Open-Elevation API vs PostalCodes

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

Uptime · 30d
Uptime · 90d—%—%
Uptime · 30d—%—%
P50 · ms
P95 · ms
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 PostalCodes: common questions

Which is more reliable, Open-Elevation API or PostalCodes?

On our scheduled checks, PostalCodes leads on measured uptime — Open-Elevation API at —% versus PostalCodes 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 Open-Elevation API and PostalCodes need an API key?

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

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

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

Are Open-Elevation API and PostalCodes free for commercial use?

Open-Elevation API has unclear commercial terms, and PostalCodes 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.