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HERE Maps API vs Nominatim API

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

The verdict

  • Choose HERE Maps API for its data: Create/customize digital maps based on HERE Maps data.
  • Choose Nominatim API if you want to start without an API key, to call it from browser JavaScript, faster responses.

Side by side

HERE Maps APINominatim API
What it doesCreate/customize digital maps based on HERE Maps data.Provides worldwide forward / reverse geocoding.
ProviderHERENominatim 5.3.3 Manual
API keyRequiredNot needed
HTTPSYesYes
CORS (browser calls)UnknownYes
Status todayOnline · 1124 msOnline · 637 ms
Uptime (30 days)UpUp
Developer ratingNot rated yetNot rated yet
PriceFree / free tierFree / free tier
HERE Maps docs ↗Nominatim docs ↗

About each API

HERE Maps logoHERE Maps API

Create/customize digital maps based on HERE Maps data.

Develop precise, location-aware applications with our extensive tools and services, from mapping and geocoding to routing and map data visualization. Get started today!

Strengths

  • HTTPS

Ratings, reviews and FAQ →

Nominatim logoNominatim API

Provides worldwide forward / reverse geocoding.

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.

HERE Maps vs Nominatim FAQ

Which needs an API key, HERE Maps API or Nominatim API?

HERE Maps API requires an API key; Nominatim API doesn't, so Nominatim API is quicker to try.

Which can I call from the browser?

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

More comparisons

HERE Maps API alternatives · Nominatim API alternatives · best Geocoding APIs