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CurrencyBeacon API vs Frankfurter API

Two free Currency Exchange APIs compared on access, reliability and developer ratings, using data from our daily health checks.

The verdict

  • Choose CurrencyBeacon API if you want faster responses.
  • Choose Frankfurter API if you want to start without an API key.

Side by side

CurrencyBeacon APIFrankfurter API
What it doesReal-time and historical currency exchange rates with free tier.Exchange rates, currency conversion and time series.
ProviderCurrencyBeaconFrankfurter
API keyRequiredNot needed
HTTPSYesYes
CORS (browser calls)YesYes
Status todayOnline · 947 msOnline · 1501 ms
Uptime (30 days)UpUp
Developer ratingNot rated yetNot rated yet
PriceFree / free tierFree / free tier
CurrencyBeacon docs ↗Frankfurter docs ↗

About each API

CurrencyBeacon API

Real-time and historical currency exchange rates with free tier.

CurrencyBeacon is a developer-friendly currency rates REST API with code samples, SDK-ready JSON responses, and an MCP server for AI agents.

Strengths

  • Callable from the browser (CORS)
  • HTTPS

Ratings, reviews and FAQ →

Frankfurter logoFrankfurter API

Exchange rates, currency conversion and time series.

Free, open-source exchange rates API for 223 currencies. Current and historical rates from 105 central banks and official sources. No API key required.

Strengths

  • No API key needed
  • Callable from the browser (CORS)
  • HTTPS

Ratings, reviews and FAQ →

How to choose between them

  • Prototyping or a tutorial? Pick the one that needs no API key.
  • Calling from a web page? You need CORS. Otherwise route requests through your own server or a serverless function.
  • Going to production? Favour HTTPS, a strong uptime record and a provider with clear rate limits and terms. Check each API's docs before you commit.
  • Still unsure? Both are free to try: send one request to each and compare the data you get back.

CurrencyBeacon vs Frankfurter FAQ

Which needs an API key, CurrencyBeacon API or Frankfurter API?

CurrencyBeacon API requires an API key; Frankfurter API doesn't, so Frankfurter API is quicker to try.

More comparisons

CurrencyBeacon API alternatives · Frankfurter API alternatives · best Currency Exchange APIs