KML vs. KMZ: The key differences explained and when to use each

KML (Keyhole Markup Language) and KMZ (Keyhole Markup Language Zipped) are file formats used for storing and sharing geospatial data, often encountered in applications like Google Earth and GIS software. KML files are text-based XML documents that are human-readable and suitable for tasks requiring transparency and direct editing, but their uncompressed nature can lead to large file sizes if external assets are involved. KMZ files, on the other hand, are compressed versions of KML files that bundle the main KML document with its associated resources, making them more portable and ideal for sharing complete map packages without the risk of missing assets. While KML is favored for collaborative workflows that require frequent editing, KMZ is preferred for distributing finalized map projects. Both formats serve as inputs in modern GIS workflows rather than final outputs, with their choice mainly affecting pre-upload steps like distribution and archiving. The platform Felt facilitates working with these formats by allowing users to convert them into interactive map layers for real-time collaboration and analysis, thereby streamlining spatial data management.

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