Google Maps Vs. Windows Live
Google Maps and Bing Maps, formerly Windows Live Maps, have comparable features, but there are also a few differences. Some of those differences include live webcam streams, map apps and the detail of aerial imagery. Although most of the features may be the same, you may find a preference in using one online map service over another. Test out both services and see which site works best for your location-finding needs.
Other People Are Reading
-
Map Features
-
Google Maps and Bing Maps share some key features, such as the typical road map, aerial view, traffic indicators and driving directions. The traditional map view shows the cities, roads, attractions and other points of interest. However, when it comes to basic mapping Google Maps provides a much different layout compared to Bing Maps. Which layout is easier to use and understand is a matter of personal preference.
Aerial View
-
Both mapping websites have aerial views. What Bing Maps calls the Bird's Eye feature is the same as Google Maps' Terrain view. Bing Maps offers a different quality of aerial view imagery than Google Maps as of October 2011. The aerial images on Bing Maps are often times closer to the sight and displays at a 45-degree angle, allowing you to see the details of the objects more clearly. Google Maps doesn't angle its aerial images, as it provides a true overhead view.
-
Layers
-
Both Google Maps and Bing Maps products let you layer the data or views on top of each other. For example, you can view roads embedded on top of the terrain view while seeing the traffic indicators. This feature is known as layering. Each layer can be turned on or off as you please.
Webcams
-
A newer feature to Google Maps is Webcams mode, which pinpoints different webcams throughout the world located on the map view. Clicking the webcam image pulls up a box that shows the webcam stream in real-time. Some of the webcams are updated more frequently than others, but the cameras show real-world views from their locations. You can find a similar feature on Bing Maps under the Map Apps section.
Map Apps
-
One service Bing Maps offers that Google Maps doesn't is the Map Apps feature, which is basically an embedded layer of data that shows you specific information based on the location you're viewing on the map. For example, you can get local gas prices in your area by using the Gas Prices app. Another useful one is the Parking Finder app that helps you locate the closest or cheapest parking lots in your city.
-
References
Resources
- Photo Credit Ethan Miller/Getty Images News/Getty Images
