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Datasette vs Mediastack

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

APIDatasetteNEW—MediastackNEW—
Uptime · 30d
Uptime · 90d—%—%
Uptime · 30d—%—%
P50 · ms——
P95 · ms——
AuthnoneapiKey
CORSyesno
HTTPSyesyes
Card requirednono
Commercial useunclearunclear
Data licenseUnverifiedUnverified
Free tierFree — limits not publishedFree tier — key may be required
Rate limitUnpublishedUnpublished
In directory since2026-07-052026-07-05
operationalpartialdownno data

Datasette vs Mediastack: common questions

Which is more reliable, Datasette or Mediastack?

On our scheduled checks, Mediastack leads on measured uptime — Datasette at —% versus Mediastack 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 Datasette and Mediastack need an API key?

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

Can I call Datasette and Mediastack from the browser?

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

Are Datasette and Mediastack free for commercial use?

Datasette has unclear commercial terms, and Mediastack 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.