Web Mercator (EPSG:3857)
A common projected CRS used by web maps; it distorts area and shape but is fast and convenient for tiles.
Category: CRS & Coordinates
Definition (expanded)
EPSG:3857 is used by most web basemaps. It is not equal-area and distorts high latitudes. It is great for visualization but can be misleading for measurement unless handled carefully.
Related terms
XYZ tilesA web mapping tiling scheme where map images are requested as /{z}/{x}/{y}.png (or similar).Vector tilesA tiling format that delivers vector features per tile instead of raster images.CRS (Coordinate Reference System)A definition of how coordinates map to real locations on Earth, including projection, datum, and units.ProjectionA mathematical method for mapping the curved Earth to a flat plane, which affects distance, area, and shape.