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GBIF vs MotaWord API

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

APIGBIFNEW—MotaWord APINEW—
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 — API key required
Rate limitUnpublishedUnpublished
In directory since2026-07-052026-07-05
operationalpartialdownno data

GBIF vs MotaWord API: common questions

Which is more reliable, GBIF or MotaWord API?

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

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

Can I call GBIF and MotaWord API from the browser?

Yes — both GBIF and MotaWord API 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 MotaWord API free for commercial use?

GBIF has unclear commercial terms, and MotaWord 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.