10 jQuery Google Map Plugins

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Here are 10 very different jQuery Google Maps Plugins to make life as easy as a street map. You might only want to display a simple map that displays directions to your clients address, or even an interactive map with more options as necessary. The plugins below offer not only an easier method to install a map, they also offer the option to add extra functionality, and should you choose to need them. Happy mapping! Related Posts:

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1. gMap

A lightweight jQuery plugin that helps you embed Google Maps into your website. With only 2 KB in size it is very flexible and highly customizable. Update 21/08/2011: latest updates on the gMap plugin. gMap.jpg Source

2. jQuery GPS

A jQuery plugin for people that want to add Google maps to their website, but don’t want their website to be bogged down with features they don’t need. A lightweight and simple solution to all your Google Map needs. Add inputs for addresses by simply adding default or custom ID’s. You can use any element to trigger the event! So it doesn’t need to be embedded inside a form. jQuery-GPS.jpg Source

3. googlemaps

This plugins makes it easy to put a Google Map on your page. You will need a valid Google Maps API key from http://www.google.com/apis/maps/. Look at the source code of this page if you want to know how to use the plugin. Markers can be provided by a jQuery object (containing elements in the geo microformat) or an array of objects that provide lat, lng and txt for the popup (txt being optional). googlemaps.jpg Source

4. jQMaps

A Google Maps plugin. This is a sample of jqmaps plugin developed by SeViR. jQMaps.jpg Source

5. jQuery Google & Maps

Another cool Google Maps plugin. jQuery-Google-Maps.jpg Source

6. jQuery Maps Interface

Easily create Google or Yahoo maps. jQuery-Maps-Interface.jpg Source

7. Google Maps jQuery Plugin V1.01 – Shawn Mayzes

Lets you simply embed Google Maps using The Google Maps JavaScript API in your web pages. To use The Google Maps JavaScript API, you need to first sign up for an API key. Once you’ve received an API key, you can develop a map application following the instructions in this documentation. Google-Maps-jQuery-Plugin-V1pt01-Shawn-Mayzes.jpg Source

8. Mapbox: Zoomable jQuery Map Plugin

The jQuery mapbox() plugin is for creating relatively small scale, zoomable, draggable maps with multiple layers of content. This framework could be applied to games, development plans, or any layout that could benefit from being able to zoom in and pan to get a better view. Mapbox-Zoomable-jQuery-Map-Plugin.jpg Source

9. jMapping

This plugin is designed for quick development of a page that implements a Google Map with a list of the locations that are specified within the HTML. jMapping.jpg

10. jMaps Framework

A jQuery plugin that provides a simple but powerful API for Google’s mapping services. jMaps-Framework.jpg Source

11. goMap

$.goMap() is jQuery v1.4 plugin using Google Maps v3. gomap-jquery

12. GMAP3

A jQuery plugin to create google maps with advanced features (overlays, clusters, callbacks, events…) gmap3-jquery Source

Frequently Asked Questions about jQuery Google Map Plugins

What are the key features of jQuery Google Map plugins?

jQuery Google Map plugins are designed to provide a seamless and user-friendly way to integrate Google Maps into your website. Key features include the ability to add multiple markers, customize map styles, and control zoom levels. Some plugins also offer advanced features like clustering, geolocation, and street view. They are lightweight, easy to use, and highly customizable, making them a popular choice for developers.

How do I install a jQuery Google Map plugin?

Installing a jQuery Google Map plugin is a straightforward process. First, you need to download the plugin file and include it in your HTML file. Then, you can initialize the plugin with your desired settings. Most plugins also require you to include the Google Maps API script in your HTML file. Always refer to the plugin’s documentation for specific installation instructions.

Can I customize the appearance of the map using a jQuery Google Map plugin?

Yes, most jQuery Google Map plugins allow you to customize the appearance of the map. You can change the map type (e.g., roadmap, satellite, hybrid, terrain), control the zoom level, and customize the map’s style using JSON. Some plugins also allow you to add custom markers and info windows.

How do I add multiple markers to the map?

Adding multiple markers to the map is a common requirement, and most jQuery Google Map plugins support this feature. You typically need to create an array of marker objects, each with its own latitude, longitude, and optional info window content. Then, you can add this array to the map using the plugin’s addMarkers or similar method.

What is geolocation and how can I use it with a jQuery Google Map plugin?

Geolocation is a feature that allows you to determine the user’s current location. Some jQuery Google Map plugins support geolocation, allowing you to center the map on the user’s location or display nearby points of interest. To use geolocation, you typically need to call the plugin’s getCurrentPosition or similar method.

How do I use clustering with a jQuery Google Map plugin?

Clustering is a feature that groups nearby markers into a single marker to improve map readability. Some jQuery Google Map plugins support clustering, allowing you to easily manage large numbers of markers. To use clustering, you typically need to enable it in the plugin’s settings and provide a cluster image.

Can I use street view with a jQuery Google Map plugin?

Yes, some jQuery Google Map plugins support Google Maps’ street view feature. This allows you to display a panoramic view of a specific location on the map. To use street view, you typically need to call the plugin’s setStreetView or similar method.

Are jQuery Google Map plugins responsive?

Most jQuery Google Map plugins are designed to be responsive, meaning they will automatically adjust their size and layout to fit different screen sizes. This makes them suitable for use on both desktop and mobile websites.

Can I use a jQuery Google Map plugin with WordPress?

Yes, there are several jQuery Google Map plugins that are compatible with WordPress. These plugins typically come with a shortcode that you can use to embed the map in your posts or pages. Some also offer a widget that you can add to your sidebar or footer.

What are the alternatives to jQuery Google Map plugins?

While jQuery Google Map plugins are a popular choice, there are several alternatives available. These include using the Google Maps API directly, using a different JavaScript library like Leaflet, or using a non-jQuery plugin. The best choice depends on your specific needs and level of coding expertise.

Sam DeeringSam Deering
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Sam Deering has 15+ years of programming and website development experience. He was a website consultant at Console, ABC News, Flight Centre, Sapient Nitro, and the QLD Government and runs a tech blog with over 1 million views per month. Currently, Sam is the Founder of Crypto News, Australia.

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