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MediaCaption API vs Simkl

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

APIMediaCaption APIDOCS OK100SimklDYING37
Uptime · 30d
Uptime · 90d100%0.0%
Uptime · 30d100%0.0%
P50 · ms1062—
P95 · ms1062—
AuthapiKeynone
CORSyesyes
HTTPSyesyes
Card requirednono
Commercial useyesunclear
Data licenseSimkl terms — user-contributed data
Free tier10 credits when you sign upFree read routes; client_id for search
Rate limit60 req/min1 req/s documented
In directory since2026-07-182026-07-05
operationalpartialdownno data

MediaCaption API vs Simkl: common questions

Which is more reliable, MediaCaption API or Simkl?

On our scheduled checks, MediaCaption API leads on measured uptime — MediaCaption API at 100% versus Simkl at 0.0% 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 MediaCaption API and Simkl need an API key?

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

Can I call MediaCaption API and Simkl from the browser?

Yes — both MediaCaption API and Simkl 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 MediaCaption API and Simkl free for commercial use?

MediaCaption API allows commercial use on its free tier, and Simkl 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.