Google Maps has long been the go-to maps and location data API provider – and it makes sense. Google's solutions are robust and reliable, with a wealth of mapping data available for over 200 countries. With 1 billion monthly active users (and over 5 million active sites and apps using it), you would think that Google Maps is uncontestable. However, ever since Google hiked its Maps API prices back in 2018, developers have been turning to more affordable options. Is it possible to find a budget-friendly alternative to Google Maps without compromising on functionality? Let's find out.
The Google Maps API Dilemma
Google Maps APIs have left a bitter taste in the mouths of many developers. A price hike is understandable – but raising prices this drastically was a controversial move. Before the 2018 pricing change, if a website or app exceeded 25,000 dynamic map views per day, they would need to pay $0.50 for every 1,000 additional requests. That price rose to $5 per 1,000 requests: an increase of 1,400%.