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GBIF vs GoldBean

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

APIGBIFNEW—GoldBeanNEW—
Uptime · 30d
Uptime · 90d—%—%
Uptime · 30d—%—%
P50 · ms——
P95 · ms——
AuthnoneapiKey
CORSyesyes
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

GBIF vs GoldBean: common questions

Which is more reliable, GBIF or GoldBean?

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

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

Can I call GBIF and GoldBean from the browser?

Yes — both GBIF and GoldBean 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 GBIF and GoldBean free for commercial use?

GBIF has unclear commercial terms, and GoldBean 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.