GitHub REST API vs Packagist

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

Uptime · 30d
Uptime · 90d99.44%100%
Uptime · 30d100%100%
P50 · ms34992
P95 · ms2671939
Authnonenone
CORSyesno
HTTPSyesyes
Card requirednono
Commercial useunclearunclear
Data licenseUnverifiedUnverified
Free tierFree — limits not publishedFree — limits not published
Rate limitUnpublishedUnpublished
In directory since2026-07-052026-07-05
operationalpartialdownno data

GitHub REST API vs Packagist: common questions

Which is more reliable, GitHub REST API or Packagist?

On our scheduled checks, Packagist leads on measured uptime — GitHub REST API at 99.44% versus Packagist 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, GitHub REST API or Packagist?

Packagist has the lower median latency in our checks — GitHub REST API responds in 349 ms versus Packagist at 92 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 GitHub REST API and Packagist need an API key?

Neither needs a paid key — GitHub REST API is callable with no signup, and Packagist is callable with no signup. Both are quick to prototype with; rate limits still apply.

Can I call GitHub REST API and Packagist from the browser?

Only GitHub REST API is browser-friendly — it returns CORS headers over HTTPS. Packagist needs a server-side call or proxy, so factor that into which one fits a front-end project.

Are GitHub REST API and Packagist free for commercial use?

GitHub REST API has unclear commercial terms, and Packagist 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.