Datasette vs Shields
Same instrument, two spec sheets — measured, not claimed.
Datasette vs Shields: common questions
Which is more reliable, Datasette or Shields?
On our scheduled checks, Shields leads on measured uptime — Datasette at —% versus Shields 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 Shields need an API key?
Neither needs a paid key — Datasette is callable with no signup, and Shields is callable with no signup. Both are quick to prototype with; rate limits still apply.
Can I call Datasette and Shields from the browser?
Yes — both Datasette and Shields send CORS headers over HTTPS, so front-end code can fetch either directly with no backend proxy. That makes them easy to swap in a client-side app while you compare responses.
Are Datasette and Shields free for commercial use?
Datasette has unclear commercial terms, and Shields 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.