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Open Science Framework vs OpenAlex

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

APIOpen Science FrameworkNEW—OpenAlexNEW—
Uptime · 30d
Uptime · 90d—%—%
Uptime · 30d—%—%
P50 · ms——
P95 · ms——
Authnonenone
CORSnoyes
HTTPSyesyes
Card requirednono
Commercial useunclearyes
Data licenseUnverifiedCC0
Free tierFree — limits not publishedFree tier (~$1/day of usage); free API key available for more
Rate limitUnpublishedUsage-metered free tier (~$1/day per docs)
In directory since2026-07-052026-07-05
operationalpartialdownno data

Open Science Framework vs OpenAlex: common questions

Which is more reliable, Open Science Framework or OpenAlex?

On our scheduled checks, OpenAlex leads on measured uptime — Open Science Framework at —% versus OpenAlex 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 Science Framework and OpenAlex need an API key?

Neither needs a paid key — Open Science Framework is callable with no signup, and OpenAlex is callable with no signup. Both are quick to prototype with; rate limits still apply.

Can I call Open Science Framework and OpenAlex from the browser?

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

Are Open Science Framework and OpenAlex free for commercial use?

Open Science Framework has unclear commercial terms, and OpenAlex allows commercial use on its free tier. 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.