Nominatim (OSM) vs Open Topo Data
Same instrument, two spec sheets — measured, not claimed.
Nominatim (OSM) vs Open Topo Data: common questions
Which is more reliable, Nominatim (OSM) or Open Topo Data?
On our scheduled checks, Nominatim (OSM) leads on measured uptime — Nominatim (OSM) at 100% versus Open Topo Data at 93.1% 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, Nominatim (OSM) or Open Topo Data?
Open Topo Data has the lower median latency in our checks — Nominatim (OSM) responds in 332 ms versus Open Topo Data at 285 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 Nominatim (OSM) and Open Topo Data need an API key?
Neither needs a paid key — Nominatim (OSM) is keyless but wants an identifying User-Agent header, and Open Topo Data is callable with no signup. Both are quick to prototype with; rate limits still apply.
Can I call Nominatim (OSM) and Open Topo Data from the browser?
Only Nominatim (OSM) is browser-friendly — it returns CORS headers over HTTPS. Open Topo Data needs a server-side call or proxy, so factor that into which one fits a front-end project.
Are Nominatim (OSM) and Open Topo Data free for commercial use?
Nominatim (OSM) is personal/non-commercial only, and Open Topo Data 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.