Is the free Waze app a good replacement of GPS device? Any suggestions?

virhlpool on 24/07/2016 - 04:07
Last edited 24/07/2016 - 04:22

Hi all,

I am a relatively new driver and GPS devices seem to be quite expensive in Aus. I would like to know if Waze app (free) is a good replacement of a GPS device and any pros and cons associated with it. I can think of two cons but they are manageable for me: 1) It needs internet data ON (probably?) and, 2) You can't use the phone while driving if you are using it for GPS assistance with this or any other app for that matter. How accurate are Waze maps? Please share your overall experience of Waze vs any GPS device.

Also, is there any other free app for this which is worth trying?

Thanks!

Automotive

Comments

  • Big Trev on 24/07/2016 - 07:26
    +3

    I usually use Google Maps on my phone, but I do use Waze sometimes, mainly for the live travel updates. I've found Waze to be pretty good.

    As you've identified, the main downside for using mapping on your phone is you can't use your phone for anything else. I've also found mapping tends to be very battery intensive - usually even with the charger plugged in my battery tends to stay about the same or go down.

    You can get away without using data on google maps by pre-downloading the maps.

    • nayfon on 26/07/2016 - 14:33

      My only drawback with Waze is that on iOS you can only have the location services set to always or never. Majority of other apps that use location services (like Google Maps) have a "While Using the App" option.

      I manually change the setting every time I open and close Waze.

    • Parentheses on 26/07/2016 - 21:15
      +1

      If your phone battery is dropping while it's charging, you need a better charger. You probably have a 1 amp car charger, swap it for one 2a+

  • pao2x on 24/07/2016 - 07:35
    +3

    Waze is owned by Google now. It is very accurate and very up to date. Just get a proper mount and a proper charger. You cant go wrong with either mapping app. The only thing I want from google maps which they haven't implemented is speed cam alerts which is present in waze

    • virhlpool on 24/07/2016 - 10:53
      +1

      Surprisingly, I have faced Google maps losing the phone/data signal in some areas and keeping you totally confused on the middle of the road as to where to turn next (if you are absolutely unfamiliar with the map and relying completely on maps) but never faced such situation with Waze though both must be using phone/data signal. Not sure why.

  • Name on 24/07/2016 - 07:47
    +3

    I solely use google maps. Haven't had any issues with it. I used to have a dedicated gps, but it takes up too much space for the amount of times you use it (barely ever, although I'm boring and don't normally go anywhere new).

    • virhlpool on 24/07/2016 - 10:49

      Too much space as in physically? I thought their screens are quite small as compared to the space available on car's dashboard. They are quite expensive here though and I don't see any deals on them on Ozbargain often.

      • Name on 24/07/2016 - 15:19

        More when storing it in the glovebox with all the cables. Every time I open the glovebox it's a struggle to get it shut again.

    • cameldownunder on 25/07/2016 - 11:32

      I have a TomTom with LifeTime Maps. Advantage of TomTom: does not need data connection. Does not discharge as quick as Phone. Separate unit. Giving directions is better.

      I also use Google Map. Advantage of Google Map: It knows where the congestions are and can provide instant better alternatives.

      Unless I expect heavy traffic ( Easter, Long Weekends … ) I use TomTom.

  • netbies on 24/07/2016 - 08:17

    What you mean by you cant use anything else on the phone while Waze is running? I can switch to other apps if needed. It will present in the notice bar, and you can switch back to Waze if needed.

    I am using an older version, not the current one as one update keeps FC and I have to return to an older version.

    • virhlpool on 24/07/2016 - 10:47

      What you mean by you cant use anything else on the phone while Waze is running?

      I mean that since phone screen is already occupied with the GPS app (say Waze) and since you aren't familiar with the maps of the area, you would rather want GPS app on the screen all the time and you won't switch between apps or do other tasks on phone much while driving (though practically you can as you mentioned) else you might lose the direction. This isn't a problem when you have a dedicated GPS device since your phone screen is free then. Also, switching between the apps while driving isn't easy anyway though one can.

      I am using an older version, not the current one as one update keeps FC and I have to return to an older version.

      What do you mean by FC?

      • netbies on 24/07/2016 - 12:36

        FC = Force close. Basically the app wont start at all. Have to try many times before it will come up once.

        • virhlpool on 24/07/2016 - 13:07
          +1

          Ok. I downloaded Waze last week and it's working fine so far.

