Skip to content
Flickr logovsUnsplash logo

Flickr API vs Unsplash API

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

The verdict

  • Choose Flickr API if you want faster responses.
  • Choose Unsplash API for its data: Create with the largest collection of high-quality images that are free to use.

Side by side

Flickr APIUnsplash API
What it doesThe safest and most inclusive global community of photography enthusiasts.Create with the largest collection of high-quality images that are free to use.
ProviderFlickr ServicesUnsplash
API keyOAuthOAuth
HTTPSYesYes
CORS (browser calls)UnknownUnknown
Status todayOnline · 581 msOnline · 974 ms
Uptime (30 days)UpUp
Developer ratingNot rated yetNot rated yet
PriceFree / free tierFree / free tier

About each API

Flickr logoFlickr API

The safest and most inclusive global community of photography enthusiasts.

The safest and most inclusive global community of photography enthusiasts. The best place for inspiration, connection, and sharing!

Strengths

  • HTTPS

Ratings, reviews and FAQ →

Unsplash logoUnsplash API

Create with the largest collection of high-quality images that are free to use.

Create with the largest collection of high-quality images that are free to use. Trusted by Trello, Medium, and thousands of other API applications to power their free picture needs.

Strengths

  • HTTPS

Ratings, reviews and FAQ →

How to choose between them

  • Prototyping or a tutorial? Pick the one that needs no API key (neither does, so compare their free tiers).
  • 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.

Flickr vs Unsplash FAQ

Do Flickr API and Unsplash API need an API key?

Both require authentication (OAuth and OAuth).

More comparisons

Flickr API alternatives · Unsplash API alternatives · best Photography APIs