Google Business Profile vs Google Maps: what is the difference?

Google Business Profile is the tool

It is the free account where you enter your business name, category, hours, photos, services and description, and where you reply to reviews and see how many people called you. It used to be called Google My Business.

Google Maps is one of the places it appears

Maps is the app customers use for directions and for finding places nearby. Your profile information is what fills the card they see there.

Google Search is the other place

The same profile powers the panel on the right of search results and the box of nearby businesses. One profile, several shop windows. Updating the profile updates all of them at once.

And your website is something separate again

Your profile belongs to Google. Your website belongs to you. The profile is a summary — a few photos, a phone number, a pin. The website is where you explain your services, show your prices and proof, and give people a WhatsApp button.

The two work best together: the profile gets you found, the website convinces the person who found you.

Quick comparison

• Business Profile: free, managed by you, shown inside Google
• Google Maps: the app where customers see your profile and get directions
• Website: yours, unlimited detail, works even when Google changes its rules
• You should have all three; the profile and website take an afternoon between them