Comprehensive Comparison of the Top 8 MapQuest Alternatives for 2024

MapQuest has long been a go-to software for route planning and mapping services. It empowers individuals and small business owners with basic routing, turn-by-turn navigation, traffic updates, and mobile app services.

However, as business needs evolve, especially in logistics and delivery operations, more advanced tools are often required. 

Whether you’re looking for better route optimization, real-time tracking, or automated delivery processes, there are plenty of alternatives that can provide the enhanced features you need.

Forget Spaghetti Routes, Optimize Routes for Your Entire Team with Upper

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Why Explore Alternatives to MapQuest?

Despite these conveniences, MapQuest lacks the comprehensive routing solutions for more complex operations. Its limitations become evident when users require advanced planning, smart route optimization, quick dispatching, automated delivery notifications, and real-time tracking capabilities.

However, to meet these requirements, you need to explore MapQuest alternatives that offer enhanced features tailored to your specific needs. Follow this guide to help yourself find an ideal mapping service that better meets your business’s routing and logistics demands.

Evaluation Criteria for Choosing the Best MapQuest Alternative

Our team thoroughly evaluated the top MapQuest alternatives to provide you with the most accurate and helpful recommendations. We carefully considered key factors like pricing transparency, the value of features compared to cost, customer support, and standout functionalities. We identified the best options that fit your needs and budget by analyzing each software’s pricing plans and the value they provide, along with their customer service and unique features.

Top Rated MapQuest Alternatives

1. Upper

Best for individual drivers

Aspects Details
Best For Logistics and Delivery Businesses of All-Sizes
Ease of Use No training is required. Simple and easy to navigate
Key Features Route planning, AI-based route optimization, Quick dispatching, Re-routing, Automated customer alerts, Live tracking, In-app navigation
User Ratings 4.6/5 (44 reviews)
Pricing Starts at $40/month/user
Free Trial 7-day free trial
Discount Flat 20% off on annual billing
Route Quality With Upper, enjoy optimized routes that offer outstanding operational excellence and significant savings on fuel costs (up to 38%)

If you’re in search of a MapQuest alternative that genuinely meets your needs, consider Upper Route Planner. 

Unlike MapQuest, which has limitations such as restrictions on the number of stops per route, no real-time tracking, and a lack of delivery notifications and route customization, Upper provides a comprehensive routing solution that addresses these issues.

Here’s how Upper outperforms MapQuest, offering you a superior routing experience:

1. 26-stop limit

MapQuest restricts you to only 26 stops, which can be a significant limitation for complex deliveries. Upper removes this constraint, allowing you to manage hundreds of stops effortlessly.

2. Limited features and delayed updates

MapQuest is often slow to adopt new features. Upper provides real-time tracking, advanced customization, dynamic route optimization, automated customer alerts, and much more, enabling you to plan routes in just 5 minutes and stay ahead with up-to-date features.

3. Ad overload and poor user experience

The free version of MapQuest is cluttered with ads, which can be frustrating. Thanks to our intuitive design, Upper offers an ad-free experience, allowing you to focus on your routes without distractions.

Consider Upper’s FREE route planner for a seamless and ad-free routing experience, unlike MapQuest.

4. Limited navigation options

MapQuest confines users to its navigation app, which can be frustrating. Upper allows you to choose from multiple navigation apps (Google Maps, Apple Maps, Waze, Maps. me, Yandex, and Sygic) and integrate them with your preferred options. You can also export routes to GPS devices like Garmin. Plus, Upper has in-app navigation that provides delivery drivers with turn-by-turn directions.

Why should you prefer in-app navigation?

  • Enjoy a unified platform where routing and navigation are integrated, eliminating the need to switch between multiple apps.
  • Receive instant traffic alerts and route adjustments, ensuring your delivery drivers are always on the best path.
  • Turn-by-turn directions are provided directly within the app, helping drivers optimize their routes and reduce travel time.
  • The intuitive design allows for easy navigation, minimizing the learning curve for drivers.

