Google Earth vs. Google Earth Pro: Key Differences Explained

Google Earth and Google Earth Pro are powerful tools for exploring the globe virtually. But what’s the difference between the two, and which one is right for you? This article breaks it down in simple terms, highlights the key differences, and introduces an alternative: Atlas, a browser-based GIS platform that offers many of the same capabilities—and more.

Let’s start with a quick overview in the table below.

What is Google Earth?

Google Earth is a free, web-based tool that lets users explore satellite imagery, 3D cities, and terrain from their browser or mobile device. It’s perfect for casual users who want to:

• Fly over landmarks in 3D.
• Measure distances with basic tools.
• View historical imagery and changes over time.

It’s user-friendly, intuitive, and fun. However, it’s not designed for advanced tasks or detailed map outputs. If you’re looking for professional-grade tools, you might find it limiting.

What is Google Earth Pro?

Google Earth Pro, originally priced at $399 per year but now free, is a desktop application designed for more advanced and professional uses. It offers features that go beyond simple exploration, such as:

• Importing GIS data like shapefiles or CSVs.
• High-resolution imagery export for presentations or reports.
• Advanced measurement tools for area, radius, and more.
• Creating and exporting videos of virtual tours.

These features make Google Earth Pro a go-to for professionals working in fields like urban planning, environmental analysis, and real estate.

Key Differences Between Google Earth and Google Earth Pro

1. Price

Both versions are now free, but Google Earth Pro offers significantly more features at no additional cost, making it a better choice for professionals.

2. Platform

• Google Earth: Accessible on the web and mobile, ideal for quick exploration and casual use.
• Google Earth Pro: Desktop-based, offering robust tools for advanced projects.

3. GIS Integration

• Google Earth: Does not support GIS data like shapefiles or detailed overlays.
• Google Earth Pro: Allows importing GIS data, making it suitable for industry professionals.

4. Exporting Capabilities

• Google Earth: Limited exporting capabilities; users can’t create high-resolution images or videos.
• Google Earth Pro: Supports high-resolution printing and video export, essential for presentations and reports.

5. Measurement Tools

• Google Earth: Basic distance and area measurement tools.
• Google Earth Pro: Advanced tools for calculating area, radius, and even complex measurements like 3D paths.

6. Business Applications

Google Earth caters to casual users, while Google Earth Pro provides professional-grade tools for site analysis, land planning, and advanced mapping tasks.

Which One Should You Use?

Here’s a quick guide to help you decide:

• Use Google Earth if:

  • You want a simple, web-based tool for casual exploration.
  • You’re looking to fly around the globe, explore landmarks, or view historical imagery.
  • You don’t need advanced tools or high-resolution exports.

• Use Google Earth Pro if:

  • You need advanced features for professional projects.
  • You work with GIS data or want to create polished, high-quality outputs.
  • You need tools like video creation or area and radius measurements.

Why Consider Atlas Instead?

While Google Earth and Google Earth Pro are fantastic tools, they’re not the best fit for everyone—especially when collaboration and real-time editing are needed. Atlas is a browser-based GIS platform that combines the simplicity of Google Earth with the advanced features of Google Earth Pro—and adds a collaborative edge.

1. Browser-Based and Simple

Like Google Earth, Atlas is entirely browser-based, so there’s no need to install software. It works seamlessly on any device, making it just as accessible as Google Earth.

2. Collaboration First

Unlike Google Earth Pro, Atlas allows real-time collaboration. Multiple users can work on the same map simultaneously, making it ideal for team projects. Whether you’re an urban planner, a researcher, or a marketer, collaboration is seamless.

3. Advanced GIS Tools

Atlas supports GIS data imports, like shapefiles and GeoJSON, making it comparable to Google Earth Pro. But Atlas also offers powerful analytical tools and customization options that simplify working with geospatial data.

4. Custom and Interactive Maps

One standout feature of Atlas is its ability to create custom, interactive maps. You can build maps with layers, filters, and pop-ups that provide users with detailed insights—features not available in either version of Google Earth.

5. Fast and Scalable

Atlas is designed to handle everything from simple maps to large-scale geospatial projects without sacrificing speed. Unlike Google Earth Pro, you’re not tied to desktop software and can easily scale up as your project grows.

How Atlas Stands Out

Here’s a side-by-side look at how Atlas compares to Google Earth and Google Earth Pro:

Atlas bridges the gap between simplicity and power, making it a strong alternative for both casual users and professionals.

The Bottom Line

Google Earth and Google Earth Pro are excellent tools, each catering to different needs. For casual exploration, Google Earth is ideal. For professionals needing advanced features, Google Earth Pro is a solid choice.

But for teams, organizations, or anyone seeking modern, collaborative, and interactive map-making capabilities, Atlas might be a better choice. It combines ease of use with professional-grade tools to help you create and analyze geospatial data effortlessly.

Ready to give Atlas a try? Start for free today.