Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which Google Earth Should I Get?
That’s a good question. Here are your choices, along with the differences between them, so you can decide. The first thing you’ll want to do in any case is to download the 2007 free version, to see how it works. Then you can decide from there if you want or need the enhanced features of the not-free versions.
Google Earth - This is the free version. It has all the features of fly to, searches, printing, saving, emailing, placemarks mentioned above. Support only via website. Limit of 1000 px per printed or saved image.
Google Earth Plus - $20 subscription-based annual fee. Enhanced performance, limit of 1400 px per printed image and 1000 px per saved image. Can be used with GPS device, optional business ad feature, support via website and email.
Google Earth Pro - $400 subscription-based annual fee. For professional use. Fastest performance of all three versions. Limit of 4800 px per printed image and 4800 px per saved image. Can be used with GPS device, optional business ad feature, support via email, website or chat. Modules for data importing, movie making and premium printing. Optional GDT traffic counts data.
Q. Is Google Earth free?
A. Yes, Google Earth is free. There are two additional versions available for purchase, and they are described on the home page.
Q. How do I download Google Earth?
A. Just go to the home page and click on the button to download. Additional instructions for installation and use are available on the “How to” pages linked in the green navigation bar above.
Q. What are the system requirements to download Google Earth?
A. You’ll need Windows XP and your browser needs to be Firefox 1.0 or IE 6.0 or higher.
Q. Can I get Google Earth if I have a Mac?
A. Yes. If you have OS X you can download Google Earth directly from Google.
Q. I can’t read the “How To” manual. What should I do?
A. Watch the “How To” video by clicking on the “How To” video link in the green navigation bar above. Then once you download and install the Google Pack, you’ll have Adobe Reader 7 and will be able to view the How To manual and any other pdfs you want to download.