shipapis
StarSubmit an APISubmit API

BriefTape vs Helium

Same instrument, two spec sheets — measured, not claimed.

APIBriefTapeNEW—HeliumNEW—
Uptime · 30d
Uptime · 90d—%—%
Uptime · 30d—%—%
P50 · ms——
P95 · ms——
AuthapiKeynone
CORSyesno
HTTPSyesyes
Card requirednono
Commercial useunclearunclear
Data licenseUnverifiedUnverified
Free tierFree tier — API key requiredFirst 50 queries per IP free, no key (paid API key beyond, ~$0.02/query)
Rate limit10000 req/window · 9381 remaining · resets 178355520050 free queries per IP subnet
In directory since2026-07-052026-07-05
operationalpartialdownno data

BriefTape vs Helium: common questions

Which is more reliable, BriefTape or Helium?

On our scheduled checks, Helium leads on measured uptime — BriefTape at —% versus Helium at —% over 90 days. These are our own probe results, not provider claims; the uptime bars above show the day-by-day record for both.

Do BriefTape and Helium need an API key?

Helium needs no key, while BriefTape requires a free API key. If you want to start calling without signup, reach for Helium first.

Can I call BriefTape and Helium from the browser?

Only BriefTape is browser-friendly — it returns CORS headers over HTTPS. Helium needs a server-side call or proxy, so factor that into which one fits a front-end project.

Are BriefTape and Helium free for commercial use?

BriefTape has unclear commercial terms, and Helium has unclear commercial terms. We track service terms and the data license as separate fields — see the Commercial use and Data license rows above, and confirm both before shipping either in a paid product.