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GeoJSON vs KML: A Simple Comparison Guide

Developers, GIS researchers, and mapping aficionados frequently have to choose between GeoJSON and KML in the rapidly changing world of geographic data formats. Although geospatial data is frequently stored and shared using both, there are notable differences in their performance, compatibility, and structure. To assist you in selecting the best format for your project, this guide offers a technical breakdown.


GeoJSON vs KML
GeoJSON vs KML

What is GeoJSON?


A lightweight JSON-based format called GeoJSON was created to encode several types of geographic data structures.

It adheres to the standards outlined in RFC 7946 and is based on JavaScript Object Notation (JSON).


Important aspects of GeoJSON:


  • Point, MultiPoint, LineString, MultiLineString, Polygon, MultiPolygon, and GeometryCollection are among the geometry types that are encoded.

  • Feature and Feature Support: To link properties to geometries, collect objects.

  • Its default coordinate reference system is WGS 84 (EPSG:4326).

  • Specifically made for online applications using mapping libraries such as OpenLayers, Leaflet, and Mapbox GL JS.


Example:


{

"type": "Feature",

"geometry": {

"type": "Point",

"coordinates": [77.5946, 12.9716]

},

"properties": {

"name": "Bengaluru"

}

}


What is KML?


The XML-based KML (Keyhole Markup Language) format was first created for Google Earth. Later, the Open Geospatial Consortium (OGC) standardized it.


KML's salient traits include:


  • Encrypts picture overlays, polygons, lines, and points.

  • Rich style features include balloon pop-ups, colours, opacity, and icons.

  • Allows for the representation of temporal data through time-based animations.

  • Integrates well with other GIS platforms, including Google Earth and Maps.


Example:


<Placemark>

<name>Bengaluru</name>

<Point>

<coordinates>77.5946,12.9716,0</coordinates>

</Point>

</Placemark>


Technical Comparison: GeoJSON vs KML

Feature

GeoJSON

KML

Format Type

JSON (text-based, human-readable)

XML (text-based, verbose)

OGC Standard

RFC 7946

OGC KML 2.2

Geometry Types

Point, LineString, Polygon, Multi-geometries

Point, LineString, Polygon, MultiGeometry, Model

Coordinate System

WGS 84 (EPSG:4326) only

WGS 84 (EPSG:4326) only

File Size Efficiency

Smaller due to JSON compression

Larger due to XML verbosity

Styling Support

Limited (handled mostly by mapping libraries)

Extensive (colors, icons, 3D models, labels)

Time Support

Not native

Built-in <TimeSpan> and <TimeStamp>

Web Integration

Excellent (native for JavaScript APIs)

Limited without conversion

Best For

Web mapping, APIs, and real-time GIS

Visualization, Google Earth, 3D geospatial contexts


When to Use GeoJSON


Select GeoJSON if


  • You are creating interactive maps for the web.

  • Your data is regularly updated and powered by APIs.

  • You need quick parsing and portable storage.

  • JavaScript mapping libraries are what you're working with.


When to Use KML


Select KML if


  • Rich visualization using 3D models, styles, and iconography is required.

  • Google Earth or Google Maps (with KML layers) are your target environments.

  • Time-based geographical events must be represented.

  • XML must work with older GIS systems.


KML is superior in use cases that are primarily focused on Google Earth and involve a lot of visualization, whereas GeoJSON is best suited for online and API-first applications. Your process, the platform you want to use, and the features you need will all influence your decision.

Depending on your target audience, you can export your source data to GeoJSON or KML and save it in a more neutral format (such as GeoPackage) for optimal flexibility.


For more information or any questions regarding the GeoJSON and KML, please don't hesitate to contact us at


USA (HQ): (720) 702–4849


(A GeoWGS84 Corp Company)

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