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CheapShark API vs Microlink.io

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

APICheapShark APINEW—Microlink.ioNEW—
Uptime · 30d
Uptime · 90d—%—%
Uptime · 30d—%—%
P50 · ms——
P95 · ms——
Authnonenone
CORSnoyes
HTTPSyesyes
Card requirednono
Commercial useunclearunclear
Data licenseUnverifiedN/A — returns metadata extracted from the URL you pass
Free tierFree — limits not publishedFree tier — no key required (Pro plans need a key)
Rate limitUnpublishedFree tier is rate-limited per day (see pricing)
In directory since2026-07-052026-07-05
operationalpartialdownno data

CheapShark API vs Microlink.io: common questions

Which is more reliable, CheapShark API or Microlink.io?

On our scheduled checks, Microlink.io leads on measured uptime — CheapShark API at —% versus Microlink.io 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 CheapShark API and Microlink.io need an API key?

Neither needs a paid key — CheapShark API is callable with no signup, and Microlink.io is callable with no signup. Both are quick to prototype with; rate limits still apply.

Can I call CheapShark API and Microlink.io from the browser?

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

Are CheapShark API and Microlink.io free for commercial use?

CheapShark API has unclear commercial terms, and Microlink.io 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.