Nobody wants to get lost! Being lost is exhausting and stressful. People travel a lot these days. Of course, we often get lost if we are in a place we are not familiar with. Thankfully, there are some great navigation apps for Android that can help us stay on track and reach our destinations on time. To be fair… A few years back, the navigation apps for Android were not as fleshed out as they are today. Most of it has to do with Google maps that upgraded over time and people actually relying on GPS navigation on their smartphones. Now: We’ve seen the interfaces of these app change dramatically over the past 2 years. And, it is for the better. The developers of these apps are constantly trying to make their app the best one around and it’s paying off. In all honesty, I only use Google navigation for my day-to-day tasks but some of my friends used other apps and loved them.
Best Android GPS Navigation Apps
1. Google Maps – Navigate and Explore – Free
If you’re new to the world of GPS navigation on Android, Google Maps is the best app you can get. Is one of the most used navigation apps on Android and there is a good reason behind that. First of all the maps are highly updated and a lot of people use it as a daily driver. This means that you’ll get up to date information about closed roads as well as a moment to moment info about traffic. The navigation app is capable of delivering accurate information to your device and can help you make intelligent decisions and reroutes. Features:
Recommended placesOffline MapsIndoor Maps
This app is great because it is really intuitive to use and it has almost everything you could want from a GPS navigator. It even shows what roads are busier and which path is shorter to take. Additionally, it adapts to your speed and can almost accurately predict when you’re going to arrive at your destination.
2. Waze – GPS, Maps, Traffic Alerts & Live Navigation – Free
Waze is an amazing alternative to Google Maps because it also uses a similar way to inform you about traffic and routes. Basically, Waze is a community-driven navigation app that uses information from other users to better guide you in your day-to-day travels. For example, if someone spots a traffic jam happening or an accident, they can easily update the app to inform others that are behind, so they can take a detour. The app offers live routing based and community driven, real-time traffic and road information. Features:
Alerts about the police, traffic and many moreCompatible with Android AutoETA based on traffic data
We also like that there is turn by turn voice guided navigation available so that you can easily use this app while riding bikes as well. The app is also capable of automatically rerouting your path according to the changing traffic conditions. Additionally, more for fun, you can record your own voice to guide you to your destination.
3. Sygic GPS Navigation & Maps – Free with In-app Purchases
Sygic GPS Navigation is quite popular in South Asian countries because it is a reliable app that allows you to navigate without using too much data. As most of the maps are stored on your phone storage, the app allows you to use off-line navigation as well. However, many features will be turned off while using the app exclusively off-line. That’s not all, apart from great voice-guided navigation features, you’ll be also getting free map updates periodically. Features:
Offline MapsFuel informationDynamic Lane Assistant
Real-time route sharing allows you to share your whole trip with friends or family so that you can know your arrival time easily. In some areas, the app is also capable of providing or suggestions along with the availability as well as price.
4. MapFactor GPS Navigation Maps – Free with In-app Purchases
We’re big fans of great interfaces and unfortunately, this app comes with a blocky one. However, this is the strongest thing about this app, if you have trouble simply glancing at your screen and knowing where you have to go on other apps, this one has extremely bright colors, so you know exactly where you’re going. Features:
Speed limit and camera warningsOffline mapsRoute types for different types of transportation
Even though the interface is a bit blocky, the design is very usable and can be helpful in your day-to-day usage. This navigation app comes with free offline GPS maps that allow you to navigate even without Internet connectivity. The intuitive voice navigation is available in different languages so you’re not bound to English in this app. Map Factor GPS Navigation features cross-border routing so that you can easily switch between countries without relying on a less detailed map.
5. MAPS.ME – Offline Map and Travel Navigation – Free with In-app Purchases
This is one of the fastest and detailed turn by turn navigation app for Android. The best thing, the app is available entirely off-line and you can use it without ever connecting to the Internet. Of course, you will have to download the maps prior to you setting off to our adventure, but at least it doesn’t rely on a constant connection for navigation. Features:
Offline navigationNearby PlacesBookmarks
However, first you need to download the maps on your device, so you won’t be stranded without Internet or navigation. Another good thing about this navigation app for Android is that all the maps are inside and every feature is free. Driving, walking and even cycling navigation is available anywhere in the world. From points of interest to hiking trails, this app covers it all across the globe.
Android GPS Navigation – Know Your Way!
These were some of the best navigation apps for Android that will surely work well on all of your devices. We personally tested these out over the years and wholeheartedly recommend the first 2 apps for daily usage. The best thing about these apps is that they are available globally and even if you use some of our best travel apps for Android, you will always know where to go next. However, make sure that your device’s GPS sensors are working their best. If you have problems with them, we recommend you read our troubleshooting guide: “How to Fix Android GPS Issues”. If you have any questions or suggestions about this list, feel free to direct them in the comments below. Featured Image