Know the difference

GPS speedometer vs. speed limit app

A speedometer app answers “how fast am I going?” A speed-limit app answers “what is the limit here?” ClearSpeed only does the first.

What a GPS speedometer does

It estimates how fast your device is moving from satellite positioning and shows that number. It needs no map data and works anywhere with a GPS signal — roads, water, trails.

What a speed-limit feature does

It looks up the posted limit for the road you're on from map data, which varies by coverage and can be out of date around construction or new signage. Navigation apps such as Waze and Google Maps show limits where available and can warn when you exceed them; Apple Maps can show the posted limit during driving directions.

Details and sources: Waze, Google Maps, or a speedometer app?

Why ClearSpeed leaves limits out

Limit data requires maps, network access, and ongoing data licensing. ClearSpeed stays offline-capable and private, with no map data at all. If limit warnings matter to you, use a navigation app for that — ClearSpeed isn't the right tool.

Good fit for ClearSpeed

  • You want a large readout of your own speed, in MPH, KM/H, or knots.
  • You want trip totals without an account.
  • You're on water, a bike, or somewhere road-limit data doesn't apply.

Try it on your next trip

ClearSpeed GPS is $3.99 once in the U.S. App Store, with no subscription, in-app purchases, or ads. View ClearSpeed GPS on the App Store.