iTunes vs Open VSX Registry API
Same instrument, two spec sheets — measured, not claimed.
iTunes vs Open VSX Registry API: common questions
Which is more reliable, iTunes or Open VSX Registry API?
On our scheduled checks, Open VSX Registry API leads on measured uptime — iTunes at 68.6% versus Open VSX Registry API 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, iTunes or Open VSX Registry API?
Open VSX Registry API has the lower median latency in our checks — iTunes responds in 578 ms versus Open VSX Registry API at 245 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 iTunes and Open VSX Registry API need an API key?
Neither needs a paid key — iTunes is callable with no signup, and Open VSX Registry API is callable with no signup. Both are quick to prototype with; rate limits still apply.
Can I call iTunes and Open VSX Registry API from the browser?
Only Open VSX Registry API is browser-friendly — it returns CORS headers over HTTPS. iTunes needs a server-side call or proxy, so factor that into which one fits a front-end project.
Are iTunes and Open VSX Registry API free for commercial use?
iTunes has unclear commercial terms, and Open VSX Registry 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.