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API KEY for Google Maps

By Stiofan

Communication & Messaging / SMTP & Email Delivery Services

Reviewed by Abdul Hameid

Trusted WordPress expert with 20+ years of experience evaluating plugins for the WP ecosystem.

API KEY for Google Maps Review - In-Depth Analysis

Easily add a Google Maps API key to your WordPress theme or plugin. This plugin retroactively applies the key where needed.

Performance Overview

WPS Score

7.02/10

User Rating

4.9/5 (based on 55+ reviews)

Active Installations

40,000+

Update Frequency

Below Average It is calculated using the weighted average of same category plugins.

Security Score

5 / 10 (Medium Risk) It is calculated using the weighted average of all versions.

What It Does

This plugin allows you to retroactively add a Google Maps API key to any theme or plugin in WordPress.

Simply activate the plugin, navigate to Settings > Google API KEY, and enter your key. The plugin will automatically attempt to add this key to all necessary locations on the front end of your website.

Since January 2023, the Google Maps JavaScript API requires a callback parameter. This plugin also resolves the JavaScript error regarding loading the Google Maps JavaScript API without a callback.

The plugin was developed by the GeoDirectory team.

Comparing to Alternatives

API KEY for Google Maps stands alone in its category with no close direct alternatives available, making it a unique choice for users needing this specific functionality.

Top alternatives

Strengths

Extremely high user satisfaction with a 4.9 rating.
Simple and functional plugin design.
Quick and easy to set up according to user feedback.
Effectively resolves API key generation issues in problematic themes.
No need for a pro version, fully functional as a free plugin.

Weaknesses

Has a known medium severity security vulnerability fixed in version 1.2.2.
Limited support or troubleshooting guidance for users facing issues.
No direct alternatives to compare feature sets with.
Some users report the plugin not working as expected without clear help.

User Sentiment Analysis

With 98.2% of ratings at 5 stars and only 1.8% at 1 star, user sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, highlighting ease of use and effectiveness.

Positive highlights

'It works. Nice! Had to create a new project and enable billing before the map showed.' — Webprom Design
'Great Plugin!' — sanyo8
'Super easy and quick!' — marinaw
'Finally resolved my API key issue without problems.' — hericj
'Simple and functional.' — David William da Costa

Common complaints

Plugin did not work as expected and provided no help to fix issues.

Weaknesses

Known CSRF vulnerability fixed in version 1.2.2.
Lack of troubleshooting support for users encountering problems.
Some users experience the plugin not detecting API keys or calls properly.

Who Should Use This?

Best for

Users looking for a straightforward, free plugin to manage Google Maps API keys, especially those who want a simple solution without needing advanced features or a pro version.

Not ideal for

Users who require extensive support or troubleshooting assistance, or those concerned about past security vulnerabilities might find this plugin less suitable.

Pricing & Value

Free version includes

The free version includes all necessary features to generate and manage Google Maps API keys effectively without restrictions.

Final Verdict

API KEY for Google Maps is a highly rated, simple plugin that effectively addresses the need for managing Google Maps API keys with minimal fuss. Its free version offers full functionality, making it an excellent choice for users seeking an easy-to-use solution without additional costs.

However, users should be aware of a past security vulnerability that has been fixed and the limited support available for troubleshooting. Despite these concerns, the overwhelmingly positive user feedback and lack of direct alternatives make it a strong option in its niche.