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MusicBrainz API vs Spotify API

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

The verdict

  • Choose MusicBrainz API if you want to start without an API key, faster responses.
  • Choose Spotify API for its data: View Spotify music catalog, manage users' libraries, get recommendations and more.

Side by side

MusicBrainz APISpotify API
What it doesMusic. A free music API by MusicBrainz.View Spotify music catalog, manage users' libraries, get recommendations and more.
ProviderMusicBrainzSpotify
API keyNot neededOAuth
HTTPSYesYes
CORS (browser calls)UnknownUnknown
Status todayOnline · 390 msOnline · 1611 ms
Uptime (30 days)UpUp
Developer ratingNot rated yetNot rated yet
PriceFree / free tierFree / free tier
MusicBrainz docs ↗Spotify docs ↗

About each API

Spotify logoSpotify API

View Spotify music catalog, manage users' libraries, get recommendations and more.

Retrieve metadata from Spotify content or control playback

Strengths

  • 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.

MusicBrainz vs Spotify FAQ

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

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

More comparisons

MusicBrainz API alternatives · Spotify API alternatives · best Music APIs