COG (Cloud Optimized GeoTIFF) is an enhanced GeoTIFF optimized for cloud storage and streaming. Standard GeoTIFF is better for local workflows.
| Criteria | GeoTIFF | Cloud-Optimized GeoTIFF |
|---|---|---|
| Cloud-native | ✗ | ✓ |
| Partial reads | ✗ | ✓ |
| GIS support | ✓ | ✓ |
| Simplicity | ✓ | ✗ |
| HTTP Range requests | ✗ | ✓ |
For local work in QGIS/ArcGIS, analysis on your computer.
For cloud platforms, web applications, large datasets on S3.