5. Privacy concerns

With growing concerns over data privacy, MapQuest’s policies may not meet everyone’s standards. Upper prioritizes your privacy, ensuring better control over your data and keeping your personal information secure.

Upper Route Planner’s web and mobile apps are designed to simplify your delivery process while addressing MapQuest’s weaknesses. With Upper, you can import hundreds of stops, optimize your routes in just five minutes, adapt to real-time changes, and manage proof of delivery effortlessly.

Go Beyond MapQuest’s Basic Mapping Services

Switch to Upper for advanced routing solutions, unlimited routes, smart optimization, dynamic adjustments, real-time tracking, and a distraction-free interface.

Pros

  • Gain insights to make smarter routing decisions.
  • Easily capture and store delivery confirmations.
  • Seamlessly integrates with various navigation apps and GPS devices.
  • Streamline your delivery process with bulk address import and unlimited routes.
  • Tailor route planning to meet specific needs and priorities.

Cons

  • Relies on a stable internet connection 
  • Subscription-based pricing may not be ideal for all users.

Upper Route Planner vs MapQuest: Head to Head Comparision

Feature MapQuest Upper
Route Optimization Wrong Right
Time Windows Wrong Right
Number of Stops 26 500
Curbside Delivery Wrong Right
Driver's App Wrong Right
Driver Preference Right Right
One-click Dispatch Wrong Right
Detailed Reports Wrong Right
Choose Vehicle Type Wrong Right
Reassign Routes Wrong Right
Swap Routes Wrong Right
Print Routes Right Right
  • Feature upper logo Upper
  • Route Optimization

    Wrong

    Right

  • Time Windows

    Wrong

    Right

  • Number of Stops

    26

    500

  • Curbside Delivery

    Wrong

    Right

  • Driver's App

    Wrong

    Right

  • Driver Preference

    Right

    Right

  • One-click Dispatch

    Wrong

    Right

  • Detailed Reports

    Wrong

    Right

  • Choose Vehicle Type

    Wrong

    Right

  • Reassign Routes

    Wrong

    Right

  • Swap Routes

    Wrong

    Right

  • Print Routes

    Right

    Right

  • No credit card required

2. Google Maps

google-maps-mobile-app
Aspects Details
Best For Day-to-day basic navigation for individuals
Ease of Use User-friendly interface, no training needed
User Ratings 4.7/5 (1654)
Pricing Free to use
Key features Route planning, Street view, Offline maps, Location sharing, Explore nearby places
Discount N/A
Free Trial No
Route Quality Offers reliable routes with traffic-aware adjustments

Google Maps is a popular navigation app for planning routes from point A to point B. You can simply open the app and search for your favorite destination. You can also explore the details of the location and see nearby rest stops. The web mapping app also provides Google Street View to check the surroundings in case you are visiting your preferred location for the first time. 

Whether you’re navigating a busy city road or exploring your favorite countryside, this comprehensive mapping app will help you get the routes along with turn-by-turn directions. Plus, if you want to add stops between your routes, this mapping functionality will allow you a maximum of 9 stops. Hence, this app has covered your worldwide journeys.

Want to master Google Maps route planning? 

Check out our guide on using Google Maps’ route planner for tips and tricks on optimizing your travel routes.

Key features

  • Real-time traffic updates: Gives real-time traffic data to help delivery drivers avoid congestion and plan optimal routes.
  • Voice-enabled navigation: Allows hands-free audio instructions for safe, distraction-free navigation while driving.
  • Alternative route options: It suggests multiple route choices based on preferences like shorter distances or less traffic.
  • Street view exploration: Enables virtual exploration of locations with realistic street maps for better recognition.

Pros

  • Comprehensive global mapping data
  • Frequent updates with the latest information  
  • Integrates multiple travel modes seamlessly

Cons

  • Requires active internet connection  
  • Privacy concerns over data collection
  • Inconsistent mapping in remote areas

Concerned About Privacy?

