The Best Way to Make Image Maps in 2025

Creating image maps clickable areas embedded within images remains a relevant and powerful tool for interactive design. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of the top methods in 2025.

1. Classic HTML Image Maps (Simple & Widely Supported)

Overview:
Using the <map> and <area> tags, you overlay clickable zones directly in HTML.

<img src=”example.jpg” alt=”Example” usemap=”#mapName”>

<map name=”mapName”>

  <area shape=”rect” coords=”34,44,270,350″ href=”page.html” alt=”Description”>

  <area shape=”circle” coords=”337,300,44″ href=”coffee.html” alt=”Coffee”>

  <area shape=”poly” coords=”140,121,181,116,204,160…” href=”croissant.html” alt=”Croissant”>

</map>

• Pros:
  
  • Broad browser compatibility and ease of use 
  • No JavaScript required—purely client-side and fast
    
  • Accessible, given proper alt and title attributes.
    
• Cons:
  
  • Not responsive by default; scaling or resizing images breaks coordinate alignment.
    

2. Responsive HTML Image Maps (Modern Approach)

Enhancements:

• Use CSS to make images flexible (max-width: 100%) and combine with JavaScript (e.g., the jQuery rwdImageMaps plugin) to scale hotspot coordinates dynamically.
  
• Pros:
  
  • Works across devices, including mobile.
    
  • Keeps the simplicity of HTML while adding responsiveness.
    

3. SVG-Based Image Maps (Mobile-First & Scalable)

Overview:
Create interactive SVG overlays on images, where hotspots are vector shapes that remain correctly positioned when scaled.

Steps (e.g., via Inkscape):

1. Import image into Inkscape.
   
2. Draw shapes (rectangles, ellipses, polygons).
   
3. Remove visible fill/stroke but retain clickability.
   
4. Assign each shape a hyperlink and optional tooltip.
   
5. Export as SVG and embed:
   

<object id=”svgMap” data=”map.svg” type=”image/svg+xml” style=”max-width:100%;”></object>

• Pros:
  
  • Fully responsive, scalable, and ideal for mobile.
    
  • Highly flexible for complex designs.
    
• Cons:
  
  • Requires vector editing tools and some setup.
    

4. No-Code Generators & Advanced Tools

Tools like Image Map Pro:
These platforms offer rich UIs—draw hotspots, pins, tooltips, import shapes, export-ready without code.

• Pros:
  
  • Fast, visually intuitive, three-versus technical.
    
  • Highly customizable and feature-rich.
    
• Cons:
  
  • May involve cost or learning new software; not always necessary for simple cases.
    

5. Best Practices for Effective Image Maps

Based on expert recommendations, here’s what to keep in mind:

1. Plan your hotspots: Sketch before creating.
   
2. Use clear visuals: Distinct shapes, borders, or tooltips.
   
3. Ensure mobile usability: Hotspots should be large enough for finger taps.
   
4. Optimize performance: Compress images and clean up code.
   
5. Test and refine: Use analytics or heatmaps to see user interactions.
   
6. Accessibility matters: Provide alt text for the image and each area.
   
7. SEO-friendly: Ensure that links are descriptive.
   

Choosing the Right Strategy

Final Thoughts

In 2025, the best approach depends on your goals:

• For simplicity and compatibility, stick with classic HTML image maps.
  
• If mobile-friendliness is important, add responsive tweaks or use SVG.
  
• Want to save time and effort? Consider a no-code solution.
  

No matter which method you choose—HTML, SVG, or visual editor—make your image maps accessible, responsive, optimized, and user-friendly. Happy mapping!

Gulshan Kumar

Gulshan Kumar is a WordPress and full-stack developer, as well as a fitness freak. He loves coding and enjoys sharing his knowledge with the community. This lad started his journey back in 2018 and since then, he’s been customizing IamVector and writing about what he knows best.