Geographical vs National Geographic

What is the difference?

Ownership

UK based, independently owned. The Official Magazine of The Royal Geographical Society

US based, majority owned by The Walt Disney Company

Target Audience

Geared towards knowledge seekers, armchair adventurers, planet champions, and students who value in-depth analysis and geographical insights

Aimed at families and casual readers, with a focus on visually captivating and entertaining content,

Depth of Coverage

Provides comprehensive, in-depth exploration of geography, sustainability, and geopolitics, with a critical lens on global challenges

Covers topics broadly, often focusing on human-interest stories and visually dramatic features rather than detailed analysis

Editorial Voice

Rigorous yet accessible, combining curiosity and critical insight to deliver trustworthy, thought-provoking content

Storytelling-oriented with a focus on narrative and visual appeal, reflecting its entertainment industry ties

Educational Alignment

Strong focus on supporting the understanding of geography at all levels, from school to university to mature students

Limited focus on academic geography

Why Geographical Stands Out:

Independent Perspective: Independently published, Geographical maintains a rigorous focus on geography and global issues.

Inclusive Appeal: Engages knowledge seekers, armchair adventurers, and planet champions and those studying geography, while fostering a love for critical thinking about the planet.

Professional Prestige: As the official RGS magazine, Geographical represents the gold standard for lovers of geographers, blending thorough analysis with real-world application.

Educational Integrity: Focuses on geography as a discipline, offering engaging articles suitable for students and professionals.

Global Relevance, UK Lens: Provides a balanced UK view on global issues, while National Geographic has a US perspective on the world