Mapping software has become a crucial tool for people from various fields, be it planning outdoor adventures, researching geospatial information, or accessing area-specific data. Two popular and feature-packed mapping platforms are Basemap and onX. In this blog post, we will dive deep into the world of these two software solutions, comparing their features, applications, pricing, and more. By the end of this piece, you should be well-equipped with the knowledge to make an informed decision regarding which mapping tool best suits your needs.
Basemap and onX: A Brief Overview
Basemap
Basemap is a popular Python library utilized by data scientists, developers, and geographic information system (GIS) professionals to create and analyze intricate maps. It allows users to visualize data on multiple map projections and customize their maps using various Python tools. Basemap is widely used for generating static, animated, or interactive maps for geospatial analysis, research, and communication.
onX
onX, on the other hand, is a powerful mapping solution primarily focused on outdoor recreationists, such as hikers, hunters, and off-road enthusiasts. With detailed, accurate information on millions of acres of public land and private property, onX enables users to plan and navigate their outdoor adventures confidently. It is available as a web and smartphone app with numerous tools, like map layers, waypoints, and tracking features.
Platform Availability
Basemap
As mentioned earlier, Basemap is a Python library, which can be installed using pip, a package installer for Python. Users can then import the library into their Python scripts and start making use of its mapping capabilities. The most common integrated development environments (IDEs) for working with Basemap are Jupyter Notebook and Spyder.
onX
onX offers a seamless experience across multiple platforms. Users can access it through their web browsers with the onX Web Map or download and install the onX smartphone app on iOS and Android devices. As a tool primarily designed for outdoor enthusiasts, the mobile app enables location-tracking and offline maps, which adds more value for users when exploring remote locations without cellular service.
Use Cases
Basemap
Being a versatile mapping tool, Basemap finds application in various fields, including:
- Data visualization and analysis for GIS professionals and researchers.
- Statistical representation of geographical phenomena, such as climate or earthquake data.
- Creation of custom maps and geospatial plots for web applications, presentations, or publications.
- Environmental and ecological study or monitoring projects.
- Integration with other Python modules for advanced data analysis, machine learning, or hydrological modeling.
onX
onX is best suited for those planning or participating in outdoor activities, offering several beneficial use cases:
- Planning and navigating public and private land for activities like hunting, hiking, or camping.
- Identifying land ownership boundaries, property lines, or points of interest.
- Mapping off-road trails, open roads, or off-limits areas for off-roading and overlanding enthusiasts.
- Storing waypoints, measuring distances, or establishing boundaries for wildlife or land management.
- Off-grid navigation with offline maps in areas without cellular service or mobile data.
Key Features
Basemap
- Customizable map projections, covering the entire world or focusing on specific regions.
- Highly interactive mapping capabilities, allowing zooming, panning, and linking to external data sources.
- Integration with Python libraries such as NumPy, Matplotlib, and Pandas.
- An extensive collection of map datasets and high-resolution imagery.
- Ability to overlay geospatial data, draw polygons, lines, markers, and labels on maps.
- Open-source and free, benefiting from a large user base and ongoing development.
onX
- Highly detailed and regularly updated land ownership information, including private, state, and federal lands.
- A vast collection of map overlays for various outdoor activities, such as hunting zones, hiking trails, or boat ramps.
- Offline mapping capabilities for navigation in areas without network coverage.
- Customizable waypoints, tracking features, and area measurement tools.
- Real-time weather updates, including radar, temperature, and wind speed.
- Route planning and sharing options for group adventures or collaboration.
Pricing
Basemap
Basemap is an open-source Python library, available at no cost to users. Data scientists, developers, and researchers can take advantage of its rich features and customization options free of charge.
onX
onX offers a free version with basic mapping features. However, to access the full range of features, users need to subscribe to one of their paid plans – onX Hunt or onX Offroad.
- OnX Hunt: Aimed at hunters, this subscription includes state-specific mapping information for hunting areas, zones, and more. Annual pricing for one state costs $29.99/year, and the Elite membership that covers all 50 states costs $99.99/year.
