GPS Format Guides

Practical guides on GPS file formats and how to convert between them.

• GPX vs KML: Which Should You Use? GPX is built for GPS devices and tracking apps; KML is built for Google Earth and mapping. Here's how to tell them apart, and how to convert between them.
• GPX vs TCX: What's the Difference? TCX extends GPX with training data: heart rate, cadence, laps. Here's when you need one over the other.
• GPX vs FIT: Understanding the Difference FIT is a compact binary format built for fitness devices; GPX is a universal, text-based standard most GPS software reads. Here's how they compare.
• GPX vs GeoJSON: What's the Difference? GeoJSON is the standard for web mapping libraries; GPX is the standard for GPS devices and hiking/cycling apps. Here's when to use each.
• How to Convert a Google Maps Route to GPX Planned a route in Google Maps but need it on your GPS device? Here's the fastest way to turn it into a standard GPX file.
• What Is a KMZ File? KMZ is just a KML file (Google Earth's format) zipped up, often with icons or images bundled in. Here's what that means for converting it to GPX.
• How to Simplify a GPS Track Without Losing Its Shape A GPX recorded every second can have thousands of points. Here's how simplification trims that down without distorting the route.
• How to Merge Multiple GPX Tracks Into One File Recorded a multi-day trip as separate GPX files? Here's how to combine them into a single track, or a single file with separate segments.
• How to Send a Google Maps Route to Garmin Google Maps doesn't export a route straight to Garmin. Convert it to GPX first, then load it as a course on your device.
• How to Send a Google Maps Route to Wahoo Google Maps doesn't hand a route to Wahoo directly. Convert it to GPX first, then import it with the Wahoo app.
• How to Use a Google Maps Route in OsmAnd OsmAnd doesn't open a Google Maps link directly, but it navigates from GPX tracks, which is exactly what SmartGPX generates.