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DataCite API vs iNaturalist API

Two free Science & Math APIs compared on access, reliability and developer ratings, using data from our daily health checks.

The verdict

  • Choose DataCite API if its data fits your use case better; on access and reliability it's level with iNaturalist API.
  • Choose iNaturalist API if its data fits your use case better; on access and reliability it's level with DataCite API.

Side by side

DataCite APIiNaturalist API
What it doesSearch and retrieve DOI metadata for research datasets and publications.Citizen-science wildlife observations with species identification and mapping.
ProviderDataCite SupportiNaturalist API
API keyNot neededNot needed
HTTPSYesYes
CORS (browser calls)YesYes
Status todayOnline · 1239 msOnline · 1121 ms
Uptime (30 days)UpUp
Developer ratingNot rated yetNot rated yet
PriceFree / free tierFree / free tier
DataCite docs ↗iNaturalist docs ↗

About each API

DataCite logoDataCite API

Search and retrieve DOI metadata for research datasets and publications.

The DataCite REST API enables retrieval of DataCite DOI metadata records and account information. The API is generally RESTful and returns results in JSON (following the JSON:API specification). REST API for Metadata Retrieval This guide will walk you through the options for retrieving metadata wit…

Strengths

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

Ratings, reviews and FAQ →

iNaturalist logoiNaturalist API

Citizen-science wildlife observations with species identification and mapping.

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 (both qualify).
  • 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.

DataCite vs iNaturalist FAQ

Do DataCite API and iNaturalist API need an API key?

Neither needs an API key; you can call both straight away.

More comparisons

DataCite API alternatives · iNaturalist API alternatives · best Science & Math APIs