GPX vs KML: GPS Activity Tracklogs vs Rich Geospatial Markup
Compare GPX and KML geospatial formats. Understand GPS waypoint recording, Google Earth 3D overlays, drone mapping, and converting to GeoJSON.
GPX is the universal XML exchange format for GPS devices, smartwatches, and fitness trackers focused on time-series track points. KML is Google Earth's geospatial markup language designed for rich 3D visualization, polygons, camera angles, and styled spatial overlays.
| FEATURE | GPX | KML |
|---|---|---|
| Originator | Topografix | Keyhole Inc. / Google / OGC standard |
| Underlying Syntax | XML (<gpx>) | XML (<kml>) |
| Primary Data Model | Waypoints, routes, trackpoints (lat/lon/ele/time) | Placemarks, geometries, styles, folders, tours |
| Styling & Colors | Very limited (extensions only) | Extensive (Style, LineStyle, PolyStyle, IconStyle) |
| Google Earth Integration | Basic import | Native complete feature support |
| Fitness Device Support | Universal standard | Unsupported by bike computers & GPS watches |
- Universal standard for GPS units (Garmin, Wahoo, Strava, Komoot, Suunto)
- Built specifically for sequential trackpoints with elevation, time, and heart rate telemetry
- Lean, simple schema supported by all outdoor recreation and trail mapping apps
- Direct import into GPS hardware navigation units without transformation
- Rich geographic styling with custom colored pins, line widths, and 3D polygon extrusions
- Supports camera vantage points, tour animations, and ground overlays in Google Earth
- Can package icons and models into compressed KMZ archives
- Comprehensive polygon boundary and territory visualization support
Use GPX when tracking, logging, or exporting GPS trails for outdoor fitness and navigation devices. Use KML when presenting styled spatial boundaries, territories, or 3D tours in Google Earth. Convert both to GeoJSON for web mapping APIs.
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