Attribute

Google Earth

Google Maps

Available at:

http://earth.google.com

http://maps.google.com

Installation

Local installation required

No installation-available online.

Login Required/File Creation

No login required to create files

Login required

Media embed code capable?

Yes, multiple formats: YouTube, Slideshare, Evoca, uStream, Voicethread and others

Yes, YouTube only.

Text, Image, Hyperlinks available?

Yes

Yes

Requires knowledge of HTML

Yes, required to insert imagery and hyperlinks

No, onboard Rich Text editor provides these capabilities

Specialized Applications available in tool

Yes:  Google Sky

Yes, Streetview, Mapplets, and Personal Profile Page

KML and KMZ file creation?

Yes, both are available

Only KML file creation is available

Export to the other?

Yes

Yes

Community Support

Yes

Yes

Educational Lesson files available online

Yes

Yes