OSM Fails to Match Google Maps Street Numbers, Leaving Users Stuck Between Power-User Headaches and Basic Functionality
The consensus points to OpenStreetMap (OSM) being the superior open, non-profit data standard, with CoMaps and OsmAnd+ named as the recommended application front ends. Despite this, the community repeatedly hits a brick wall: neither alternative matches Google Maps’ reliable, real-time traffic data or accurate residential street numbering.
The core conflict splits over the best application experience. Some users, like 'Sir_Kevin' and 'Trent', defend OsmAnd+ for its raw power and deep configurability, accepting its steep learning curve. Others, preferring simplicity, champion CoMaps for its 'simplistic and smooth UX/GUI,' making it easier for mass adoption. Furthermore, 'frondo' notes the entire system hinges on user action, suggesting community contribution ('StreetComplete') is the only path to filling in granular data gaps.
The community conclusion is mixed: OSM is the accepted destination for data integrity, but practical roadblocks—lack of real-time traffic and poor address detail—force users to acknowledge the current gap against proprietary services. Choosing an app means trading off deep feature sets (OsmAnd+) against seamless usability (CoMaps).
Key Points
OpenStreetMap is the definitive open, non-profit data alternative.
There is widespread agreement on OSM's overall superiority as a data foundation.
The lack of reliable, real-time traffic data is a major failure across all FOSS options.
Users like 'iamthetot' point out this persistent deficit compared to Google Maps.
OsmAnd+ is powerful but suffers from a steep learning curve.
Some recommend it for deep functionality, while others note its complexity, though 'RodgeGrabTheCat' sticks with it despite flaws.
CoMaps is favored for its superior, user-friendly interface.
It is repeatedly cited as easier for general adoption, balancing features with a smooth GUI.
Address data accuracy, especially street numbering, is critically unreliable.
'mycatsays' states that missing precise address data forces reversion to Google Maps.
The system's utility depends entirely on volunteer data contribution.
'frondo' emphasizes that the goal must be user contribution to enrich the map quality.
Source Discussions (3)
This report was synthesized from the following Lemmy discussions, ranked by community score.