Free GPS on Android: GPS applications have become very popular for everyday use. Thanks to them, it’s no longer necessary to use the old dusty maps in the car (and the pleasure of folding them up) or the old stand-alone GPS that dates back to granny’s time with its mouldy cartography. Just to keep up with the times, we offer you our top of the best applications to get Free GPS on Android.
Free GPS on Android: the best apps to replace Google Maps
Waze:the most complete GPS
We no longer present Waze, surely the best Android GPS available on Google Play. The GPS navigation is extremely complete and the strength of this application undoubtedly lies in its community. Indeed, each user of the application can participate in improving navigation data and thus help others find the best routes and save time.
Thus, the route can be automatically recalculated according to traffic conditions. The cheapest petrol stations or voice guidance will make the application your best companion on the road. A points and rewards system within the community encourages you to help each other, making Waze an up-to-date and ever more complete application.
Speed cameras are no longer displayed accurately on Waze, but are included in the danger zone warning, without further details. Be careful, soon the government could soon ban Waze-type applications showing the position of law enforcement agencies in real time. The service supports automatic learning in order to help us in our daily journeys. This allows us to anticipate certain problems we might encounter on our way.
HEREWeGo: mobile data thrifty, clear and precise
Formerly named Nokia HERE, the app has quickly converted many users to Android. It must be said that the tool has many qualities, starting with a very clear interface, accurate information, and recent mapping. You can download offline maps and consult public transport timetables.
The icing on the cake is that its use is completely free of charge. You just need to create an account to download the high definition audio guidance or local mapping to the device.
Because, yes, it is possible to use this GPS app without any data connection! The service also allows you to consult GetYourGuide – Trip Advisor – BlaBlaCar – Expedia – Car2Go – Wikipedia – Hotels Combined.
Maps.me: for frequent travellers
MAPS.ME is one of the best applications for pedestrians, hikers and travellers. All maps and functions are free of charge, the maps are available offline, it is a great tool for walking or when you are abroad.
The app is based on the OpenStreetMap database which is updated by contributors. An ideal open source solution. Available worldwide, it helps to identify points of interest and access hiking trails.
CoPilot: another very useful offline application
The Android GPS navigator “CoPilot” is a very effective application that will give you the best route whether you are walking or driving. It can be used offline without the need for a network connection. To do this you will need to download it to your Android phone or tablet. So you can use it abroad at no extra cost. It also includes points of interest to show you hotels or restaurants for example.
You can download free maps of a country or region. If you travel and want to add new maps, you will have to pay through the in-app purchase system. Again, you will be entitled to 14 days of use with the full functionality of the application. Beyond that, you will have to pay for additional features such as voice navigation or 3D maps.
ViaMichelinGPS: a daily must-have
Above all, Michelin has built up a solid reputation with its ViaMichelin website, which allowed users to prepare their route from their computer. Here it is a completely free application that requires a mobile data connection to be used.
All the functions popular with drivers are there. Danger zones in France and Europe (the famous speed cameras are no longer exactly referenced), speed limits, without forgetting the inevitable alerts in case of exceeding the authorized speed. A very practical feature to avoid getting caught with some salty fines.
SygicGPS Navigation and Maps: TomTom maps in a free application
The Android GPS app “Sygic” is one of the most popular on the Google Play Store. Like its competitors, it allows you to download maps to use them offline on your phone or tablet.
When it comes to navigation data, TomTom maps are mainly used, which is a guarantee of quality. One of the main advantages of this application is the free update of maps and points of interest (restaurants, petrol stations, etc.).
The 3D display of maps and landscapes also makes it easier to find your way around. On the other hand, some features are not free of charge, such as the traffic display, which is almost indispensable if you want to avoid certain traffic jams. Three alternative routes are also offered when you choose a destination, so you can go faster or cheaper if you want to avoid tolls, for example.
Osmand: the application based on OpenStreetMap
Osmand is an excellent navigation applic
ation that exploits the free OpenStreetMap data. Complete, it has all the main features you’d expect from such a tool: voice guidance, offline mode, support for different stages of the route… Wherever you are on the planet, you won’t get lost!
Another positive point is that it is not only useful for car drivers. Osmand is also particularly effective for cyclists, hikers and others thanks to its consideration of cycle tracks, paths, alternative routes…
MapFactor: speed cameras, offline mode and OpenStreetMap11
In addition to the classic features, the Android GPS navigator “MapFactor” alerts you to approaching speed cameras with an audio warning. Remote controls are also available to send a new destination or message directly to the navigation system. For maps, OpenStreetMap is still used, a collaborative system that allows you to add and modify maps worldwide.
Offline navigation, 2D and 3D display as well as the search for the nearest points of interest are all features you will find in this MapFactor application that has already convinced thousands of users. TomTom Business Maps are also available for purchase as an option.
Note that there is a Truck version of the application that allows trucks, vans and caravans to know the height of underpasses or the capacity of certain bridges.
Mappy: the ultra complete GPS
An excellent alternative to Google Maps, Mappy is a great alternative to Google Maps thanks to the completeness of its offer. The GPS displays a multitude of means of transport (thanks to a flock of partners): car, public transport, taxi, plane, Uber, train, BlaBlaCar, coach, bike, self-service bike or pedestrian. To top it all off, Mappy also lists electric scooters (including COUP! for example). In particular, the application allows you to access the maps without having an internet connection. Mappy also has a clear and precise interface, especially for motorists with real-time road traffic.
We hope this list of has helped you find your best application for free GPS on android. There are more on the Play Store that are worth a look, so if your favourite Android GPS browser isn’t on the list, feel free to share it with us! You can also find our selection of the best speed camera warnings. If you’re on the road a lot, you’ve probably tried several, so come and give us your opinion. Which of these applications do you use?
