Skip to content

Map Maker vs Microsoft Gadgets

Professional comparison and analysis to help you choose the right software solution for your needs.

Map Maker icon
Map Maker
Microsoft Gadgets icon
Microsoft Gadgets

Map Maker vs Microsoft Gadgets: The Verdict

⚡ Summary:

Map Maker: Map Maker is a free, easy-to-use web-based tool for creating custom Google Maps. It allows users to add markers, lines, shapes, and customize maps to suit their needs. Good for basic map making and annotating without geographic information system (GIS) expertise.

Microsoft Gadgets: Microsoft Gadgets were mini-applications and feeds that could be placed on the Windows Vista and Windows 7 desktop. They provided information at a glance, like news feeds, clocks, and slideshows.

Both tools serve their respective audiences. Compare the features, pricing, and user ratings above to determine which best fits your needs.

Last updated: May 2026 · Comparison by Sugggest Editorial Team

Feature Map Maker Microsoft Gadgets
Sugggest Score — —
Category Online Services Os & Utilities

Product Overview

Map Maker
Map Maker

Description: Map Maker is a free, easy-to-use web-based tool for creating custom Google Maps. It allows users to add markers, lines, shapes, and customize maps to suit their needs. Good for basic map making and annotating without geographic information system (GIS) expertise.

Type: software

Microsoft Gadgets
Microsoft Gadgets

Description: Microsoft Gadgets were mini-applications and feeds that could be placed on the Windows Vista and Windows 7 desktop. They provided information at a glance, like news feeds, clocks, and slideshows.

Type: software

Key Features Comparison

Map Maker
Map Maker Features
  • Add custom markers, lines, shapes
  • Import spreadsheets and Fusion Tables
  • Customize map styles and themes
  • Share and collaborate on maps
  • Geocode addresses
  • Print maps
  • Export to Google Earth
  • Mobile-friendly maps
Microsoft Gadgets
Microsoft Gadgets Features
  • Mini-applications that run on Windows desktop
  • Displayed information like news, weather, clocks, calendars
  • Customizable widgets for personal use
  • RSS/Atom feed support
  • Sidebar for organizing gadgets
  • Scripting support

Pros & Cons Analysis

Map Maker
Map Maker

Pros

  • Free and easy to use
  • Intuitive drag-and-drop interface
  • Real-time collaboration
  • Integrates with other Google services
  • No GIS expertise required

Cons

  • Limited customization and styling options
  • No advanced GIS capabilities
  • Data storage limits
  • Requires Google account
  • Lacks some features of paid alternatives
Microsoft Gadgets
Microsoft Gadgets

Pros

  • Convenient at-a-glance information
  • Highly customizable and personalizable
  • Added functionality to the desktop
  • Easy to install and use

Cons

  • Security vulnerabilities
  • Performance impact on some systems
  • Limited selection of gadgets
  • Discontinued in Windows 8

Related Comparisons

Learn More About Each Product

Map Maker
Map Maker
Reviews, pricing & alternatives →
Microsoft Gadgets
Microsoft Gadgets
Reviews, pricing & alternatives →

Ready to Make Your Decision?

Explore more software comparisons and find the perfect solution for your needs

Map Maker Alternatives
Microsoft Gadgets Alternatives
Browse More Software