MyTopo is an extensive map website offering map software, printed maps and online maps. The site also has a section of historical maps that can be viewed online or purchased as laminated prints. For this review, we focused on the portion of the website called MyTopo MapServer, which includes topographical maps, nautical charts, aeronautical charts and “nav photos” (satellite images).
The extensive collection of printable and customizable maps on MyTopo MapServer have earned it a spot on our list of the best sites for online maps.
The design of this site is streamlined, with a white background and very few graphic elements. MyTopo’s main page has links to the three main areas of the site: MapServer, Map Print Service and Historical Maps. Once you choose MapServer from this list, you can enter your search location in the bar above the maps. The search fields are designed for U.S. locations but if you click on “advanced search” you can search international maps and also search using different criteria like latitude/longitude.
MapServer specializes in topographical, aeronautical and nautical maps, which can be viewed online, emailed, printed at home or ordered as a professional print from the website. The site also offers a paid application that includes much more functionality (for example, the satellite view option is only included in the paid upgrade).
Once you’ve searched for a location and received your map, you can use the directional arrows to pan the map and the zoom bar to zoom in and out.
The “Fun Tools” menu has some unique features not offered on any of the other sites we surveyed. In a few simple steps you can create custom labels with icons and place them on a map. Your customized map can then be saved, emailed or printed without registering an account on the site. You can find these options within the “Fun Tools” menu. Alternately, you can create a map with custom labels and then order a professional-quality print through the website.
The free version of the MapServer application does not allow uploads but the paid version (map packages are purchased by state) offers more options for syncing your map with a cell phone or GPS device.
MapServer is easy to search using the fields on the top left, but if you want maps for any country besides the U.S. you have to use the advanced search options. The unique “Fun Tools” feature is very easy to use by following a few simple steps. There is also a tutorial for anyone who needs a bit more help.
The MyTopo MapServer website includes a section of FAQs for new or advanced users. There is also a user forum for users to share information and answer each other’s questions, and a user’s manual to help new users get started.
MyTopo MapServer is the best site we found for map prints, and the only site that offered a very simple way to add custom labels to a map. You can use any of the map view options for your custom prints. If you want to order a keepsake map showing a recent hiking trip and add a special icon for where you fell into a lake, this site can help you achieve that easily.
