GBIF vs iDigBio
Same instrument, two spec sheets — measured, not claimed.
GBIF vs iDigBio: common questions
Which is more reliable, GBIF or iDigBio?
On our scheduled checks, GBIF leads on measured uptime — GBIF at 100% versus iDigBio at 92.2% over 90 days. These are our own probe results, not provider claims; the uptime bars above show the day-by-day record for both.
Which is faster, GBIF or iDigBio?
GBIF has the lower median latency in our checks — GBIF responds in 737 ms versus iDigBio at 1700 ms (P50). Tail latency (P95) is in the table above; for most workloads the median is the number that shapes how the API feels.
Do GBIF and iDigBio need an API key?
Neither needs a paid key — GBIF is callable with no signup, and iDigBio is callable with no signup. Both are quick to prototype with; rate limits still apply.
Can I call GBIF and iDigBio from the browser?
Yes — both GBIF and iDigBio 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 iDigBio free for commercial use?
GBIF has unclear commercial terms, and iDigBio 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.