# Simple Map Distance vs VesselFlow

The clearest difference is price: VesselFlow at Free against Simple Map Distance's $0.99. Simple Map Distance's advantage is in-app purchases (none vs 3) and update cadence (every 4 days vs every 2 weeks). On review sentiment, ads, device support and iOS requirement there is nothing between them.

VesselFlow is free to download; Simple Map Distance costs $0.99 up front. VesselFlow sells 3 in-app purchases, starting at $3.99 per 7 days. Simple Map Distance asks for nothing beyond the download.

Simple Map Distance ships an update every 4 days, VesselFlow every 2 weeks. The most recent releases landed on September 7, 2026 and September 15, 2026 respectively.

## The numbers

| Metric | Simple Map Distance | VesselFlow |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Price | $0.99 | **Free** |
| Rating | — | **[4.1 (9 ratings)](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/vesselflow-live-ship-tracker/id6779067504/reviews)** |
| Number of ratings | — | **9** |
| Positive reviews | 100.0% of reviews | 100.0% of reviews |
| In-app purchases | **No** | Yes |
| Ads | No | No |
| Update frequency | **Every 4 days** | Every 2 weeks |
| Monetization | Paid | **Free with in-app purchases** |
| Size | 1 MB | 37 MB |
| Requires iOS | **17.6** | 18.0 |
| Devices | iPhone, iPad | iPhone, iPad |
| Age rating | 4+ | 4+ |
| Developer | [Michal Malek](https://appshunter.io/developer/1455230755) | [Stephen Fung](https://appshunter.io/developer/1505257864) |

## What reviewers say

### Simple Map Distance

[App page](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/simple-map-distance/id6739575226)

Measure distances on a map by tapping two points. Ideal for planning routes, exploring geography, or tracking exercise paths. Offers precise measurements without unnecessary features.

**Highlights:** Tap two points to measure distance, Connect multiple points for route planning, Precise geographical measurements, Minimalist interface, Ideal for runners and geography enthusiasts

**In-app purchases:** none


### VesselFlow

[App page](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/vesselflow-live-ship-tracker/id6779067504)

Explore a live map of global marine traffic in real-time. Track cargo ships, ferries, yachts, and more, viewing their current position, speed, and destination. Enhance your experience with detailed vessel specifications and voyage information through an optional subscription.

**Highlights:** Real-time ship positions, Global marine traffic map, Detailed vessel information, Search by name, MMSI, or IMO, Personal watchlist, Full vessel specifications (Pro), Live voyage details (Pro)

**Features:** macOS Compatibility, Family Sharing, Vision Pro support

**In-app purchases (3)**

| Purchase | Price | Billing |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Weekly | $3.99 | per 7 days |
| Monthly | $9.99 | per month |
| Yearly | $39.99 | per year |


## Frequently asked questions

### Is Simple Map Distance free?

Simple Map Distance costs $0.99, with no in-app purchases.

### Is VesselFlow free?

VesselFlow is free to download, with in-app purchases available.

### Do Simple Map Distance or VesselFlow have ads?

Neither Simple Map Distance nor VesselFlow shows ads.

### Which is updated more often, Simple Map Distance or VesselFlow?

Simple Map Distance ships an update every 4 days, and VesselFlow every 2 weeks. Most recently, Simple Map Distance was updated on September 7, 2026 and VesselFlow on September 15, 2026.

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*Compared by [AppsHunter](https://appshunter.io/) from daily US App Store data. Review summaries are generated from verbatim App Store reviews.*