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Google Maps API vs OpenCage API

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

The verdict

  • Choose Google Maps API for its data: Create/customize digital maps based on Google Maps data.
  • Choose OpenCage API if you want to call it from browser JavaScript, faster responses.

Side by side

Google Maps APIOpenCage API
What it doesCreate/customize digital maps based on Google Maps data.Forward and reverse geocoding using open data.
ProviderGoogle Maps PlatformOpenCage
API keyRequiredRequired
HTTPSYesYes
CORS (browser calls)UnknownYes
Status todayOnline · 1896 msOnline · 702 ms
Uptime (30 days)UpUp
Developer ratingNot rated yetNot rated yet
PriceFree / free tierFree / free tier
Google Maps docs ↗OpenCage docs ↗

About each API

Google Maps logoGoogle Maps API

Create/customize digital maps based on Google Maps data.

Millions of websites and apps use Google Maps Platform to power location experiences for their users.

Strengths

  • HTTPS

Ratings, reviews and FAQ →

OpenCage logoOpenCage API

Forward and reverse geocoding using open data.

Easy-to-use forward and reverse geocoding API. Worldwide coverage. Affordable, predictable pricing. GDPR-compliant, made with open data, and trusted by thousands of developers

Strengths

  • 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 (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.

Google Maps vs OpenCage FAQ

Do Google Maps API and OpenCage API need an API key?

Both require authentication (apiKey and apiKey).

Which can I call from the browser?

OpenCage API supports CORS, so front-end JavaScript can call it directly. Call the other from a server.

More comparisons

Google Maps API alternatives · OpenCage API alternatives · best Geocoding APIs