- OnX Offroad: Targeted at off-roading enthusiasts, this subscription provides access to off-road and overlanding maps. It has a single pricing plan of $29.99/year, covering all 50 states.
Choosing the Right Mapping Tool for Your Needs
Both Basemap and onX offer a plethora of powerful features and benefits for different users. If you are a developer, data scientist, or GIS professional seeking advanced customization and geospatial analysis, Basemap is the preferable choice. As an open-source Python library, it provides remarkable flexibility, integration, and interactivity.
However, if you are an outdoor enthusiast, hunter, or off-road adventurer looking for accurate land ownership information and detailed outdoor maps with tracking capabilities, onX is the better option. Its comprehensive maps, offline navigation, and robust mobile app make it an invaluable tool in the great outdoors.
Regardless of your mapping needs, Basemap and onX are both exceptional platforms that cater to specific user requirements. Evaluate your goals, audience, and the level of customization you require to make the right choice between these two remarkable mapping tools.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is BaseMap better than onXmaps?
Both BaseMap and onXmaps have their unique features and benefits, making it difficult to declare one better than the other. It depends on the user’s preferences and requirements. BaseMap is known for its 3D mapping capabilities and excellent functionality, while onXmaps offers better offline performance and has more area-specific details. Users should try both apps to determine which best matches their needs.
Is BaseMap a good hunting app?
Yes, BaseMap is a reputable hunting app as it provides valuable tools for hunters such as detailed topographic maps, tracking, waypoints, and more. Its advanced features, such as sharing locations with other hunters, the ability to measure distances, record tracks, and import/export data, makes it a top choice among hunting enthusiasts.
Can you use BaseMap as GPS?
Yes, BaseMap may be used as a GPS device for navigation and tracking. The app provides location data, topographic maps, satellite imagery, and other useful tools for outdoor navigation. It can also work off-grid, enabling users to access maps and location data even when there is no cellular connection.
Who makes BaseMap?
BaseMap, Inc., an American company specializing in the creation and development of GPS mapping apps, makes BaseMap. The company focuses on providing outdoor enthusiasts with a reliable mapping platform for hunting, fishing, and other outdoor activities.
What is the cost of using BaseMap and onXmaps?
Both BaseMap and onXmaps offer free versions of their apps with limited features. For advanced features, BaseMap has a Pro subscription available at $29.99 per year. On the other hand, onXmaps offers an Elite subscription at $99.99 per year or a Premium subscription at $29.99 per year, depending on the coverage area and features one prefers.
Do BaseMap and onXmaps work on both Android and iOS devices?
Yes, both BaseMap and onXmaps apps are available for Android and iOS devices. Users can download the apps from the Google Play Store or the Apple App Store and install them on their smartphones and tablets.
Do BaseMap and onXmaps work offline?
Yes, both BaseMap and onXmaps allow users to download maps for offline use. This capability ensures that users have access to map data even in remote areas without a cellular signal. Users need to download map data when they have internet connectivity to access the data when offline.
Can you share waypoints and tracks between BaseMap and onXmaps?
While each app has its own native format for waypoints and tracks, users can export and import GPX files from one app to another. This allows users to share waypoints and tracks between BaseMap and onXmaps, but keep in mind that some specific features and information might not transfer seamlessly between the two apps.
What types of maps are available in BaseMap and onXmaps?
Both BaseMap and onXmaps provide access to various maps, including topographic maps, satellite imagery, hybrid maps, and other specialized maps. Additionally, both apps offer layers for land ownership, hunting zones, hiking trails, and other area-specific features that cater to outdoor enthusiasts.
Can I use BaseMap and onXmaps for activities other than hunting?
Yes, although BaseMap and onXmaps are popular hunting apps, they also cater to a wide range of outdoor activities. Users can utilize these apps for hiking, fishing, camping, off-roading, and many other adventure-filled activities that require accurate location data and maps.
I've learned a lot along the way and I'm always eager to share my experiences with others. I firmly believe in the importance of ethical hunting practices and and sustainable use of our natural resources, and I do my best to promote these principles in all of my adventures. Hunting is more than just a hobby for me, it's a way of life.
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