Output formats: GeoPackage, MBTiles, folder

When you’re processing your data with MapTiler Engine, one of the settings you need to specify is the output format. It means the format of the entire tileset, which is the container file containing the map tiles created from your data. This page explains the available formats and helps you choose the best one for your needs.

GeoPackage

GeoPackage is an international open standard, compatible with many viewers and tools. It can contain a mix of formats, such as JPG and PNG tiles, and supports storing metadata. Combining multiple tilesets into one GeoPackage file is also allowed.

MBTiles

MBTiles is an open standard developed by Mapbox. Like GeoPackage, it’s a single file, but has a few limitations: It can only contain tiled data, it doesn’t support mixing formats within one tileset, and it can take just one tileset as input.

Folder with tiles

A folder with tiles contains a structure of subfolders for specific zoom levels. This format is suitable for self-hosting. Compared to single-file formats (GeoPackage, MBTiles) it takes longer to upload a folder to the hosting server, but once it’s there, it provides a faster response time.

Google Earth KML

Additionally, we offer the KML format to generate map tiles compatible with Google Earth.

Recommended use

• For smaller maps, any format will work fine. If unsure, go for GeoPackage.
• For larger maps, use GeoPackage and host your tiles in MapTiler Cloud for fast and stable access.
• If you’re building maps for mobile devices, choose a single-file format (GeoPackage or MBTiles).
• If you plan to use own map hosting, folder with tiles is best for fast access to the map.
• If you need map tiles for Google Earth, choose KML.

Generally, if you don’t have any special requirements such as compatibility with specific software tools, GeoPackage is a safe universal choice.

Format comparison