Open-Elevation API vs Open Topo Data

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

Uptime · 30d
Uptime · 90d92.2%93.1%
Uptime · 30d88.3%88.3%
P50 · ms739285
P95 · ms4287573
Authnonenone
CORSyesno
HTTPSyesyes
Card requirednono
Commercial useunclearunclear
Data licenseUnverifiedUnverified
Free tierFree — limits not publishedFree — limits not published
Rate limitUnpublishedUnpublished
In directory since2026-07-052026-07-05
operationalpartialdownno data

Open-Elevation API vs Open Topo Data: common questions

Which is more reliable, Open-Elevation API or Open Topo Data?

On our scheduled checks, Open Topo Data leads on measured uptime — Open-Elevation API at 92.2% 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, Open-Elevation API or Open Topo Data?

Open Topo Data has the lower median latency in our checks — Open-Elevation API responds in 739 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 Open-Elevation API and Open Topo Data need an API key?

Neither needs a paid key — Open-Elevation API is callable with no signup, and Open Topo Data is callable with no signup. Both are quick to prototype with; rate limits still apply.

Can I call Open-Elevation API and Open Topo Data from the browser?

Only Open-Elevation API 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 Open-Elevation API and Open Topo Data free for commercial use?

Open-Elevation API has unclear commercial terms, 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.