Google Maps Transit Navigation is a versatile option for users needing transit information across a wide geographic area and integration with multiple transportation modes. New York City Subway is better suited for users who primarily rely on the NYC subway system, offering detailed information and integration with local apps, but with limitations in accessibility.
| Attribute | Google Maps Transit Navigation | New York City Subway |
|---|---|---|
| Real-time arrival information accuracy | Uses data from transit agencies and crowdsourced data, but can be unreliable. | Varies, countdown clock technology tested at 97% accuracy. |
| Offline accessibility of schedules/maps | Offers offline maps for directions without internet. | Available through apps like Citymapper and New York Subway MTA Map & Route Planner. |
| Coverage area and network density | Catalogs public transit information from over 100 countries and 25,000 towns, partnering with over 800 public transportation providers globally. | Extensive, serving four of the five boroughs with 468 stations. |
| Ease of use for route planning | Generally considered easy to use for route planning. | Apps like Google Maps, Citymapper, and the MTA app are designed to help users plan routes. |
| Integration with other navigation apps | Connects transit directions with biking and ride-sharing options. | Google Maps is fully integrated; some apps integrate with Uber. |
| Clarity and accuracy of directions | Provides spoken turn-by-turn directions for walking, biking, and driving; walking for transit shown as dots on the map. | Google Maps and the MTA app offer step-by-step navigation. |
| Customization options (e.g., preferred routes, accessibility needs) | Allows customization of route preferences, such as less walking or fewer transfers; avoid tolls, highways, or ferries. | Citymapper allows route customization (minimize walking, transfers, accessibility needs); the MTA app allows travel by only buses, only subways, or both. |
| Crowd-sourcing features (e.g., real-time delay reports) | Uses aggregated and anonymized data to show transit station crowdedness; users can contribute crowdedness information. | Moovit includes user-generated updates. |
| Reliability of service | Reliability can vary; sometimes rules out the most effective route. | Varies by line; overall on-time performance was 82.1% in 2024. |
| Ticket purchase and payment integration | Integrates with Google Pay to pay for parking, tolls, and public transportation at over 80 transit agencies. | OMNY, MTA app, TrainTime. |
| Accessibility for disabled passengers | Offers "wheelchair accessible" routes with accessible buses, trains, and stations. | 72% of stations are not accessible as of January 2025; goal of 95% accessibility by 2055. |
| Safety and security measures | Displays relevant alerts, like face mask requirements; provides driving alerts for COVID-19 checkpoints; shows transit crowdedness predictions; uses encryption to protect user data. | Increased law enforcement presence, security cameras, and protective barriers. |
| Price | Not available | Not available |