Convert KMZ to KML Online — Free & Instant
KMZ files are ZIP-compressed KML archives. Converting KMZ to KML gives you a plain, human-readable XML file that you can open in any text editor, import into GIS tools, or share without compression. This is useful when you need to inspect or edit the raw KML markup, or when a tool requires uncompressed KML as input.
File converter
When to convert KMZ to KML
- Extracting and reading the KML markup inside a KMZ archive
- Editing KML XML in a text editor after decompressing from KMZ
- Providing plain KML to tools that do not accept KMZ files
- Inspecting KML folder structure and placemark data from a KMZ export
How to convert KMZ to KML
- 1
Upload your KMZ
Drop your .kmz file on the upload zone.
- 2
Select KML
Click KML in the format selector.
- 3
Download the KML
The .kml file is plain XML — open it in a text editor or any KML-compatible application.
About KMZ
KMZ is a ZIP-compressed version of a KML file. It typically contains a doc.kml file at its root along with any referenced images, icons, or overlays. KMZ files are smaller than their KML counterparts, making them easier to share by email or embed on web pages. They are supported by Google Earth, QGIS, ArcGIS, and many online mapping tools. KMZ files can be uploaded directly to Google My Maps.
Strengths
- +Smaller than raw KML
- +Can bundle images and overlays
- +Widely accepted by mapping tools
About KML
Keyhole Markup Language (KML) is an XML-based format developed for Google Earth and now maintained by the OGC. It is widely used in Google Maps, Google Earth, and many consumer-facing mapping applications. KML supports styled geometry, network links, folders, and time-based animations. It always uses geographic coordinates (WGS 84) and is stored as plain XML text. KMZ is simply a ZIP-compressed KML file, which can also include embedded images and other resources.
Strengths
- +Native in Google Earth and Google Maps
- +Supports rich styling and labels
- +Human-readable XML
Frequently asked questions
Q.What is the difference between KML and KMZ?
KML is a plain XML text file. KMZ is a ZIP archive containing a doc.kml file and optionally embedded images and icons. The geometry and data are identical — KMZ is simply a compressed version.
Q.Will embedded images from the KMZ be included in the KML?
No. Embedded images referenced in the KMZ are not included in the KML output. The geometry and attribute data are fully preserved.
Q.Can I open the output KML in Google Earth?
Yes. The resulting KML file opens directly in Google Earth Desktop, Google Earth Web, and Google My Maps.