When do you use Google Maps APIs?

[ocaswell]

I have many local clients and I use the Google Embed Map method without the APIs?
If it is Free, when do I need to use the APIs? What map features am I missing if I don't use the APIs?

 

[Rich Owings]

A basic embed is free. Among other things Directions mode, Street View mode, and Search mode are not free. More info here: Maps Embed API Usage and Billing | Google Developers