title: Google Maps API v3, lots of markers, clustering and performance
body: <p>I have about 5000 markers I need to render on Google Map. I'm currently using the API (v3) and there are performance issues on slower machines, especially in IE. I have done the following already to help speed things up:</p>
  
  <ol>
  <li>Used a simple marker class that extends OverlayView and renders a single DIV element per marker</li>
  <li>Implemented the MarkerClusterer library to cluster the markers at different levels</li>
  <li>Render GIFs for IE, instead of alpha PNGs</li>
  </ol>
  
  <p>Are there faster clustering classes? Any other tips? I'm trying to avoid server-side clustering unless this is the only option left to squeeze performance out of the system.</p>
  
  <p>Thanks</p>