GeoIP-db vs ipapi.com
Same instrument, two spec sheets — measured, not claimed.
GeoIP-db vs ipapi.com: common questions
Which is more reliable, GeoIP-db or ipapi.com?
On our scheduled checks, ipapi.com leads on measured uptime — GeoIP-db at 94.1% versus ipapi.com at 100% 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, GeoIP-db or ipapi.com?
GeoIP-db has the lower median latency in our checks — GeoIP-db responds in 220 ms versus ipapi.com at 301 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 GeoIP-db and ipapi.com need an API key?
GeoIP-db needs no key, while ipapi.com requires a free API key. If you want to start calling without signup, reach for GeoIP-db first.
Can I call GeoIP-db and ipapi.com from the browser?
Only GeoIP-db is browser-friendly — it returns CORS headers over HTTPS. ipapi.com needs a server-side call or proxy, so factor that into which one fits a front-end project.
Are GeoIP-db and ipapi.com free for commercial use?
GeoIP-db has unclear commercial terms, and ipapi.com 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.