Basemaps

Choose from multiple basemap styles to provide the right context for your data. MapEdit supports both MapLibre (vector) and Apple Maps basemaps.

1. Click the layers/basemap icon in the bottom-right map controls
2. Browse the available basemap options
3. Click a basemap to apply it

Vector basemaps powered by MapLibre GL:

• Streets — Detailed street map with labels and POIs (default)
• Light — Minimal light-colored basemap for data overlays
• Dark — Minimal dark-colored basemap for night use or bright data
• Satellite — Aerial/satellite imagery
• Terrain — Topographic outdoor map with elevation shading

High-quality maps from Apple:

• Apple Standard — Default Apple Maps style
• Apple Satellite — Satellite imagery
• Apple Hybrid — Satellite with labels

Consider these factors when selecting a basemap:

• Data visibility — Light basemaps work well with dark-colored data
• Context needed — Satellite for terrain, street for navigation
• Export purpose — Clean basemaps for presentations
• User preference — Dark mode for night work

MapEdit automatically switches between map engines based on your basemap selection:

• MapLibre — Used for most basemaps (vector tiles)
• Apple MapKit — Used for Apple Maps basemaps
• Your features work identically on both engines

Consider basemap colors when styling your features:

• Use contrasting colors for visibility
• Light features on dark basemaps (and vice versa)
• Add strokes to polygons for definition
• Increase marker sizes on busy basemaps