Side by side
TalkingMaps vs TimelineJS
Both stand on data storytelling tools. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
TalkingMaps combines map-based storytelling with charts, timelines, collaboration, and moderated contributions. It is free and open source, but requires self-hosting and has documented default storage and upload limits.
Visit TalkingMapsChoose TimelineJS if you want a free, open-source way to present a chronological story with interactive media, using either a spreadsheet or a custom JSON installation. Look elsewhere if your site is on WordPress.com or your workflow requires keeping spreadsheet data private without setting up the JSON and JavaScript route.
Visit TimelineJSThe facts
| TalkingMaps | TimelineJS | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | API, Linux, Mac, Self-hosted, Web, Windows | API, Self-hosted, Web |
| Lowest paid plan | Not published | Free or on request |
| Plans published | None | 1 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | talkingmaps.eu | timeline.knightlab.com |
| On data storytelling tools | #16 of 22 | #12 of 22 |
TalkingMaps: what it does well
- Supports interactive 2D maps and a 3D globe
- Includes 11 slide layouts
- Offers public, private-link, and embedded sharing
- Supports multiple geospatial formats and services
- Free, open source, and self-hosted
What to know first
- Self-hosting with Docker is required
- Default maximum media upload is 50 MB
- Participatory attachments default to 10 MB
- Per-user storage defaults to 1024 MB
TimelineJS: what it does well
- Free to use, including commercially, under MPL 2.0.
- Spreadsheet workflow is aimed at beginners.
- Supports embedding and self-hosting.
- Includes media integrations across social, mapping, audio and video services.
- Users can adjust fonts, navigation position and initial zoom.
What to know first
- Standard spreadsheet workflow requires publishing data to the web.
- Does not work with WordPress.com sites.
- Known not to work with Internet Explorer versions before IE10.
- Knight Lab has no dedicated technical support staff.
Alternatives to TalkingMaps Alternatives to TimelineJS The whole list