openFDA vs SharpAPI
Same instrument, two spec sheets — measured, not claimed.
openFDA vs SharpAPI: common questions
Which is more reliable, openFDA or SharpAPI?
On our scheduled checks, SharpAPI leads on measured uptime — openFDA at —% versus SharpAPI 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 SharpAPI need an API key?
openFDA needs no key, while SharpAPI requires a free API key. If you want to start calling without signup, reach for openFDA first.
Can I call openFDA and SharpAPI from the browser?
Yes — both openFDA and SharpAPI 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 SharpAPI free for commercial use?
openFDA has unclear commercial terms, and SharpAPI 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.