Woman uses Google Maps and Waze side by side for weeks to work out which is truly best and one clearly wins

Navigation apps have many different purposes and come in different forms, but the debate often circles back to Google Maps and Waze and how they help you drive around without getting lost .

So, to really reveal which one was the best overall, one woman tested them both for weeks.

From AI integration to offline use, each and every element was scrutinized.

Both performed well, but only one could take the crown, and the standout option may come as a surprise.

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Let the ultimate Waze vs Google Maps battle commence

We all know the pain of not knowing a route and having to use navigation apps to get from A to B.

Waze and Google Maps are often dubbed the most popular apps, and a journalist over at ZDNET tested them both for weeks to see which one was really the best.

Real-time re-routing: Waze or Google Maps?

For most drivers, time really is of the essence, and with Waze, the app takes re-routing seriously to get you there on time.

Google Maps, on the other hand, makes you choose a new route, rather than doing it automatically, which Waze does by default, according to the tester.

So, for real-time navigation, Waze wins.

Using maps offline? Use this app

When road-tripping signal can be lost easily, but don’t fear, as Google Maps has you covered.

The tester explained that with Google Maps, you can download whole areas with directions, which means offline use is a lot more accessible than Waze.

So, well done, Google, you win this one.

AI assistance and appearance

Oh, Google Maps, you’ve done it again.

Thanks to Gemini being integrated into Google Maps, the app’s AI assistance provides great help to users.

Even though Waze does use Gemini, the ability on the Google App is far greater, with the app able to find restaurants and even share details, all from voice commands.

When it comes to the way the app looks, too, Google took home the crown again, thanks to extra elements that help you to explore the area, businesses, and buildings in detail.

Traffic reporting and cop awareness were great on Waze

It seems Waze has reclaimed its place in the race.

On the Waze app, the traffic reporting feature impressed the tester with alerts while driving. In fact, you can even tell the app if the hazard is still there.

Google does have reporting, too, but with Waze automatically re-routing as per the tester, it wins this one.

Travel and compatibility

When traveling, navigation apps are often the first port of call, so it’s essential to have a detailed system, which Google delivers with ease.

Compatibility with devices is also a huge factor, and Google Maps comes integrated on many Android phones.

Ok Google, we see you.

The battle was close, but who won?

Both apps put up a big fight and were both very impressive in their own ways.

This tester had the final say, though, and while Waze is favored by many, Google Maps was victorious this time.

The debate will likely be a forever thing, though, and it ultimately comes down to personal preference.

If you like one more than the other, stick to your ride or die.

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