GPX
GPX GPS Exchange Format
GPX is an XML-based lightweight file format designed for storing and transferring GPS data such as waypoints, tracks, and routes between applications and devices.
What is GPX GPS Exchange Format?
Created as a common GPS data format, GPX (GPS Exchange Format) allows users to share geographic data without depending on specific proprietary software or hardware. Because it is based on XML, the data is stored in a structured plaintext format, making it readable and editable by humans and parsers alike. It is widely used in hiking, cycling, and navigation to record and analyze geographical paths.
Advantages
- Open standard with no licensing restrictions
- Human-readable XML structure
- Universally supported by GPS devices and mapping apps
- Stores comprehensive elevation and time metadata
Limitations
- Files can become very large for long tracks
- Lacks advanced styling and multi-layer attributes compared to SHP
- Strict XML structure means a single syntax error can break the file
How to open GPX GPS Exchange Format files
Google Earth
Garmin BaseCamp
QGIS
Marble
ConvertX
Common use cases
- Recording hiking and cycling routes
- Transferring waypoints between different GPS units
- Analyzing fitness activities and speed profiles
- Converting tracks for use in GIS software like GeoJSON or KML
Explore other formats
Frequently asked questions
GPX stands for GPS Exchange Format, an XML schema designed for GPS data sharing.
Yes, since GPX is XML-based, you can import it into Excel or text editors, though specialized GIS or mapping software is better suited.
You can use ConvertX tools like gpx-to-geojson, gpx-to-kml, or gpx-to-shp to quickly convert your GPS files.