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Alex Spinov
Alex Spinov

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What's the Most Underrated Free API You've Used?

I've been exploring free APIs for the past 2 weeks and documenting every useful one I find.

Some of my favorites so far:

  • arXiv API — Search 2M+ research papers, no key needed
  • PyPI JSON API — Get metadata on any Python package instantly
  • npm Registry API — Discover packages by keyword, zero auth
  • Libraries.io — Track 8M+ packages across 40+ platforms
  • Hacker News API — Real-time tech news via Firebase

But I know there are MANY more hidden gems out there.

What's a free API you've used that most developers don't know about?

Bonus points if:

  • No API key required
  • Returns JSON
  • Has a genuinely useful dataset

I'm collecting these into a comprehensive list on GitHub and would love to add your suggestions (with credit!).


Related articles if you want to see code examples:


Need custom dev tools, scrapers, or API integrations? I build automation for dev teams. Email spinov001@gmail.com — or explore awesome-web-scraping.


More from me: 10 Dev Tools I Use Daily | 77 Scrapers on a Schedule | 150+ Free APIs
Also: Neon Free Postgres | Vercel Free API | Hetzner 4x More Server
NEW: I Ran an AI Agent for 16 Days — What Actually Works


Need data from the web without writing scrapers? Check my *Apify actors** — ready-made scrapers for HN, Reddit, LinkedIn, and 75+ more sites. Or email: spinov001@gmail.com*

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