App Review: Citymapper, Google Maps or Apple Maps? – Which one reigns supreme?
Right, so you’re off to explore a new city. Exciting stuff! But before you get lost down a cobbled alleyway or end up on the wrong bus (we’ve all been there), I think you’ll need a trusty navigation app. In this digital age, our phones are our compass and map combined, but with so many options, which one is the best for navigating the urban jungle? I’ve put three of the big players – Citymapper, Google Maps, and Apple Maps – through their paces to see which comes out on top.
Round One: Citymapper – The Public Transport Champion
Citymapper is the darling of many city folk, and for good reason. It excels at navigating public transport. Planning a journey is a breeze, offering a plethora of options, including buses, trains, tubes, trams, and even walking or cycling routes. The interface is clean and intuitive, displaying real-time departures, disruptions, and even estimated arrival times down to the minute. A particularly nifty feature is the “super router,” which combines various modes of transport for the quickest route. Fancy a hop on the bus followed by a quick cycle? Citymapper’s got you covered.
However, Citymapper’s strength is also its weakness. Its focus is squarely on public transport, meaning its usefulness diminishes somewhat when driving is your primary mode of transport. While it does offer walking and cycling directions, they’re not as comprehensive as Google Maps. Also, its coverage, while extensive in many major cities, isn’t completely universal. If you’re venturing off the beaten track, you might find its information lacking some-what.
The Good: Excellent for public transport, real-time updates, intuitive interface, multi-modal routing.
The Not-So-Good:Limited usefulness for driving, coverage not universal, primarily focused on larger cities.
Round Two: Google Maps – The All-Rounder
Google Maps is an absolute behemoth in the navigation world. Its comprehensive mapping data is second to none, covering virtually every corner of the globe. Whether you’re driving, walking, cycling, or using public transport, Google Maps offers detailed directions, estimated travel times, and real-time traffic updates. For drivers, the lane guidance and speed limit warnings are invaluable. The interface is familiar and easy to use, and its integration with other Google services is a bonus too.
Google Maps’ strength lies in its versatility. It’s a reliable all-rounder, performing admirably in most situations. However, its public transport information, while decent, doesn’t quite match the finesse of Citymapper. It can sometimes be a bit too focused on the quickest route, neglecting potentially more scenic or convenient options. And let’s be honest, sometimes the sheer amount of information on the screen can feel a tad overwhelming at times, though they have actually started now on minimising the details being displayed.
The Good: Comprehensive mapping data, excellent for driving, reliable all-rounder, integrates with other Google services.
The Not-So-Good: Public transport information not as detailed as Citymapper, can feel overwhelming, sometimes prioritises speed over convenience.
Round Three: Apple Maps – The Up-and-Comer
Apple Maps has had a bumpy ride since its launch, but it’s been steadily improving. Its interface is sleek and visually appealing, and its integration with other Apple devices is seamless. For walking and cycling directions, Apple Maps often offers clear and concise instructions. However, its public transport information still lags behind Citymapper and Google Maps in terms of detail and accuracy, particularly outside major cities.
While Apple Maps has made strides, it still feels like it’s playing catch-up. only ever so slightly. Its coverage isn’t as extensive as Google Maps, and its public transport data can be unreliable. It’s a decent option for basic navigation, especially if you’re heavily invested in the Apple ecosystem, but it’s not quite ready to be the primary navigation app for serious exploration.
The Good: Sleek interface, seamless Apple integration, good for walking and cycling.
The Not-So-Good: Public transport information lacking, coverage not as extensive as Google Maps, reliability can be an issue.
The Verdict: It Depends…
So, which app reigns supreme? Honestly, it depends on your needs.
- For public transport aficionados: Citymapper is your best bet. Its detailed information and multi-modal routing make navigating the urban jungle a breeze.
- For drivers and all-rounders: Google Maps is the reliable workhorse. Its comprehensive mapping data and real-time traffic updates are invaluable.
- For Apple enthusiasts and basic navigation: Apple Maps is a decent option, but it’s not quite ready for prime time.
Personally, I often find myself using a combination of Citymapper and Google Maps. Citymapper for planning complex public transport journeys, and Google Maps for pretty much everything else. I am an apple user as of current, however Apple Maps is not quite my taste just yet.
Ultimately, let’s face it, the best navigation app is the one that best suits your individual needs and travel style. Happy exploring!