Upper prioritizes your data security with enhanced privacy controls, ensuring your personal and operational information remains protected.

Google Maps compared to MapQuest

  • Google Street Maps provides offline functionality, allowing users to travel hassle-free in low-network areas, a feature lacking in MapQuest.
  • Unlike MapQuest, it offers real-time traffic updates, displays congestion, and suggests alternate routes to avoid queues.
  • In comparison, Google Maps emerges as the clear winner due to its offline functionality and real-time traffic updates.
  • Google Maps satisfies all navigation needs, establishing itself as one of the top Mapquest alternatives.

PRO TIP: Upgrade your mapping game with the top-notch Google Maps alternatives featured in our blog; click here to read more.

3. Apple Maps

apple-maps-multi-stop-route-planning
Aspects Details
Best For Providing turn-by-turn directions to iOS users
Ease of Use Clean interface, seamless integration with iOS devices
User Ratings N/A on Capterra
Key features Siri integration, Flyover and 3D maps, Nearby places, Public transit schedules, Real-time traffic, Lane guidance, Tourist guides
Pricing Free to use for Apple device users
Free Trial N/A
Route Quality Improved significantly over the years with updates to its operating system, but may not be as detailed as Google Maps

If you’re a iOS and MapQuest user willing to try a similar app for better route navigation, your search ends on Apple Maps. Being one of the best navigation apps, it can find the fastest routes at your fingertips. Once you start the route, you get turn-by-turn directions and lane guidance to avoid last-minute confusion. It also has a voice-enabled guidance feature, which you can turn on while heading towards your destination.

Apple Maps offers a 3D picture of your location to get a clear view of your newly added location. This will ensure you find the right place before kicking off the journey and require no last-minute changes. Notably, you can also report hazardous accidents to fellow drivers while en route.

Need help with planning routes on Apple Maps? 

We’ve got a handy guide on how to use the Apple Maps route planner that walks you through everything you need to know to make the most of Apple Maps for your travels.

Key features

  • Standard navigation: The default mapping and navigation solution for iPhone, iPad, and other Apple devices.
  • Lane assistance: Visual guidance to help users position themselves in the correct lane for upcoming turns or exits.
  • 3D mode exploration: Enables users to explore specific locations in a detailed 3D view with realistic renderings.
  • Hazardous zone reporting: Users can report hazardous zones or incidents on the road to alert other users.

Pros

  • Seamless integration with the Apple ecosystem
  • 3D detailed maps and flyover views  
  • Frequent updates with the latest data

Cons

  • Limited offline maps and navigation
  • Lacks advanced route optimization tools
  • Inaccuracies in mapping data reported

AppleMaps compared to MapQuest

  • It excels with a visually appealing interface, unlike MapQuest.
  • It seamlessly integrates with iOS devices, enhancing the user experience.
  • MapQuest lacks essential features like 3D-street level view, lane guidance, and hazardous report sending.
  • Unlike MapQuest, it is free, allowing unlimited and automated route planning without any charges.
  • It outperforms MapQuest in terms of user-friendliness and performance.

4. HERE WeGo

herewego
Aspects Details
Best For Local and global travelers seeking offline navigation
Ease of Use Seamless navigation, easy offline map downloads
User Ratings 0/5 (0)
Key features Offline mapping service, Speed limit updates, Turn-by-turn guidance, Lane guidance assistance, Multi-modal support
Pricing $50/per month
Free Trial Yes
Route Quality Good quality and reliable routing with offline capabilities

In recent years, HERE WeGo has raised its standard by competing with many popular apps like Google Maps, Apple Maps, and MapQuest. With its feature-rich web mapping services, HERE WeGo has turned the heads of many business owners running logistics and transportation services. It is not only for businesses; it also has unique navigation tools to guide solo travelers. 

Going head to head with route mapping giants, HERE WeGo has rolled out offline maps to access routes in areas with no internet. Therefore, you can continue to explore your location without any hassle. This web mapping service app offers speed assistance to send alerts in specific city areas. If you’re planning a multi-stop trip, then it will allow you to add waypoints in between.

