perform against each other, so here is a closer look; keep scrolling to learn more!

1. Similarities

a. CORE FUNCTIONALITIES

Mapquest and Google Maps are twin pillars in the realm of road navigation.

For starters, both platforms offer diverse directions for travelers. Whether you only want a quick dash to the corner store or hop onto a grand odyssey across continents, these two will help plot your course with impressive precision.

No matter where your curiosity leads, these pocket atlases pinpoint your destination with real-time updates to ensure you never lose your way. Gone are the days of blind leaps into gridlocks!

b. ROUTE OPTIONS

Both driving directions services cater to diverse travel styles through a range of route options.

For instance, for those burning rubber against the clock, Mapquest and Google Maps will offer the fastest route option, which weaves you through a network of highways and arterial roads to shave minutes off your journey. Likewise, eco-conscious drivers can opt for the shortest route to save fuel and avoid vehicle tear and wear.

How about scenic soul seekers? Both platforms let them unwind and enjoy the sights with the scenic route/scenic drives option. Give yourself a chance to wind through quaint countryside roads and let the journey itself become the destination!

They also work excellently for an epic day trip or road trip planning; we suggest leveraging either of these two services to plot your routes with multiple stops. Feel free to add restaurants, points of interest, or even a friend’s house to optimize your itinerary at its best.

Needless to say, means of transportation are never an issue. Some people use Mapquest or Google Maps to avoid tolls/highways for backroads; others prioritize public transportation for an eco-friendly adventure. Meanwhile, passionate bikers can choose bike-friendly paths for a healthy dose of exercise.

c. USER-GENERARED CONTENT

With Mapquest and Google Maps, you are navigating streets and avenues through the collective wisdom of thousands, thanks to the power of user-generated content that binds these two services in a shared ecosystem.

First of all, the user reviews will give you a clear picture of the destination’s real-world offerings. They guide and warn, shaping your journey before you even set foot outside!

You will find all sorts of stories here, from an enthusiastic thumbs-up for a small restaurant to a warning about some bumpy shortcuts up the mountain. All those local wisdom and insider secrets - shared by those who have been there, done that - can elevate your journey to a whole new level.

And that is not all; star collections (from 0 to 5 stars) shine on thousands of restaurants, attractions, and businesses to guide you toward the best of the best. You can also peer directly into the lens of fellow explorers, thanks to colorful user-uploaded photos that paint a vivid picture of what awaits you ahead.

Beyond static reviews and photos, why not tap into the live pulse of the city? Mapquest and Google Maps display live traffic updates shared by other drivers, witness warnings about accidents or road closures, etc. Hence, you should find it easy to adjust your course based on the collective experience unfolding around you.

2. Differences

a. MAPQUEST HAS A SIMPLER INTERFACE

Its interface, free from the dizzying array of layers in Google Maps, brings in a breath of fresh air. You get the map, clear directions, real-time traffic alerts, and essential points of interest, all without the sprawl of unnecessary icons and buttons. There is no need to decipher or hunt for hidden features; just point, click, and go!

Thus, this stripped-down interface caters well to those who prefer a calm and focused experience. Older users (who find complex interfaces intimidating) or fans of digital minimalism will also find the change refreshing.

b. GOOGLE MAPS CONSUMES MORE DATA

Every tap and click leaves a huge digital footprint in today’s digital era, which explains why most navigation apps are notorious data consumers. However, Mapquest enters the scene as one of the best lightweight champions; you will not see it chug down gigabytes like most Google Maps features do.

How so? Mapquest’s streamlined online interface focuses mostly on the core functionalities, translating to less data used per navigation session. As a result, you get to your destination quickly without burning through the data plan.

Better yet, users no longer have to download cumbersome map regions to their devices. Instead, Mapquest optimizes its online maps for quick searches and on-the-go directions using minimal data. Less to track and share!

Of course, trade-offs exist. Google Maps offers a broader array of features, while Mapquest's offline capabilities are more limited. Its online navigation does not always perform at its best for more complex regions, either.

c. MAPQUEST OFFERS MORE PRIVACY

Unlike Google Maps' data-hungry features, Mapquest focuses on the essentials: getting you from point A to point B with minimal fuss. This design translates to less data collected, less stored, and less shared.

Although some Mapquest features are ad-funded, none of them target your online habits or outline your every step. You can navigate around anonymously, free from the feeling of being constantly watched!

d. MAPQUEST ALLOWS FOR MULTIPLE DESTINATIOBS AT ONCE

Another reason why Mapquest is the crowd’s favorite: it allows you to add multiple destinations (up to 26 stops) to your itinerary! Since its establishment, the platform has been best friends with travelers planning regular road trips or multi-destination errands.

You can enter each address one after the other in the "Add Stop" field. Feel free to reorder the stops by dragging and dropping them on the map.

There is no definitive answer.

Google Maps has more diverse features to suit adventurous modern travelers. On the other hand, Mapquest’s straightforward interface works better for those craving an easy and focused experience. Assess your preferences to settle on the best option, and write to us if you need more help.