GPS coordinates can help you find exact spots that do not have an address. You might need to visit a hiking trail, check a drone flight path, or find a property corner. Google Maps lets you enter coordinates on both mobile and desktop to view these precise locations.
This guide shows you how to enter coordinates in Google Maps, which formats work, and how to avoid common mistakes.
How to enter coordinates on Google Maps mobile app
You can enter coordinates using the Google Maps app on Android or iPhone. Follow these simple steps:
- Open the Google Maps app on your phone.
- Tap the search bar at the top.
- Type the coordinates (latitude first, then longitude) using a supported format.
- Tap the Search button.
- A pin will appear on the map at that exact spot.
- Tap the pin for more details or directions.
If you copy coordinates from another app or site, remove any extra spaces or symbols first for the best results.
How to enter coordinates on Google Maps desktop
On a computer, it is just as easy to enter coordinates:
- Go to Google Maps in your web browser.
- Click the search bar at the top-left.
- Type or paste your coordinates.
- Press Enter on your keyboard.
- The map will zoom to the exact location.
- A marker will appear. You can click it to see more info or directions.
You can also right-click on any map point and select “What's here?” to view the coordinates of that spot.
Coordinate formats supported by Google Maps
Google Maps accepts several coordinate formats. Here are examples that work:
- Decimal Degrees (DD): 37.421998, -122.084000
- Degrees Minutes Seconds (DMS): 37°25'19.2″N 122°05'02.4″W
- Degrees Decimal Minutes (DMM): 37 25.32000, -122 05.04000
When entering coordinates:
- Use a period (not a comma) for decimal points.
- Place latitude first, then longitude.
- Separate the two with a comma.
Avoid mixing formats or adding extra words or symbols.
Common mistakes and how to fix them
Here are common reasons why coordinates may not work:
- Using commas instead of periods in decimal points
- Adding extra spaces or symbols
- Reversing latitude and longitude
- Mixing coordinate formats in one entry
If your location does not appear, check the format carefully.
How to copy and share coordinates in Google Maps
Google Maps makes it easy to copy and share coordinates.
On mobile:
- Tap and hold a spot on the map until a red pin appears.
- Swipe up the info panel.
- Tap and copy the coordinates.
- Paste them into a message or app.
On desktop:
- Right-click on a map point.
- Click “What's here?”
- The coordinates will show at the bottom.
- Click and copy them.
- Paste them where needed or share the link.
Getting coordinates from your device
You can also find coordinates from other devices:
- On phones, apps like GPS Status or even Google Maps can show your current coordinates.
- On GPS devices or drones, check your flight log or device settings to export coordinates.
- Many fitness trackers with GPS can also show coordinates for your activities.
Once you have the coordinates, enter them into Google Maps as shown above.
Using Google Maps offline with coordinates
You can enter coordinates while offline if you download the map area first. Here’s how:
- Open Google Maps while online.
- Select the map area you want.
- Tap Download (under Offline Maps).
- When offline, type your coordinates into the search bar.
- Google Maps will show the location (some features like directions may be limited offline).
Conclusion
Using coordinates in Google Maps helps you find exact spots anywhere in the world. Whether you use a phone or a computer, just type them in the correct format and Google Maps will show the location.
Next time you need to visit a remote spot or share a precise place, try using GPS coordinates. If this guide helped you, feel free to share it or leave a comment below.