Key features

  • Speed assistance: Provides real-time alerts and guidance to help you adhere to legal speed limits while driving safely.
  • Multi-modal integration: Seamlessly integrates various transportation modes for efficient and convenient travel transitions.
  • Bookmarking favorites: Conveniently save and access frequently visited locations within the app for quick navigation and planning.

Pros

  • Excellent offline navigation capabilities
  • Can download map data for offline use
  • Ideal for public transportation users

Cons

  • The comparison focuses on advantages over MapQuest

HERE WeGo compared to MapQuest

  • HERE WeGo features excellent offline functionality, a feature notably absent in MapQuest.
  • Unlike MapQuest, HERE WeGo doesn’t offer offline route access or the option to download routes beforehand.
  • Offline mode proves invaluable when navigating unfamiliar areas with limited internet connectivity.
  • For offline capabilities, HERE WeGo emerges as the superior choice over MapQuest.
  • HERE WeGo stands out as the preferred option for users reliant on public transportation.

5. Roadtrippers

roadtrippers
Aspects Details
Best For Adventure seekers and explorers planning long road trips
Ease of Use May be complex for daily navigation
User Ratings 3.0 (8.27K reviews)
Pricing Starts at $4.99/month
Free Trial 7-day free trial
Route Quality Optimized for scenic routes and stops, not necessarily the fastest

Roadtrippers is an adventure-driven alternative to MapQuest that focuses on route navigation for frequent travelers who want to go on adventure trips. So, if you are up for an unplanned trip, worry-free rely on Roadtrippers. This route-mapping app will ensure you don’t miss out on the best experience at your favorite destination. 

Since manual route planning is a tedious task that may affect your trip itinerary, integrating Roadtrippers for effortless planning can give you a breather. Also, it can help you uncover new locations with point-to-point directions and lesser-known attractions that otherwise you would miss. That’s why choosing Roadtrippers means having a personal assistant when you go for a trip.

Looking for more options? 

Explore top alternatives to Roadtrippers that offer unique features and enhanced functionality to elevate your adventure planning.

Key features

  • Multi-stop routes: Plan efficient routes with multiple stops for a smooth journey, catering to various destinations and activities.
  • Turn-by-turn navigation: Receive clear, voice-guided directions at each turn, ensuring you stay on track and reach your destination hassle-free.
  • Gas cost calculator: Estimate fuel expenses using the integrated gas cost calculator based on your vehicle type and planned route.
  • Driving statistics: Track essential driving metrics such as distance covered, travel time, and fuel consumption to optimize future trips and budgeting.

Pros

  • Collaborative trip planning with friends made easy
  • Tailored itineraries for adventure seekers provided

Cons

  • Limited navigation capabilities for urban areas observed
  • Real-time traffic updates are absent

Break Free from Limited Navigation Capabilities

With Upper, you can choose from various navigation apps and integrate with GPS devices like Garmin.

Roadtrippers compared to MapQuest

  • Roadtrippers help with custom itineraries and covering famous attractions along the route, which is missing in MapQuest.
  • It suggests scenic routes, major landmarks, and points of interest between start and endpoints, a functionality not available in MapQuest.
  • Roadtrippers facilitates collaborative planning, a feature that sets it apart from MapQuest.
  • It ensures tailored experiences for cross-country trips or weekend getaways, catering to diverse preferences.

6. Maps.me

maps.me-apps
Aspects Details
Best For City travel and outdoor activities
Ease of Use Simple interface, easy offline map downloads
User Ratings 4.2 (1.27M reviews)
Pricing Free with in-app purchases
Free Trial N/A (basic version always free)
Route Quality Good for pedestrian and cycling routes, less focused on driving

Maps.me is an essential tool for anyone traveling out of the country or on any outdoor adventure trail. It is quite easy to use compared to complex navigation apps and has offline map functionality, which can be a boon in regions with less familiarity and weak internet connections. So, if you are a travel enthusiast who often goes off-trail, Maps.me is undoubtedly made for you. 

