How to use Google Maps to measure distance

Device links

• Android
• iPhone
• Mac
• windows
• Device missing?

Google Maps allows you to measure the distance between two points. You can also add multiple points to a map. All of which means you can measure the actual distance between any selected location. But when will this be useful?

This article will explain how to measure distances using Google Maps and the various ways to use the feature on different devices.

Measure distance on iPhone and iPad

If you want to measure the distance between two points, you will undoubtedly need to be very precise. Enter Google Maps. The following steps will allow you to measure the correct distance with an Apple device:

1. Open Google Maps.
   
2. Press and hold the map until a red marker appears.
   
3. Click “Measure Distance.”
   
4. Move the map until the black circle is where you want to add the next point.
   
5. At the bottom of the map, click “Add Point.”
   
6. Click the back arrow at the top when you’re done.
   

Measure distance on Android

The process is similar on an Android device. This is what you should do:

1. Open Google Maps.
   
2. Press and hold the screen until a red pin appears.
   
3. Click “Measure Distance.”
   
4. Move the map until the black circle is where you want to add the next point.
   
5. At the bottom of the map, click “Add Point.”
   
6. Click the back arrow at the top when you’re done.
   

Note: On iPhone and Android, when you tap the map in Step 2, don’t tap a name or icon that’s already there. You can undo the last point you made by clicking “Undo” or delete each point by clicking “More” and “Delete” at the top.

Measure distance on a Mac

The following steps will help you measure distance using a Mac:

1. Right-click the starting point (control-click or two-finger click on a trackpad).
   
2. Go to the context menu.
3. Click “Measure Distance.”
   

Measure distance on a PC

The following steps will allow you to measure the distance using a PC.

1. Open Google Maps.
   
2. Right click where you want your starting point to be.
   
3. Click “Measure Distance.”
   
4. Click on the map anywhere to make a custom path.
   
5. Click “Close” at the bottom when you’re done.
   

Note: If you need to move a point, simply click and drag it. If you need to remove it completely, all you have to do is click on it.

However, you cannot measure distance if you are using light mode. Look for the lightning bolt to determine if you are in light mode.

Another version of Google Maps

If the map you’re on doesn’t move smoothly, there are two other Google Maps you can use:

1. Default: In this version you will only see the map in default mode.
   
2. Satellite: This version will show you more details including 2D and 3D views.
   

If you want to enable Satellite mode, press the “Layers/Satellite” icon at the bottom left.

How to enable 3D mode

In 3D mode, you’ll see 3D buildings and elements, satellite images, and more. This version will give you smoother zoom and transitions. To use 3D mode, follow these steps:

1. In satellite mode, open Google Maps.
   
2. Verify that globe view is enabled.
   To do this, hover over “Layers,” tap “More,” and click the “Global View” box.
   
3. Tap the 3D icon at the bottom below the compass.
   

How to enable 2D mode

This mode works best on older computers. You will not have 3D images.

To use 2D mode, go to google maps.

How to calibrate Google Maps

You may be able to get more accurate directions on your mobile devices by calibrating Google Maps.

1. Go to “Settings” and then “Location.”
   
2. Move “Wi-Fi scanning and Bluetooth scanning” to “On.”
   

How to improve location accuracy

Google Maps can calculate a distance with excellent accuracy. Unfortunately, it may be a little off from time to time. But there are some things you can do to help improve accuracy.

Activate Wi-Fi:

Smartphones use Wi-Fi by querying databases of networks known as Wi-Fi. This, along with GPS factors, determines your location is correct.

You can recalibrate your phone by resetting its location services when you turn it off and on again.

1. From the top of the screen, swipe down.
   
2. Tap and hold the location icon.
   

Restarting your phone can fix many problems, including inaccurate location data.

1. Press and hold the power button.
2. Select “Restart” or “Shut Down.”
   

Update your operating system:

This is for iPhone and Android devices. New versions of smartphones also bring new features and fix bugs, so installing the latest updates can also improve your location accuracy.

1. Go to settings.”
   
2. Click “System App Updater” and check for updates.
   

Frequent questions

What if Google Maps doesn’t work on my computer?

You can search for directions to places and businesses simply by using Google Search.

What happens if I don’t see the full 3D version of the map?

You should check your browser, as some will block the WebGL used to create 3D images.

Can I use Google Maps offline?

You can save Google Maps for offline use. The maps you download can be viewed in the Google Maps app.

Map your destination

Navigation is an important part of your travel plans and can provide you with the best possible route. With Google Maps you can follow a route from point A to point B or make your own route by adding points along the way. You will not only get information on how long it will take you to complete your trip, but also the distance measured between the two points.

Have you used Google Maps to measure a distance? Did you use any of the tips and tricks in this article? Tell us in the comments p below.