Alternatives/Google Maps Lists
hotspot vs Google Maps Lists
Google Maps Lists are free. Your time isn't.
Thousands bookmark your Google Maps lists. None of them pay. hotspot is the monetization layer Google never built: same pins, same workflow, now with checkout.
What is Google Maps Lists?
Free, public, and what most creators use today. Perfect for sharing. Impossible to monetize.
Side by side
| Criterion | hotspot | Google Maps Lists |
|---|---|---|
| Cost to create | Free | Free |
| Sell your work | Yes | No |
| Free previews + paid unlock mix | Yes | No |
| Photos, audio, vibe tags on pins | Native | Limited |
| Analytics | Per-map sales + revenue | View count only |
| Creator page | hotspot.earth/you | Your Maps profile |
| Buyer opens directions in 1 tap | Yes | Yes |
Why creators move to hotspot
Paste a Google Maps link, get a monetizable pin
Our editor understands Google Maps URLs and coordinates. Bring your existing list; leave with a paid map.
Free preview + paid spots on the same map
Publish 2–3 spots openly to hook scrollers — lock the other 15 behind a €5 unlock. Google Maps is all-or-nothing.
You still share a link
One URL to put in your bio. Works on iOS, Android, desktop. Unlocks into the native map the buyer already uses.
See who's buying what
Per-map analytics: sales, revenue, buyers over time. Google gives you view counts at best.
Comparing to other options
Ready to migrate?
Bring your audience. Keep 90%. Set up a real paid map in under 5 minutes.
Start for free →