Additionally, Maps.me offers multiple transportation modes that are even accessible if you go offline. This means if you use public transportation, it will display several options available to reach your destination. This convenient and easy-to-use tool makes it an affordable and reliable alternative to carry with you wherever your adventures take you.

Key features

  • Save favorite routes: Easily store preferred routes as favorites within the app for quick and easy access.
  • Traffic density awareness: View real-time traffic conditions to gauge route congestion levels and plan accordingly.
  • Share points of interest: Effortlessly share interesting location data with friends or contacts directly from the app.

Pros

  • Offline map access without an Internet connection 
  • Completely free to download and use, no hidden fees 
  • Integrates user-generated travel content seamlessly

Cons

  • Limited route optimization capabilities  
  • Lacks voice-guided turn-by-turn navigation  
  • Map data may become outdated over time
  • No real-time traffic information or updates are provided

Maps.me compared to MapQuest

  • Navigating Maps.me is simpler than MapQuest, enhancing the user experience.
  • Outdoor enthusiasts like bikers and hikers benefit from Maps.me’s detailed trail maps, a feature absent in MapQuest.
  • Maps.me is free to use, unlike the paid versions of MapQuest, making it accessible to all users.
  • Maps.me allows offline usability, ensuring navigation without an internet connection, unlike MapQuest.

7. Waze

waze-mobile-app
Aspects Details
Best For Community-based GPS navigation avoiding traffic and road hazards
Ease of Use Simple interface, focused on driving
User Ratings 4.1 (8.74M reviews)
Pricing Free to use
Free Trial N/A
Route Quality Dynamic routing based on real-time conditions may prioritize speed over distance

If you are a daily commuter who desperately wants the mapping app to cater to your commuting needs, then Waze is all you need. You will love this app, as it can tackle traffic in city areas like a pro. It keeps sending accurate and real-time information so you can easily edge past the traffic hassles. Plus, it offers dynamic rerouting to avoid traffic congestion during peak hours. 

Notably, you can also contribute to the app by sending hazardous reports on the road to alert delivery drivers. This community engagement feature works well and updates others about police presence or incidents in real time. With Waze, you can save the most time spent on the road.

Learn how to use Waze route planner for effective navigation and real-time traffic updates.

Key features

  • Accurate navigation: This app provides precise and dependable directions for efficient travel planning and seamless driving experiences.
  • Live traffic updates: Provide delivery drivers with real-time information about current road conditions, accidents, and potential traffic congestion.
  • Multi-language support: It offers navigation options in various languages and dialects to cater to diverse user preferences and regional needs.
  • Drive-sharing option: This option allows users to share their current location or planned route with friends and family members for enhanced coordination and safety.

Pros

  • Provides real-time and accurate traffic updates
  • Street View is available for enhanced navigation
  • Waze has a user-friendly and intuitive  interface

Cons

  • Lacks voice guidance functionality
  • Relies on outdated mapping data
  • Poor route optimization and algorithmic efficiency
  • Limited customization options and flexibility

Unlock Limitless Customization Options

Upper offers extensive customization options, allowing you to set time windows, manage service times, prioritize stops, and adjust routes in real time to fit your needs.

Waze compared to MapQuest

  • Waze seamlessly integrates hazard reporting and gamification features for a more immersive experience, unlike MapQuest.
  • It relies on crowd-sourced updates for superior real-time navigation accuracy, while MapQuest lacks this feature.
  • Waze offers ride booking integration, providing a unified navigation and transportation solution, a feature absent in MapQuest.
  • This routing app incentivizes incident reporting with points, fostering community-driven navigation, a unique feature compared to MapQuest.

8. Zeo Route Planner

Aspects Details
Best For Small business owners requiring basic and affordable routing solution
Ease of Use Users have felt slow startup time (at the launch of application). It can disrupt workflow and reduce overall usability.
User Ratings 4.6/5 (29)
Pricing $44.99/month/seat
Key features Bulk stop addition, Route optimization, Live customer updates, Proof of delivery
Free version Yes
Free Trial N/A
Route Quality The route quality is somewhat limited by the restriction of only 15 jobs in the free version, which may hinder larger operations can be very detailed in some areas.

