Static Maps API: Generate Map Images Without JavaScript

What Are Static Maps?

Static Maps API generates map images as PNG or JPEG files via a simple HTTP request. No JavaScript, no client-side rendering, no map library required. Perfect for server-side use cases.

Basic Usage

https://api.beta.vn/maps/staticmap?
  center=40.714,-74.006
  &zoom=13
  &size=600x400
  &key=YOUR_API_KEY

This returns a 600×400 pixel map image centered on New York City at zoom level 13.

Adding Markers

https://api.beta.vn/maps/staticmap?
  size=600x400
  &markers=color:red|40.714,-74.006
  &markers=color:blue|40.718,-73.998
  &key=YOUR_API_KEY

Common Use Cases

• Email confirmations: Show delivery location or store address in transactional emails. Email clients don't support JavaScript, making static maps the only option.
• PDF reports: Embed location maps in invoices, delivery receipts, or property reports generated server-side.
• Social media cards: Generate Open Graph images with map context for location-based content.
• Print materials: Flyers, business cards, and signage with embedded maps.

Performance Benefits

Static maps load as a single image request versus Dynamic Maps which require loading the entire Maps JavaScript SDK (200KB+). For pages where the map is supplementary content, static maps improve Core Web Vitals significantly.

Pricing

Beta Maps API plans start at $79/month for 100K requests across all endpoints. Compare that to Google's per-request pricing of $2.00/1,000 for static maps alone. See pricing details.