Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Maps Generator is a free, easy-to-use tool that helps you create embedded Google Maps and downloadable map images for your website, marketing materials, and social media. No coding knowledge or API key required for basic use.

No API key is required for basic embedding and light usage. However, for high-volume image exports or production websites with heavy traffic, Google recommends obtaining a free API key. The tool works perfectly without one for most small business needs.

Yes! Maps Generator is completely free to use. There are no hidden fees, subscriptions, or upgrade requirements. We use Google's free embed API which has generous usage limits suitable for most users.

Follow these simple steps:

1. Enter your complete address in the "Enter Address" field
2. Adjust width, height, zoom level, and map type to your preferences
3. Click "Generate Map" to preview your map
4. Click the "Copy" button in the Embed Code section
5. Paste the code into your website's HTML where you want the map to appear

For best results, include the complete address:

• Street number and name
• City or town
• State or province
• ZIP or postal code
• Country (if outside the US)

Example: "1600 Amphitheatre Parkway, Mountain View, CA 94043"

Yes! The embedded maps are fully responsive and work perfectly on smartphones and tablets. Mobile users can tap the map to get directions, zoom, and interact just like on desktop.

Absolutely! Our embed code works with all major website platforms:

• WordPress: Use the "Custom HTML" block
• Wix: Add an "Embed Code" element
• Squarespace: Use a "Code Block"
• Shopify: Edit HTML in pages or use an app

Most platforms have a "HTML" or "Embed" option where you can paste the code.

Switch to the "Export as Image" tab, enter your address, adjust the settings, and click either "Download PNG" or "Download JPG". The image will download immediately to your computer.

Use PNG when you need:

• Higher quality for web graphics
• Crisp text and lines
• Transparent backgrounds (future feature)

Use JPG when you need:

• Smaller file sizes for email
• Print materials
• Faster loading times

Recommended image sizes for popular platforms:

• Facebook/LinkedIn: 1200x630px
• Instagram (square): 1080x1080px
• Instagram (portrait): 1080x1350px
• Twitter: 1200x675px
• Email newsletters: 600x450px

Yes! For best print quality, export at the largest size possible (1200px width) and use PNG format. For professional printing at 300 DPI, you may want to increase the dimensions even further before exporting.

• Roadmap: Standard map view showing streets, labels, and points of interest. Best for urban areas and finding directions.
• Satellite: Aerial photography view. Great for showing property boundaries, scenic locations, or geographical features.
• Hybrid: Satellite imagery with road labels overlaid. Combines the best of both views.
• Terrain: Shows elevation, mountains, and physical landscape features. Ideal for outdoor locations and hiking areas.

Recommended zoom levels by use case:

• 1-5: World/continent view (rarely used)
• 6-10: State or large region view
• 11-13: City or neighborhood view (good default)
• 14-16: Street-level view (best for businesses)
• 17-20: Building/property level (very close)

For most business locations, zoom level 13-15 works best.

Common sizes that work well:

• 600x450px: Good for blog posts and smaller sections
• 800x600px: Full-width content areas
• 100% width x 400px height: Responsive full-width (requires CSS adjustment)

Match your website's content width for the best appearance.

Try these solutions:

1. Make sure your address is spelled correctly
2. Include more detail (street number, full city name, ZIP code)
3. Try entering the address differently (e.g., spell out "Street" instead of "St.")
4. For new addresses, use GPS coordinates instead
5. Search for the location on Google Maps first to verify the correct address format

Common fixes:

• Ensure you copied the ENTIRE embed code (including <iframe> tags)
• Check that you pasted it in an HTML/Code block, not a text block
• Clear your browser cache and refresh the page
• Make sure your website platform allows iframes (most do)
• Try viewing your site in an incognito/private browser window

Adjust the width and height sliders before generating your map, then copy the new embed code. You can also edit the width and height values directly in the embed code after copying it.

Currently, our tool is optimized for single-location maps. Google's free embed API has limitations with multiple markers. For multiple locations, we recommend creating separate maps or using Google's My Maps feature with an API key.

Google Maps iframes are designed to load efficiently. They use lazy loading by default (loads only when visible) and are hosted on Google's fast servers. The impact on page speed is minimal and similar to embedding a YouTube video.

Our tool itself doesn't collect personal data. However, embedded Google Maps may use cookies for functionality. If you're in the EU, you may need to include maps in your cookie consent notice. Check your local privacy regulations.

The free embed API provides standard Google Maps styling (Roadmap, Satellite, Hybrid, Terrain). Advanced styling requires using the Google Maps JavaScript API with custom code and an API key.

Yes! Since the embedded map loads directly from Google Maps, any updates to road data, business information, or imagery are reflected automatically. You don't need to regenerate or re-embed your map.

Yes! The tool is free for both personal and commercial use. The maps you create follow Google Maps' standard Terms of Service, which allow commercial use for most business purposes (storefronts, contact pages, listings, etc.).