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Discogs API vs MusicBrainz API

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

The verdict

  • Choose Discogs API for its data: Music. A free music API by discogs.com.
  • Choose MusicBrainz API if you want to start without an API key.

Side by side

Discogs APIMusicBrainz API
What it doesMusic. A free music API by discogs.com.Music. A free music API by MusicBrainz.
Providerdiscogs.comMusicBrainz
API keyOAuthNot needed
HTTPSYesYes
CORS (browser calls)UnknownUnknown
Status todayOnline · 379 msOnline · 390 ms
Uptime (30 days)UpUp
Developer ratingNot rated yetNot rated yet
PriceFree / free tierFree / free tier

About each API

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.

Discogs vs MusicBrainz FAQ

Which needs an API key, Discogs API or MusicBrainz API?

Discogs API requires an API key; MusicBrainz API doesn't, so MusicBrainz API is quicker to try.

More comparisons

Discogs API alternatives · MusicBrainz API alternatives · best Music APIs