Learn what a DXF file is, how DXF differs from DWG, why CRS matters in GIS, and how to open or convert CAD drawings to GeoJSON, KML, or Shapefile.
Learn what an OSM PBF file is, how it compares with OSM XML and GeoJSON, when to use regional extracts, and how to open or convert PBF data online.
Compare GIS data loading from local files to raster tiles, vector tiles, and PMTiles. Choose the right delivery pattern for browser maps and large datasets.
Learn how GeoDataViewer supports Cloud Optimized GeoTIFF (COG) and standard GeoTIFF files — drag-and-drop raster visualization in your browser.
Extract POIs from OpenStreetMap PBF or Overture Maps GeoParquet for EV charging stations, gas stations, and other places with practical GIS workflows.
Preview Shapefile, GeoJSON, KML, PMTiles, and other geospatial files inside VS Code without opening a full desktop GIS.
Compare GIS viewers from ArcGIS and QGIS to Kepler.gl and GeoDataViewer. Desktop vs browser, cost, format support, and speed.
FileGDB vs GeoPackage compared for ArcGIS and open GIS: choose FileGDB for ESRI workflows or GeoPackage for portable, multi-layer storage.
GeoJSON vs GeoPackage compared: size, portability, multi-layer support, and when to convert for web maps or GIS workflows.
GeoJSON vs Shapefile compared for GIS data exchange: choose GeoJSON for web maps and APIs or Shapefile for legacy GIS, government portals, and CRS flexibility.
GML vs GeoJSON compared for GIS: keep GML for OGC/WFS schemas or choose GeoJSON for web maps, APIs, and fast browser inspection.
GPX vs GeoJSON compared: keep GPX for GPS tracks, routes, and waypoints; choose GeoJSON for web maps, APIs, and flexible GIS properties.
Step-by-step: open a Shapefile online in your browser, upload the required sidecar files, and troubleshoot missing .dbf/.shx/.prj issues.
KML vs GeoJSON explained: compatibility, typical use cases, and the simplest way to open and convert files for modern web mapping.
MapInfo vs Shapefile compared: sidecar files, compatibility, and when to convert TAB or MIF/MID datasets into Shapefile or GeoJSON.
Shapefile vs GeoPackage compared: choose Shapefile for legacy compatibility or GeoPackage for one-file, multi-layer GIS workflows.
Learn what an SHP file is, why a Shapefile also needs DBF, SHX, and PRJ files, and how to open or convert the complete dataset online.
What is an ESRI File Geodatabase (FileGDB)? Learn how its folder-based layers and tables work, how to open a zipped GDB, and how to convert it online.
What is GeoJSON and why is it common in web maps and APIs? Learn the file structure, geometry types, RFC 7946 rules, limitations, and how to view or validate it online.
What is a GeoPackage (GPKG) file? Learn why it replaces multi-file GIS formats, what it stores, and how to open or convert GeoPackage data online.
What is GML (Geography Markup Language)? Learn how OGC GML stores GIS features in XML and how to open, inspect, or convert GML files online.
What is a GPX file? Learn how GPS Exchange Format stores tracks, routes, and waypoints, and how to open or convert GPX online for maps and GPS apps.
What are KML and KMZ files? Learn how Google Earth formats store placemarks, paths, polygons, and overlays, and how to open or convert them online.
Learn what MapInfo TAB and MIF/MID files are, how sidecar files work, and how to open or convert MapInfo datasets online.
Learn what GML is, how it compares to GeoJSON, common use cases, and how to open and visualize GML files using GeoDataViewer.
A secure, local-first GIS data viewer and converter directly in your browser.