OkMap vs OziExplorer: Which One Should You Choose for GPS and Raster Maps?

Comparison between OkMap and OziExplorer for raster maps, georeferencing, GPX tracks, and outdoor activities. Discover the main differences.

Introduction

OziExplorer and OkMap are both focused on the management of raster maps, GPS tracks, and outdoor navigation. Although they share many core features, they differ in operational approach, analysis tools, and support for more recent mapping technologies.

Prerequisites

Basic knowledge of GPS and GPX files
Minimal experience with digital maps
Interest in trekking and outdoor navigation

Topics covered

Offline raster map management
GPX track and waypoint analysis
Georeferencing and map calibration
GPS compatibility and supported formats
Advanced outdoor analysis functions

Offline map management

OziExplorer is historically known for the use of calibrated raster maps, especially in off-road, 4x4 and traditional outdoor navigation.

OkMap supports offline raster maps and integrates tools for Digital Elevation Models (DEM), elevation analysis, elevation profiles, and detailed study of outdoor routes.

GPX management and track analysis

Both software applications support GPX import and export, but OkMap is more oriented toward technical track analysis, with dedicated tools for statistics, elevation gain, elevation profiles and GPS data correction.

OziExplorer instead maintains a more traditional approach, focused on navigation and manual raster map management.

Map georeferencing

Both programs allow the calibration of scanned maps using geographic control points.

OkMap also includes dedicated tools for managing coordinate systems, geodetic datums, map transformations and conversions between different map projections.

Terrain analysis and DEM

While OziExplorer is traditionally focused on raster map management and GPS navigation, OkMap integrates specific tools for terrain analysis based on Digital Elevation Models (DEM).

With OkMap it is possible to generate elevation profiles, analyze slopes, slope aspect, and correct GPS track elevations using DEM data.

GPS compatibility

OziExplorer supports numerous GPS formats and is widely used in professional and technical environments.

OkMap instead focuses on modern GPX data management, with workflows more oriented toward hiking, cycling, trekking and outdoor activities.

Which one should you choose?

OziExplorer remains highly appreciated by experienced users who have worked for years with traditional raster cartography and dedicated GPS devices.

OkMap is particularly interesting for users looking for a more modern environment, with advanced tools for GPS analysis, DEM management and technical study of outdoor routes.

Practical tips

Use good quality and properly calibrated raster maps
Always verify datum and cartographic projection
Check the accuracy of recorded GPX tracks
Use DEM data to improve elevation analysis

Common mistakes

Confusing geographic coordinates and UTM systems
Using maps that are not correctly georeferenced
Analyzing GPS tracks without correcting elevation errors
Ignoring compatibility between different GPS formats

Frequently Asked Questions

Is OziExplorer still used?

Yes. OziExplorer is still used by many outdoor GPS, off-road, and raster mapping enthusiasts, especially long-time users of the software.

Can OkMap replace OziExplorer?

For many users, yes. OkMap offers advanced features for georeferencing, GPX tracks, DEM data, and cartographic analysis that cover most of the typical needs of OziExplorer users.

Which software is better for raster maps?

Both support georeferenced raster maps, but OkMap integrates additional tools for terrain analysis, DEM data, and advanced GPS track management.

Does OkMap support OziExplorer files?

Yes. OkMap can import numerous formats used in the OziExplorer ecosystem, making migration to new mapping workflows easier.

Summary

OkMap and OziExplorer are both very valuable tools for outdoor GPS cartography. OziExplorer is strongly oriented toward traditional offline raster maps, while OkMap integrates modern features for GPX analysis, DEM and technical study of outdoor routes.

Do you want to apply these concepts with OkMap?

After reading the technical articles, you can continue learning with practical video tutorials or download OkMap Desktop and work directly with maps, GPX tracks and GPS data.

Download Manual Video tutorials

Free software for Windows - Complete PDF manual - Video tutorials