🗺️ Maps & navigation Privacy ★★★★
Magic Earth
Capable private OSM navigation
Overview
Magic Earth uses OSM and open traffic data—free, ad-free, with offline downloads, 3D buildings, and multi-mode routing.
Claims no sale of location data—more privacy-minded than Google while offering more features than minimal offline apps.
Sits between Organic Maps (minimal) and OsmAnd (power-user)—good offline/online balance.
Scores
Privacy 4/5
Ease of use 4/5
Features 4/5
Value 5/5
Google Maps — comparison
Near Google’s traffic and 3D experience on OSM with tighter data policy—but closed source.
Pros
- ✓ Free and ad-free
- ✓ Offline maps and 3D display
- ✓ Live traffic in some regions
- ✓ Relatively intuitive UI
Cons & caveats
- − Not open source
- − Traffic coverage varies (including Japan)
- − POI freshness depends on community maps
Best for
- OSM users who still want some traffic data
- Free multi-feature navigation seekers
- 3D map display needs
Not ideal for
- Open-source-only users
- Commutes requiring reliable Japan congestion data
Specs
- Pricing
- Free — Completely free.
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Data location
- Offline maps on device; traffic queries when online. No location data sales per vendor statement.
- Platforms
- Android · iOS
オフライン対応3D地図交通情報（地域限定）無広告
Migration from Google Maps
- 1 Install Magic Earth and download maps
- 2 Save home and work favorites
- 3 Test commute traffic accuracy
- 4 Disable Google location history
Setup steps
- 1 Install app and complete first-run tutorial
- 2 Download offline regions needed
- 3 Set navigation mode (car, foot, etc.)
- 4 Adjust voice guidance and display theme