      • onetwothreefour on 25/07/2016 - 07:35
        +11

        What other tasks would you be doing while driving? Surely concentrating on the road is the most important task to do?!

        • ronnknee on 25/07/2016 - 14:01
          +4

          Probably playing Pokemon Go.

      • ronnknee on 25/07/2016 - 09:41
        +3

        you won't switch between apps or do other tasks on phone much while driving

        You shouldn't really be fiddling with your phone while driving anyway.

  • Stewardo on 24/07/2016 - 08:42
    -1

    Google maps is great however it can use a lot of data and battery if used regularly. They work fine if there is phone signal but if you go into the country they will lose signal and stop working. I drive for work and have a $150 Navman, I use google maps to find Addresses then type them into the gps. If your only using it occasionally the apps would be fine and I wouldn't bother with dedicated gps

    • virhlpool on 24/07/2016 - 10:37

      Is phone loses the signal, then even Waze won't work at those places.. right? Does GPS device work at such places though?

      • KaTst3R on 25/07/2016 - 13:14
        +1

        Google map uses a combination of data and GPS. If data is unavailable temporarily, it solely relies on GPS for navigation. This will still work because the map has already been downloaded on the go. But of course, you will need data eventually because it downloads the map section by section but you should have enough coverage to last you a while.

    • matt_will_fix_it on 25/07/2016 - 07:21
      +1

      On android you can download maps for offline navigation

  • lnq on 24/07/2016 - 09:05

    Waze is social network for driver. In there you can talk, notify direct to other driver on the road. Use it to beat traffic and sometime see police ahead of time.

  • shapers on 24/07/2016 - 09:19
    +4

    I havnt used waze before but I use Here maps offline and it works great

    • virhlpool on 24/07/2016 - 10:35

      Ok. Where do you download Here maps for Android? From Google app store?

    • conan2000 on 25/07/2016 - 22:52
      +2

      I hated Waze, I found it quite distracting, with strange things popping up on the road etc, assuming some kind of prize/reward/achievement things.

      Use Google maps 95% of the time and Here Maps as a back-up with the offline maps downloaded for when I go to areas with poor mobile signal. Although the speed warnings on Here are handy.

  • [Deactivated] on 24/07/2016 - 09:30
    +1

    I use Google maps with sygic cameras overlayed.

    • virhlpool on 24/07/2016 - 10:34

      That's essentially exactly like Waze. Waze is Google maps + speed cameras notifications.

      • [Deactivated] on 24/07/2016 - 10:36
        +1

        Yes but sygic isn't interactive. Also really like the speed limit advisory and warning feature. From memory it has free trial for a week to give it a try.

        • virhlpool on 24/07/2016 - 10:55

          True.. I don't use any interactive feature of Waze though. I just use it as a plain and simple GPS. But I guess it doesn't have speed limit advisory and warning feature. You are right. It's an important feature that Waze should have to be a complete GPS pack, and even the feature of finding the nearest food joints, hospitals, rest areas on highways, public toilets, etc.

  • fruit on 24/07/2016 - 10:54

    Metroview is my chioce.

    Google maps misses out on speed cameras and telling me what the speed limit is.
    It's maps are getting worse imo, incorrectly named parks and streets that don't exist, oh and it always wants me to turn over 5+ lanes of traffic during peak hour to avoid the traffic lights. There is also a no right turn sign :(

    • virhlpool on 24/07/2016 - 11:03

      I agree with your comment about wrong steet/park names and non-existent streets.

      oh and it always wants me to turn over 5+ lanes of traffic during peak hour to avoid the traffic lights. There is also a no right turn sign :(

      I didn't get you. Do you mean that Google Maps show you an alternative route (to avoid traffic lights) which has even more traffic? What do you mean by "turn over 5+ lanes of traffic"?

      And that it suggests you to take a right turn where there's a 'no right turn' sign? Weird if true.

      Is Metroview a free app?

    • dazweeja on 25/07/2016 - 18:59
      +2

      You can get errors corrected. It will help the next guy too.

      https://support.google.com/maps/answer/3094088?co=GENIE.Plat…

      • fruit on 25/07/2016 - 19:18

        I've tried they don't bother correcting things.

        • dazweeja on 25/07/2016 - 20:59

          Fair enough. Good on you for trying. I've actually only come across one error and that was a few years ago. Maybe I should get out of Melbourne more.

