PlayerDB vs TCGApi

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

Uptime · 30d
Uptime · 90d100%100%
Uptime · 30d100%100%
P50 · ms4166
P95 · ms352243
AuthnoneapiKey
CORSyesyes
HTTPSyesyes
Card requirednono
Commercial useunclearunclear
Data licenseUnverifiedUnverified
Free tierFree, no API keyFree tier — API key may be required for production
Rate limitUnpublishedUnpublished
In directory since2026-07-052026-07-05
operationalpartialdownno data

PlayerDB vs TCGApi: common questions

Which is more reliable, PlayerDB or TCGApi?

Both are neck-and-neck — PlayerDB and TCGApi each measure 100% uptime over 90 days on our probe schedule. Reliability here is verified from our own scheduled checks; use the 30-day bars above to see which has been steadier lately.

Which is faster, PlayerDB or TCGApi?

PlayerDB has the lower median latency in our checks — PlayerDB responds in 41 ms versus TCGApi at 66 ms (P50). Tail latency (P95) is in the table above; for most workloads the median is the number that shapes how the API feels.

Do PlayerDB and TCGApi need an API key?

PlayerDB needs no key, while TCGApi requires a free API key. If you want to start calling without signup, reach for PlayerDB first.

Can I call PlayerDB and TCGApi from the browser?

Yes — both PlayerDB and TCGApi 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 PlayerDB and TCGApi free for commercial use?

PlayerDB has unclear commercial terms, and TCGApi 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.