Google Maps is a good all -rounder, whether on foot, on the bike or in the car. However, you also have to partially compromise with the versatility of the app: Google Maps needs a lot of mobile data and to date there is no function for the shortest route.
Especially for people with a company car or day trippers in areas with a bad network, alternatives can be interesting.
We present the following three recommended navigation apps in addition to Google Maps:
| App | Main advantages | Ideal for ... | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Waze | Community-based traffic reports | Commuter & frequent driver | For free |
| Sygic | Offline navigation & shortest route instead of the fastest | Weekend trips & vacation trips, Company car & kilometer leasing | 7 days free of charge, then 19.99 euros/year |
| TomTom GO | Precise route optimization | Everyone who is looking for a reliable alternative | 7 days free of charge, then 3.99 euros/month or 19.99 euros/year |
Waze
Pro
- Confection and speed camera warnings from the community
- Dynamic route adjustment for traffic problems
Against
- No option for the shortest route (only the fastest)
- Can not be used offline
Wazenow belongs to Google, but remains an independent app. It is particularly focused on frequent drivers who valueReal-time traffic informationplace. Members of the Waze Community also report traffic jams, speed camera, accidents, petrol station prices and available parking spaces in Germany.
A major difference to Google Maps is that according to users in the Play Store Routen, Waze adapts significantly more aggressive as soon as problems occur on the track - while Google Maps usually only suggest alternative routes. As a result, Waze can often optimize travel times more.
DieCommunity-based navigationis the greatest strength and weakness of the app. In cities, Waze can guide drivers via side streets and alleys, for example, to save a few seconds of travel - which is not always the most pleasant or most sensible route.
You can find waze for free inGoogle Play Storeand imApp Store.
Sygic
Pro
- full-fledged offline navigation
- shortest route (instead of just the fastest)
SygicIs a navigation app of the Slovakian Sygic AS company. It is aimed at frequent drivers, commuters and vacationers.
Particularly interesting: Sygic can toonavigateWithout you before howmust. Another point that can be interesting for company cars and kilometers leasing users: For navigation with Sygic, you can not only the fastest, but alsoChoose the shortest route.
From Google Maps, Sygic differs primarily in the design by the3D representation of buildings. In contrast to Google Maps and the other two apps presented, Sygic also offersHead-up-Display (HUD). Here navigation instructions are projected directly onto the windshield to prevent distraction from driving.
However, after a 7-day trial phase, 19.99 euros per year are due.
Sygic can be found inGoogle Play Storeand imApp Store.
TomTom GO
Pro
- Precise enforcement of congestion and reliable real-time traffic data
- Offline cards with regular updates
Against
- Not an option for the shortest route (only the fastest or most efficient)
- paid
TomTom GOis the navigation app of the Dutch company TomTom. The card design differs more from Google Maps than Waze.
TomTom GO uses real-time traffic data from a large network of vehicles and sensors to identify traffic jams at an early stage and to calculate alternative routes. According to the manufacturer, the app also reliably indicates tempo limits. Tomtom Go advertises with reliable offline cards like Sygic.
Like Sygic, TomTom GO also costs 19.99 euros or 3.99 euros a month. However, you can test the app for a week free of charge.
You can find TomTom Go inGoogle Play Storeand imApp Store.
Conclusion
All three apps are rated very well in the app stores. You can definitely give Waze a chance. But also with Sygic and Tomtom Go, the free probwehr is also ideal for a short vacation.
Sygic is most worthwhile for people with company cars or kilometers leasing. If you are explicitly about the shortest route, you can see whether you are satisfied with the app and, if necessary, complete a subscription.
However, all the alternative navigation apps have to be clear: they are intended for the car. Google Maps remains a particularly good all -rounder for pedestrians and people who also want to use public transport on the way or to call up restaurant information.
What do you think about it? Do you use one of the apps or maybe a completely different one? What is most important to you on your navigation app? And maybe we forgot points? Write us your opinion and experience in the comments!
