GIS format comparisons

Compare GIS file formats

Choose the right GIS format by comparing structure, coordinate systems, limitations, editing and software compatibility.

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Each guide gives a direct recommendation, a side-by-side table and practical migration checks.

ShapefileGeoJSON

Shapefile vs GeoJSON

Choose GeoJSON for new web, API and version-control workflows. Choose Shapefile when a client, agency or legacy desktop GIS explicitly requires it. When either is accepted, GeoJSON is usually easier to move and inspect; Shapefile remains the safer compatibility choice for older GIS systems.

Compare Shapefile vs GeoJSON

KMLKMZ

KML vs KMZ

Choose KML when the document is small and you want to inspect, edit or version it as text. Choose KMZ when you want a smaller single file, need to bundle referenced assets, or plan to email and distribute a finished Google Earth project.

Compare KML vs KMZ