Scribble Maps vs StoryMapJS

Scribble Maps is a web-based map-authoring platform for finding, creating, editing, annotating, embedding, and using maps, with Android and iOS support. It imports place-related spreadsheets, lists, and geodata in CSV, GeoJSON, and KML formats. Map tools include markers, lines, circles, donut and drive-time polygons, data filters, heat maps, measurement, and route optimization. Maps can be shared or embedded, and several users can work on one simultaneously. Its Connect Map Picker can integrate into web apps and return map data in formats including GeoJSON, KML, CSV, GPX, DXF, and Shapefile. Encryption uses AES-256 with PBKDF2 and takes place on the user's computer, but encrypted maps lack autosave, server-generated images, and listed-format exports; lost passwords cannot be recovered. The free plan allows one user, five lifetime map saves, and 450×450px images. Paid plans start at $14/mo (annual), and a 7-day trial is listed.

StoryMapJS is a free, open-source web tool for building narratives tied to place. A story is arranged as slides, each representing a segment and carrying a map location that readers can follow. Slides can contain photos, video, sound, tweets, and other embedded media. Authors search for locations by name and adjust the position by dragging a map pin. Stories may use ordinary cartographic maps or large images, including gigapixel maps. Basemap choices include OpenStreetMap Standard and Cooper Hewitt Watercolor, with Mapbox maps also supported. OpenStreetMap Standard is listed as a no-cost option; Mapbox and Stadia basemaps may have usage-based fees. The publishing tool supplies HTML for embedding a finished StoryMap on another website. The authoring tool asks permission to store files in the user’s Google Drive. StoryMapJS runs on the web, supports custom data import and built-in location data, and offers interactive output, web embedding, HTML export, and brand customization. Knight Lab describes it for journalists and storytellers whose work depends on place.