GoldBean vs iDigBio
Same instrument, two spec sheets — measured, not claimed.
GoldBean vs iDigBio: common questions
Which is more reliable, GoldBean or iDigBio?
On our scheduled checks, GoldBean leads on measured uptime — GoldBean 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, GoldBean or iDigBio?
GoldBean has the lower median latency in our checks — GoldBean responds in 875 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 GoldBean and iDigBio need an API key?
iDigBio needs no key, while GoldBean requires a free API key. If you want to start calling without signup, reach for iDigBio first.
Can I call GoldBean and iDigBio from the browser?
Yes — both GoldBean 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 GoldBean and iDigBio free for commercial use?
GoldBean 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.