openFDA vs LAPIS
Same instrument, two spec sheets — measured, not claimed.
openFDA vs LAPIS: common questions
Which is more reliable, openFDA or LAPIS?
On our scheduled checks, LAPIS leads on measured uptime — openFDA at —% versus LAPIS 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 openFDA and LAPIS need an API key?
Neither needs a paid key — openFDA is callable with no signup, and LAPIS is callable with no signup. Both are quick to prototype with; rate limits still apply.
Can I call openFDA and LAPIS from the browser?
Yes — both openFDA and LAPIS 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 openFDA and LAPIS free for commercial use?
openFDA has unclear commercial terms, and LAPIS 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.