        • surethang on 26/07/2016 - 01:54
          +1

          I've provided two corrections. Both got fixed. Received personalised emails from Google regarding progress.

          Turnaround time was slow, however, with it taking weeks not days before maps were updated.

  • virhlpool on 24/07/2016 - 10:58

    I just realised after reading Gofast's comment above that Waze doesn't have a couple of important GPS device features.

    1) Speed limit advisory and warning feature.
    2) Feature to find the nearest food joints, hospitals, rest areas on highways, public toilets, etc.

    • fruit on 25/07/2016 - 19:19

      Which app do you use?

  • na8an on 24/07/2016 - 11:46
    +6

    I'm surprised no one mention HERE maps by Nokia yet, this has speed indication and offline maps download option too.

    • virhlpool on 24/07/2016 - 13:08

      Does it work on Android too or just for Nokia phones (Windows)? I would like to check if their interface is as good as Waze.

      • na8an on 24/07/2016 - 18:42

        I use it on iphone6, Andriod version is also available.

      • vr4indian on 25/07/2016 - 22:20

        They have stopped support on Windows device and asking users to rely on Bing maps. What an irony..

    • Ranagade on 25/07/2016 - 13:02

      Can you store maps on external SD card for HERE Maps?

      • na8an on 25/07/2016 - 14:25

        If ur referring to SD card on android mobile, I'm not sure. I think you can sort that out from ur app internal memory by choosing SD card

      • conan2000 on 25/07/2016 - 22:54
        +1

        Yes you can.

        • Ranagade on 26/07/2016 - 12:17

          Awesome! Thanks!

  • Findo on 24/07/2016 - 22:18

    Isn't waze only useful for seeing where speed traps and HWP are hiding?

    • Big Trev on 25/07/2016 - 09:27
      +2

      Users can report congestion, accidents etc as well.

      • Findo on 25/07/2016 - 11:28

        I only used waze when I was on my p plates for HWP alerts…

    • RocketSwitch on 25/07/2016 - 10:57

      That's what I thought.

    • virhlpool on 25/07/2016 - 16:34

      You can use Waze as a normal GPS or maps as well, just like Google Maps.

  • OzzyOzbourne on 25/07/2016 - 11:55

    Google maps can be downloaded for offline use and there are several free navi apps.

    Of more concern though is a new driver wanting to do more stuff (beyond navi) on their phone whilst driving!

    Whilst I'm sure you're the best p plate driver in Australia, just make sure you don't ruin your life and someone elses by crashing because you were using your phone.

  • -.- on 25/07/2016 - 12:15
    +2

    For those in NSW, bear in mind that if you or anyone else is a P plater (or L) you can't use a mobile phone at all, even in a cradle for its GPS function (from December). Previously it was only for L and Red Ps. New changes announced yesterday.

    • virhlpool on 25/07/2016 - 16:31

      Not even those on Green P or Full License?

    • Findo on 25/07/2016 - 18:04

      I think it's for those licenced after 01 Dec, much like the power to weight ratio laws were introduced for those after a certain date

    • fruit on 25/07/2016 - 18:09

      That's so lame for them. Can they use a dedicated GPS?

      • virhlpool on 28/07/2016 - 22:15

        They should be allowed to use deidcated GPS device though, else how can they navigate directions in new places? Old style map printouts? lol..

  • captobvious on 25/07/2016 - 15:52

    I actually save money using Waze because of the speed camera updates, but I find its not as good as the inbuilt GPS in the vehicle.

  • Austaurean on 25/07/2016 - 22:00

    'Here maps' is a full on or off line voice guided turn by turn app. Its good, free and no adverts

    • virhlpool on 28/07/2016 - 22:16

      Runs on what? If it runs on phone, then now allowed. Runs on laptop, then may be allowed. We need to check.

      • Austaurean on 04/08/2016 - 08:20
        +1

        runs on Android Phones, also my old Nokia running Symbian, you can use it either on or off line as maps can be stored on the phone.
        https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.here.app.m…

        Its now called HERE WeGo, it has a 4.4 out of 5 satisfaction rating

        Whereis - another phone app is also good, but needs internet, although if you are with Telstra the data is not counted

  • CVonC on 26/07/2016 - 04:13

    If you use offline Google maps without data, you can't pick a different route like avoid tolls or avoid motorways. But you can get around that by selecting the option you want before leaving. I like how Google maps changes the colour of the road according to traffic. But yeah no speed camera or speed indicator. It's also not really reliable when you're in tunnels, specially underground. Although I suppose that also happens with most GPS's?

