CoinDesk BPI vs Exchange Rates API

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

Uptime · 30d
Uptime · 90d—%—%
Uptime · 30d—%—%
P50 · ms
P95 · ms
Authnonenone
CORSyesno
HTTPSyesyes
Card requirednono
Commercial usenounclear
Data licenseProprietaryUnverified
Free tierWas: unlimitedFree — limits not published
Rate limitUnpublished
In directory since2026-05-022026-07-05
operationalpartialdownno data

CoinDesk BPI vs Exchange Rates API: common questions

Which is more reliable, CoinDesk BPI or Exchange Rates API?

On our scheduled checks, Exchange Rates API leads on measured uptime — CoinDesk BPI at —% versus Exchange Rates 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 CoinDesk BPI and Exchange Rates API need an API key?

Neither needs a paid key — CoinDesk BPI is callable with no signup, and Exchange Rates API is callable with no signup. Both are quick to prototype with; rate limits still apply.

Can I call CoinDesk BPI and Exchange Rates API from the browser?

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

Are CoinDesk BPI and Exchange Rates API free for commercial use?

CoinDesk BPI is personal/non-commercial only, and Exchange Rates 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.