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Headway vs Google Maps: catalog facts
Headway	Google Maps
Best for: Self-hosters who want private map search and routing	Best for: Everyday driving, transit and local search
Free Free to download and run from its public repository.	Free Free to use.
Web, Self-hosted	Android, iOS, Web
Search and routing on your own server Docker Compose setup with optional transit routing All 3 strengths for Headway Search and routing on your own server Docker Compose setup with optional transit routing Can cover a single region or the whole planet	Real-time traffic and lane guidance Public transit directions All 4 strengths for Google Maps Real-time traffic and lane guidance Public transit directions Street View imagery Extensive local business listings
Requires server resources and map data preparation Aimed at people comfortable running several services	Tied to Google's data collection Offline use limited to downloaded areas
Self-hosted	Downloadable app, Web application
Open source	Not open source
License not stated	License not stated
No account needed	No account needed
Not stated if it works offline	Offline features available
Official website Full listing and sources Sources for Headway github.com/headwaymaps/headway Catalog checked September 23, 2026	Official website Full listing and sources Sources for Google Maps google.com/maps play.google.com/store/apps/details apps.apple.com/us/app/google-maps/id585027354 Catalog checked September 23, 2026

“Not stated” means we have not confirmed it. Features can vary by device and plan.