    Also another pro for Waze is Morgan Freeman! Have any of you guys got that to work though?

  • Princesswildcat on 26/07/2016 - 11:36

    Waze is great app. Reason I stopped using it is that I like to easily disable use of toll roads but when I last used waze in order to do so you have go through the list of described routes (with and without tolls) instead of the app just telling you which best way to go avoiding tolls. Happy to stand corrected if things have changed!

  • Caped Baldy on 26/07/2016 - 13:06

    Just adding my 2c here. Here maps and google maps allow you to save map data to your phone, so less mobile data is used. If you want to avoid tolls you have to change every time in gmaps. I'm fairly sure waze can avoid as a setting, not sure about Here.

    Also Tom Tom speed cameras adds a widget on top of the screen so can be added to gmaps which doesn't have camera warnings.

  • Tech45 on 26/07/2016 - 13:15
    -1

    There's also Here maps by Nokia, which is reliable too.

  • ChrisLevo on 26/07/2016 - 15:06

    I wouldn't say that GPS devices are expensive in Oz.

    I just bought a new car, and wanted to cut down on things attached to the windscreen, so bought a combined GPS/dash cam from a post here.

    $200 got me a Navman MIVUEDRIVELM with free monthly map updates.
    5" screen, and attaches speed and location data to the video, plus turns itself on and off when I start the car.

    I don't consider that expensive for what it is.

    I use HERE maps on my mobile when in the other car, but the dedicated unit is so much easier to use.

  • [Deactivated] on 26/07/2016 - 15:57
    +1

    I tried Waze a year or two ago but there wasn't critical mass to make it "work". Worth trying again I guess.
    I use apple maps 99% of the time and google maps 1%

    • virhlpool on 26/07/2016 - 21:59

      What was lacking in making it 'work' as far as plain navigation goes?

  • Amour on 26/07/2016 - 17:59

    I have been really unimpressed with Waze. It almost always underestimates my drive to work (sometimes by 100%+), and it often suggests really stupid routes. I suspect it will get better as more people use it - although that could take a while if people stop using it (like me), because it is unreliable. I use Google maps if I need directions.

    • virhlpool on 26/07/2016 - 21:58

      I thought both use the same maps (and therefore same directions/ navigation) as Google owns Waze.

  • Herbse on 26/07/2016 - 18:19

    Doesn't Google maps use the waze data in their "traffic" layer? And to estimate delays in the travel time

    • Caped Baldy on 26/07/2016 - 23:00

      Fairly sure they use every users data. Waze comes into play when users report accidents

  • Move-D on 26/07/2016 - 18:50

    I've used both extensively. I love the incident reporting, speed cameras and speedo display on Waze. But ultimately the overly complicated routes to save a minute, severe underestimation of time prediction, and slow to re-route if building traffic ahead means Googlemaps the better option for navigating traffic.

    • virhlpool on 26/07/2016 - 21:57

      What do you mean by speedo display?

  • Colombian on 26/07/2016 - 19:52

    One of the things I don't like about Waze is that it does not have lane guidance. I went to Toronto last December and using Waze was a pain in the ass for those wide highways over there. That experience was using my sister in law's iphone. It is the same with Android?

    • virhlpool on 26/07/2016 - 21:55

      Does Google Maps have lane guidance though? On the separate note, why are Canadian highways wider than ours here?

      • CVonC on 26/07/2016 - 22:21

        Does Google Maps have lane guidance though?

        no it doesn't.

        • Colombian on 27/07/2016 - 03:21

          I'm sorry it's not line guidance. But you can clearly see which line you have to pick when you are on highways. It doesn't happen with Waze.

          Canadian highways are not only wide, they are huge and much better than ours.

        • virhlpool on 31/07/2016 - 00:18

          @Colombian:

          Canadian highways are not only wide, they are huge and much better than ours.

          Any reasons why if we both countries have a similar history/ heritage?

  • virhlpool on 04/08/2016 - 09:45

    How are those cheaper GPS devices available on eBay? Has anyone tried them? Some examples here:

    http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/7-16GB-Car-GPS-Navigation-SAT-NAV…

    http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/7-inch-GPS-SAT-NAV-Car-Navigation…

    Any feedback will be highly appreciated

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