Format comparison
GeoPackage vs CSV: GIS Database vs Tabular Data
GeoPackage is a full-featured SQLite database supporting any vector or raster geometry with multiple layers and arbitrary projections. CSV is plain tabular data that can represent point coordinates but nothing else. The right choice depends entirely on your data type and workflow.
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Bottom line
Use GeoPackage for any geospatial data beyond simple points. Use CSV for point datasets shared with non-GIS tools.
GeoPackage vs CSV: feature comparison
| Feature | GeoPackage | CSV |
|---|---|---|
| Geometry support | All types + raster | Points only (lat/lon) |
| Multiple layers | Yes | No |
| CRS metadata | Yes | No |
| Opens in Excel | No | Yes |
| GIS analysis ready | Yes | Requires import |
| Spatial indexing | Yes | No |
GeoPackageWhen to use GeoPackage
- Multi-layer GIS projects
- Large datasets requiring spatial indexing
- Data requiring projection metadata
CSVWhen to use CSV
- Point data for Excel, databases, or analytics
- Sharing with non-GIS stakeholders
- Simple data exchange without geometry complexity
Convert between GeoPackage and CSV
Frequently asked questions
Q.Can I convert GeoPackage to CSV?
Yes. Maparz converts GeoPackage to CSV — point features export with lat/lon columns and other geometry types export as WKT.
Q.Can CSV hold multiple layers like GeoPackage?
No — each CSV file is a single flat table. For multi-layer data you need multiple CSV files or a database format like GeoPackage.