GIS File Formats Explained: Shapefile, GeoJSON, KML, and More
Understand common GIS file formats including Shapefile, GeoJSON, KML, and GPX. Learn when to use each format and how to convert between them.
What Are GIS File Formats?
Geographic Information Systems (GIS) use specialized file formats to store spatial data — points, lines, polygons, and their associated attributes. Choosing the right format depends on your software, data complexity, and intended use.
Common GIS Formats
Shapefile (.shp)
The most widely used GIS format, developed by Esri in the 1990s. Despite its age, it remains the industry standard for sharing vector data.
- Stores points, lines, and polygons with attributes
- Actually consists of multiple files (.shp, .shx, .dbf, .prj)
- Supported by virtually all GIS software
- Limited to 2 GB file size and 10-character field names
GeoJSON (.geojson)
A lightweight, JSON-based format for encoding geographic data. Increasingly popular for web mapping and APIs.
- Human-readable and easy to parse in JavaScript
- Stores points, lines, polygons, and multi-geometries
- Includes properties/attributes as JSON key-value pairs
- Widely supported by Leaflet, Mapbox, and web mapping tools
KML (.kml)
Keyhole Markup Language, originally developed for Google Earth. Uses XML to describe geographic features and map styling.
- Supports points, lines, polygons, and 3D models
- Includes styling, annotations, and view specifications
- Best for visualization in Google Earth and similar viewers
- Can be compressed to KMZ (zipped KML)
GPX (.gpx)
GPS Exchange Format — XML-based format specifically for storing GPS waypoints, tracks, and routes.
- Standard format for GPS devices and fitness apps
- Stores elevation, time, and heart rate data
- Widely supported by Garmin, Strava, and mapping tools
Format Comparison
| Format | Geometry Types | Best For | Limitations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shapefile | Point, Line, Polygon | Desktop GIS analysis | 2GB limit, multi-file |
| GeoJSON | All geometries | Web mapping, APIs | No styling data |
| KML | Point, Line, Polygon, 3D | Google Earth visualization | XML verbosity |
| GPX | Points, Tracks, Routes | GPS data exchange | No polygon support |
When to Use Each Format
- Shapefile: When sharing data with desktop GIS users (ArcGIS, QGIS)
- GeoJSON: When building web maps or working with JavaScript APIs
- KML: When visualizing data in Google Earth or similar platforms
- GPX: When working with GPS tracks, routes, and waypoints
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