shipapis
StarSubmit an APISubmit API

CheapShark API vs Open VSX Registry API

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

APICheapShark APINEW—Open VSX Registry APINEW—
Uptime · 30d
Uptime · 90d—%—%
Uptime · 30d—%—%
P50 · ms——
P95 · ms——
Authnonenone
CORSnoyes
HTTPSyesyes
Card requirednono
Commercial useunclearunclear
Data licenseUnverifiedUnverified
Free tierFree — limits not publishedFree — limits not published
Rate limitUnpublished10800 req/window · 10799 remaining
In directory since2026-07-052026-07-05
operationalpartialdownno data

CheapShark API vs Open VSX Registry API: common questions

Which is more reliable, CheapShark API or Open VSX Registry API?

On our scheduled checks, Open VSX Registry API leads on measured uptime — CheapShark API at —% versus Open VSX Registry API 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 Open VSX Registry API need an API key?

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

Can I call CheapShark API and Open VSX Registry API from the browser?

Only Open VSX Registry API 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 Open VSX Registry API free for commercial use?

CheapShark API has unclear commercial terms, and Open VSX Registry API 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.