Plus Codes vs What3words

Developers should learn Plus Codes when building location-based applications, mapping tools, or services that require precise geocoding in regions with poor addressing systems, such as rural areas or developing countries meets developers should learn what3words when building location-based applications that require user-friendly address input or sharing, such as ride-hailing apps, delivery platforms, or emergency response tools, as it reduces errors compared to manual coordinate entry. Here's our take.

Plus Codes

Nice Pick

Developers should learn Plus Codes when building location-based applications, mapping tools, or services that require precise geocoding in regions with poor addressing systems, such as rural areas or developing countries

Pros

• They are particularly valuable for humanitarian aid, logistics, and mobile apps where users need to share locations quickly without relying on traditional street addresses, as they offer a free, global alternative to proprietary geocoding services
• Related to: geocoding, google-maps-api

Cons

• Specific tradeoffs depend on your use case

What3words

Developers should learn What3words when building location-based applications that require user-friendly address input or sharing, such as ride-hailing apps, delivery platforms, or emergency response tools, as it reduces errors compared to manual coordinate entry

Pros

• It's particularly useful in areas with poor addressing infrastructure or for outdoor activities like hiking, where traditional addresses are unavailable
• Related to: geocoding, gps-integration

Cons

• Specific tradeoffs depend on your use case

The Verdict

These tools serve different purposes. Plus Codes is a concept while What3words is a tool. We picked Plus Codes based on overall popularity, but your choice depends on what you're building.

The Bottom Line

Plus Codes wins

Based on overall popularity. Plus Codes is more widely used, but What3words excels in its own space.