Key features 

  • Efficient route optimization: Streamlined route planning to reduce travel time and costs.
  • Real-time tracking and ETAs: Monitor your fleet’s movements and provide accurate delivery time estimates.
  • Effortless onboarding: Easily train drivers with a user-friendly mobile app.
  • Customizable communication: Personalize customer messages with your brand’s unique style.
  • Comprehensive reports: Access detailed analytics for data-driven fleet management decisions.
  • Auto assign: Efficiently assign deliveries with one-click automation.

Pros

  • Quickly optimizes routes, with real-time editing during deliveries
  • User-friendly interface that makes navigation easy
  • Positive user experience, helping to minimize downtime on the streets

Cons

  • Limited to 15 jobs in the free version before requiring payment 
  • The mapping app used is costly and prone to crashes  
  • Difficulty in rerouting; often requires adding a fake address
  • Slow startup time when launching the application

Zeo Route Planner compared to MapQuest

  • MapQuest offers basic route planning capabilities, primarily focused on static routes. In contrast, Zeo Route Planner excels in dynamic route planning, allowing users to schedule routes in advance and customize them on the go. 
  • Zeo significantly outperforms MapQuest in terms of reporting and analytics. While MapQuest may offer some basic insights, Zeo generates comprehensive daily reports in various formats, delivering an in-depth analysis of driver performance and operational efficiency. 
  • Zeo Route Planner provides flexible customization options tailored to specific business needs. Users can adjust unit measurements, stop durations, and detailed customer information, which enhances delivery precision. 
  • In contrast, MapQuest lacks the same level of customization, limiting businesses’ ability to tailor services to their unique needs.

FAQs and Common Questions

Upper Route Planner is the ideal alternative to MapQuest, as it has budget-friendly route planning and optimization plans. With Upper, you can streamline your business operations by planning, scheduling, and optimizing routes in a fraction of a second, reaching your destination three times faster.

No, Google’s mapping service is widely used for route planning but not route optimization. If you require route optimization, consider using Upper, an advanced route planning and optimization alternative to Google Maps. It helps you find efficient routes and reach your destination on time. So, whether you are a solo traveler or a business owner, Upper will get you optimal routes without wasting a minute.

Yes, Upper (a MapQuest alternative) offers API integration to connect your laptop or tablet and transfer the stop details. Transferring the data lets you plan and optimize routes easily with just a few taps. With such an integration feature, you don’t have to add stops manually in the software.

As an Apple Maps user, you can include up to 14 additional stops in your route plan. However, Apple Maps will not allow more than 14 stops on any route. If you have more stops, Using Upper will be the best bet.

Yes, some people still use MapQuest, but its popularity has declined due to outdated features and limited functionality compared to newer navigation web apps. Many users are now exploring alternative options for more advanced and efficient route planning.

Yes, route planning on Upper means your routes and multiple stops’ details will be saved automatically. So, next time you plan routes, you don’t need to add stop details repeatedly.

Refine Your Routing with Advanced Solutions

The world of mapping and interactive maps is evolving rapidly, with many web mapping services now competing to be the top choice. Unfortunately, once a popular option, MapQuest maps are losing ground due to their failure to keep up with user demands and lack of essential features.

If you currently use MapQuest and feel the limitations, it’s time to explore other options. Consider trying Upper, a comprehensive solution that meets all your routing needs. Take advantage of our 3-days free trial and experience the difference firsthand.

Author Bio
Jeel Patel
Jeel Patel

Jeel Patel is the Chief Executive Officer at Upper. With 5+ years of experience in dev, outbound, and inbound sales, He is committed to growing conversion through inbound and outbound activities. Outside the office, Jeel loves to spend time with his dog and take him on long walks. Read more.