GeoJSON vs KML: Modern Web GIS vs Legacy Google Earth Format
Comparing spatial data formats: GeoJSON vs KML. Which format should you use for web mapping, Leaflet, Mapbox, and GIS pipelines?
GeoJSON is an open JSON-based geospatial standard used natively by Mapbox, Leaflet, and modern JavaScript web maps. KML is an XML-based format developed by Keyhole (Google) for 3D Earth visualization and styling annotations.
| FEATURE | GEOJSON | KML |
|---|---|---|
| Data Encoding | JSON (RFC 7946) | XML (OGC Standard) |
| Browser Parsing Speed | Instant (JSON.parse) | Slower (DOMParser / xml2js) |
| Coordinate Order | [Longitude, Latitude, Elevation] | [Longitude, Latitude, Altitude] |
| 3D Camera Tours | No native camera schema | Yes (<Camera>, <LookAt>) |
| Web Mapping Ecosystem | Industry Standard | Legacy / Conversion required |
- Native JSON format parsed instantly by JavaScript with zero XML overhead
- Standard payload format for Mapbox GL, Leaflet, and OpenLayers
- Compact syntax and easy manipulation in backend Node/Python APIs
- Supported natively in MongoDB, PostgreSQL (PostGIS), and Elasticsearch
- Native support for 3D camera angles, fly-overs, and altitudes in Google Earth
- Supports embedded visual styling (placemark icons, line widths, balloons)
- Can be packaged with custom images and 3D models as KMZ archives
Use GeoJSON for all modern web maps, dashboards, and spatial data APIs. Use KML only when creating presentations or tours for Google Earth.
CHROME WEB STORE · LIVE
Converting files between GEOJSON and KML frequently? The convrtr Chrome Extension lets you right-click any image on any webpage or open the Side Panel to convert assets instantly using local WebAssembly with zero server uploads.