Applicability of methods for estimating GPS precipitable water in the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau

► The Bevis Tm model has a larger bias and RMS error in the QTP than in the plain of Central China. ► The RMS error of the ZHD model is smaller in the QTP than in the plain of Central China. ► The relative RMS error of GPS PW increases with the station altitude. ► The accuracy of GPS PW is mainly affected by the ZHD model, and a good Tm can improve the accuracy of GPS PW in the QTP.