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Manila Bulletin devider Technews devider Waze vs. Google Maps - Which one gets you there faster?

Waze vs. Google Maps - Which one gets you there faster?

Published Mar 30, 2024 12:25 am

It seems like getting stuck in traffic has become a part of our daily routine.  Thankfully, we have our app saviors to help us get through the worst of it. Or, at the very least, help us get to our destinations with as little fuss as possible. 

Yes, we’re talking about Waze and Google Maps. Some of you may scoff, Google Maps? Do people even use that here? Apparently, yes. I’ve seen a lot of cars on ride-sharing platforms using Google Maps. I even know a few people who prefer it over Waze. I have used Google Maps myself, whenever I walk, more often during business trips abroad. 

So, for you, which will it be? Maybe you’re using Waze more often and have never tried Google Maps or vice-versa. 

Technically both apps are under Google. Waze was developed by Waze Mobile and was acquired by Google in 2013. This isn’t about Google competing on its apps. But, in my opinion, the usage between Google Maps and Waze is more situational.

Google Maps relies on historical data and Google Street View. It also relies on user-generated reports. Waze, on the other hand, relies on real-time data, which is dependent on user-generated reports. The community powers it as you get not only traffic updates but also hazards and possible reasons for the traffic, like floods or accidents.

Waze is always the way to go if you will be driving. But if you’re using other modes of travel, like walking, biking, or public transport, Google Maps can be customized for you. Also, Google Maps is offline, which is incredibly useful. Also, the UI is nicer and cleaner than Waze, which can get cluttered with many notifications blocking the entire screen.

In summary, both Waze and Google Maps are excellent choices. Waze might be the preferred option for daily driving to get to your destination with the fastest route possible with less traffic. And Google Maps is excellent for non-driving situations. 

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