Google+Earth+v+Maps

Google Earth vs. Google Maps

 * Two mapping products from Google, Earth and Maps, share many attributes. Both show satellite images for the entire Earth and both have street maps. You can search for places in both of them and they both let you zoom in and out to see more or less detail.

They differ primarily in Google Maps being based on a 2D model and Google Earth using a 3D model. The other significant difference is that Google Maps is a Web application, while Google Earth is a stand-alone program that connects to the Internet.

The basic development of these two mapping resources was done somewhat independently, so they differ in lots of little details. However, they are increasingly sharing capabilities. You can even move back and forth between them.

The focus here will be on Google Earth. That doesn't mean that you should neglect using Google Maps. It is an equally helpful resource. ||