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Mapbox 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 Mapbox API for its data: Create/customize beautiful digital maps. A free geocoding API by Mapbox.
  • Choose OpenCage API if you want to call it from browser JavaScript.

Side by side

Mapbox APIOpenCage API
What it doesCreate/customize beautiful digital maps. A free geocoding API by Mapbox.Forward and reverse geocoding using open data.
ProviderMapboxOpenCage
API keyRequiredRequired
HTTPSYesYes
CORS (browser calls)UnknownYes
Status todayOnline · 532 msOnline · 702 ms
Uptime (30 days)UpUp
Developer ratingNot rated yetNot rated yet
PriceFree / free tierFree / free tier
Mapbox docs ↗OpenCage docs ↗

About each API

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.

Mapbox vs OpenCage FAQ

Do Mapbox 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

Mapbox API alternatives · OpenCage API alternatives · best Geocoding APIs