Mempool vs Pharos API

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

Uptime · 30d
Uptime · 90d—%—%
Uptime · 30d—%—%
P50 · ms
P95 · ms
AuthnoneapiKey
CORSyesno
HTTPSyesyes
Card requirednono
Commercial useunclearunclear
Data licenseUnverified (open-source project)Unverified
Free tierFree public API; no key for basic usageFree tier — API key required
Rate limitEnforced — HTTP 429 on excess, repeated abuse may be banned; numeric limits unpublishedUnpublished
In directory since2026-07-052026-07-05
operationalpartialdownno data

Mempool vs Pharos API: common questions

Which is more reliable, Mempool or Pharos API?

On our scheduled checks, Pharos API leads on measured uptime — Mempool at —% versus Pharos API at —% 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 Mempool and Pharos API need an API key?

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

Can I call Mempool and Pharos API from the browser?

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

Are Mempool and Pharos API free for commercial use?

Mempool has unclear commercial terms, and Pharos 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.