High-resolution background imagery is essential for creating professional maps. While QGIS comes with OpenStreetMap by default, most users prefer Google Earth Satellite imagery for its detail and clarity.

Here is the quickest way to add it using XYZ Tiles (no plugins required).

1. The Magic URLs

To stream Google Maps data directly into QGIS, you need these connection links. Copy the one you need:

Google Satellite (Imagery only):

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https://mt1.google.com/vt/lyrs=s&x={x}&y={y}&z={z}

Google Hybrid (Imagery + Roads/Labels):

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https://mt1.google.com/vt/lyrs=y&x={x}&y={y}&z={z}

Google Roads (Standard Map):

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https://mt1.google.com/vt/lyrs=m&x={x}&y={y}&z={z}

2. Step-by-Step Guide

1. Open Browser Panel: In QGIS, look at the “Browser” panel on the left (if missing, go to View > Panels > Browser).
2. New Connection: Scroll down to find XYZ Tiles. Right-click it and select New Connection.
3. Enter Details:
   • Name: Give it a name (e.g., “Google Satellite”).
   • URL: Paste the URL from the list above.
   • Max Zoom Level: Set this to 19 or 20 for high-resolution zooming.
   • Click OK.
4. Add to Map: Double-click your new “Google Satellite” layer in the list to add it to your canvas.

3. Pro Tip: The “QuickMapServices” Plugin

If you don’t want to copy-paste URLs, you can install a plugin to do it for you:

1. Go to Plugins > Manage and Install Plugins.
2. Search for and install QuickMapServices.
3. Go to Web > QuickMapServices > Settings > More Services and click “Get contributed pack”.
4. You will now have access to Google, Bing, Esri, and 50+ other basemaps instantly.