Comparing four different WebGL globe libraries: CesiumJS (advanced features), Globe.GL (lightweight), MapLibre GL (Leaflet-like), and deck.gl (data visualization). Click on each globe to add markers, and use the settings to explore different rendering approaches. Labels indicate licensing: "Free" means unlimited commercial use, "Free tier" means limited free usage with paid plans available.
CesiumJS - Click to add markers
Globe Settings
About CesiumJS
High-precision 3D globe with advanced features like terrain, lighting, and extensive customization.
Best for complex visualizations and professional applications. Supports dynamic entities, 3D models, and time-based animations.
Try different imagery providers: Most have free tiers but may require API keys for production.
Cesium supports 50+ providers including Mapbox, Stamen, custom tile servers, and more.
Globe.GL - Click to add markers
Globe Settings
About Globe.GL
Lightweight Three.js wrapper perfect for data visualization. Quick setup, smooth performance, and easy customization.
Ideal for games and interactive web applications. Supports points, arcs, polygons, and custom HTML labels.
Try different textures: All textures shown are free. Globe.GL can use any image URL as a texture,
including custom artwork, NASA imagery, or your own designs - unlimited possibilities!
MapLibre GL - Click to add markers
Globe Settings
About MapLibre GL
Open-source fork of Mapbox GL JS with globe projection support. Familiar API for Leaflet users, vector-based rendering,
and smooth zooming. Great for migrating from 2D to 3D maps while keeping similar code structure.
Try different styles: OpenFreeMap styles are free for commercial use. MapTiler offers free tier + paid plans.
MapLibre works with Maptiler, Stadia Maps, self-hosted tiles, and any Mapbox-style JSON provider.
deck.gl - Click to add markers
Layer Settings
About deck.gl
Uber's high-performance WebGL framework for large-scale data visualization. Layer-based architecture optimized for rendering millions of data points with smooth 60fps performance. Perfect for geospatial analytics and big data visualization.
Try different layers: Scatterplot for individual points, Hexagon for spatial aggregation, Arc for showing connections. All layers are GPU-accelerated and designed for massive datasets. Free & open source (MIT license).