GPX vs KML vs FIT — GPS File Formats Compared
July 13, 2026
If you work with GPS data at all — whether for mapping, outdoor navigation, or fitness tracking — you've probably run into three main formats: GPX, KML, and FIT. Each one was built for a completely different job. GPX is for GPS devices, KML for Google Earth, and FIT for Garmin fitness watches. Here's a breakdown of each format so you can pick the right one and convert between 'em when you need to.
Frequently Asked Questions
GPX (GPS Exchange Format) is an open XML-based standard for storing GPS data including waypoints, tracks, and routes. It was developed by Topografix and is the most widely supported format for exchanging GPS data between devices and applications. GPX files store latitude, longitude, elevation, and timestamp data for each point. Most GPS devices, including Garmin handheld units, support GPX natively. It's also supported by Strava, AllTrails, OpenStreetMap, and most mapping software.
KML (Keyhole Markup Language) is an XML-based format developed by Google for use with Google Earth and Google Maps. Unlike GPX which is purely a GPS data format, KML is a geographic visualization format that supports rich styling, 3D models, overlays, icons, and balloon descriptions. KML files can display colored trails, marked waypoints with custom icons, and even embedded HTML content. It's the best format for creating rich, visually annotated maps for sharing and presentation purposes.
FIT (Flexible and Interoperable Data Transfer) is a binary data format developed by Garmin for fitness and health devices. Unlike GPX and KML which are text-based XML formats, FIT uses a compact binary structure that stores data efficiently. A FIT file can contain GPS coordinates, heart rate, cadence, power, temperature, elevation, and lap information all in a single file. FIT files are significantly smaller than equivalent GPX or KML files, making them ideal for Garmin watches, cycling computers, and fitness trackers.
Yes, you can open GPX files in Google Maps using My Maps (Google's custom map creation tool). Upload your GPX file to Google My Maps, and it'll display your tracks, waypoints, and routes on a Google Maps interface. For direct KML/KMZ support, Google Earth is the better choice. Alternatively, you can convert GPX to KML using tools like ConvertPivot's GPX to KML converter for the best Google Earth visualization experience.
Garmin devices primarily use two formats: FIT for fitness and activity data (from watches like the Forerunner, Fenix, and Vivo series), and GPX for GPS navigation data (from handheld devices like the GPSMAP and Oregon series). Garmin also supports TCX (Training Center XML) for historical compatibility. Modern Garmin watches record activities natively in FIT format, while GPS coordinates and routes for navigation are typically stored in GPX format.