Mapbox vs SmartyStreets: What are the differences?

Introduction Mapbox and SmartyStreets are both geocoding services that provide developers with the ability to convert addresses into geographic coordinates. However, there are some key differences between the two services that set them apart in terms of their features and functionalities.

1. Coverage and Data Sources: Mapbox offers global coverage and integrates data from a variety of sources including OpenStreetMap, satellite imagery, and other proprietary data. On the other hand, SmartyStreets primarily focuses on the United States and sources its data from official government records and postal authorities. This difference in coverage and data sources means that Mapbox may have more comprehensive and detailed geocoding results globally, while SmartyStreets may provide more accurate and up-to-date results specifically within the United States.

2. Pricing and Plans: Mapbox offers a tiered pricing structure based on usage, with different plans available for developers of various scales. The pricing is flexible and allows users to pay for what they need. SmartyStreets, on the other hand, offers simple pricing plans based on the number of lookups and does not have tiered pricing options. This difference makes SmartyStreets a more straightforward and predictable choice for businesses with fixed geocoding needs, while Mapbox provides more flexibility for those with varying or scalable usage.

3. Additional Services: In addition to geocoding, Mapbox offers a wide range of additional mapping and location-based services such as map rendering, routing, and spatial analysis tools. These additional services enable developers to build more complex and feature-rich mapping applications. SmartyStreets, on the other hand, primarily focuses on geocoding and does not provide extensive additional services like Mapbox. This difference makes Mapbox a more comprehensive solution for developers looking for a complete mapping and location platform.

4. Customizability and Branding: Mapbox allows developers to customize the appearance and style of their maps, offering greater control over the visual presentation of the map data. This level of customization enables developers to create unique and branded mapping experiences for their users. SmartyStreets, on the other hand, does not offer the same level of customization options for map styling and appearance. This difference makes Mapbox a more suitable choice for developers who require a high level of branding and customization in their mapping applications.

5. Developer Tools and Documentation: Mapbox provides a comprehensive set of developer tools, SDKs, APIs, and extensive documentation to support developers in integrating their geocoding and mapping services into their applications. The developer community around Mapbox is also relatively larger, providing access to a broader range of resources and support. SmartyStreets, while also offering developer tools and documentation, may not have the same level of extensive resources and community support as Mapbox. This difference in developer resources makes Mapbox a more favorable choice for developers who seek a robust and well-supported development environment.

6. Data Accuracy and Deduplication: SmartyStreets has rigorous address deduplication and cleansing processes, ensuring higher accuracy in geocoding results within the United States. This means that SmartyStreets may yield more accurate and standardized results specifically for U.S. addresses compared to Mapbox. While Mapbox also employs data cleansing and deduplication techniques, SmartyStreets' specialized focus on U.S. addresses gives it an edge in terms of address accuracy within the country.

In summary, Mapbox offers global coverage, more customization options, additional services, a flexible pricing structure, and extensive developer resources, making it a comprehensive and versatile mapping and location platform. On the other hand, SmartyStreets primarily focuses on U.S. addresses, offers simpler pricing plans, specializes in address deduplication, and may provide more accurate results within the United States.