Open5e vs CheapShark
Same instrument, two spec sheets — measured, not claimed.
Open5e vs CheapShark: common questions
Which is more reliable, Open5e or CheapShark?
On our scheduled checks, CheapShark leads on measured uptime — Open5e at —% versus CheapShark 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 Open5e and CheapShark need an API key?
Neither needs a paid key — Open5e is callable with no signup, and CheapShark is callable with no signup. Both are quick to prototype with; rate limits still apply.
Can I call Open5e and CheapShark from the browser?
Yes — both Open5e and CheapShark send CORS headers over HTTPS, so front-end code can fetch either directly with no backend proxy. That makes them easy to swap in a client-side app while you compare responses.
Are Open5e and CheapShark free for commercial use?
Open5e has unclear commercial terms, and CheapShark 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.