Connecting to the blockchain typically involves using a blockchain node or a wallet to interact directly with the network. This can be done through various methods, such as using command-line interfaces, browser-based wallets, or more advanced software development kits (SDKs) that allow developers to integrate blockchain functionalities into their applications.

The need for API providers emerged to simplify and streamline this process. As blockchain technology grew in complexity and adoption, businesses and developers required more efficient ways to interact with different blockchain networks without managing their own nodes. API providers offer scalable, reliable, cost-effective, and easy-to-use interfaces that abstract the underlying blockchain protocols, making it easier for applications to connect, query, and transact on the blockchain. This has accelerated the integration of blockchain technology across various industries by reducing the technical barriers to entry. 

What does it take to be a blockchain API provider in this dynamic landscape? Running a node involves significant technical and operational challenges. That is where API providers come in and simplify this process by offering essential infrastructure services that allow developers and enterprises to access blockchain networks effortlessly. This article explores the role and benefits of API providers like Alchemy, Ankr, Blast API, Infura, Moralis, and QuickNode, highlighting how they facilitate the development and scaling of dApps.

What is a blockchain API provider?

To generate APIs for a certain blockchain network, a developer needs to create a node or more to support their project. Even though it is not an easy task, anyone can run a node with some devops knowledge, enough storage and specific hardware. These three requirements may vary, as each blockchain network operates on different technologies and has distinct specifications.

The complexity of running a node varies significantly depending on the consensus algorithm used, but it generally demands a deep understanding of the network. Moreover, it requires continuous operation to avoid penalties, which can be technically and operationally demanding. The process can incur substantial costs, making it not only a technical challenge but also a financial one. These challenges underscore the need for thorough preparation and resources before attempting to run a node.

Addressing these challenges, Blockchain API providers emerge as a solution aimed at reducing the entry barriers to participating in the consensus algorithm by offering access to blockchain networks. API providers are projects that grant developers who are eager to create dApps access as a service to blockchain networks, helping them get over the hassle of configuring and maintaining their own nodes. This enables developers to create and upload dApps, while communicating to the specific network through API services.

Let’s take a look at some of the current blockchain API providers out there, what needs they can cover, and what each of them offers in terms of core strengths and pricing. 

Alchemy

Alchemy is a cloud-based development platform that provides developers with the necessary tools to build, deploy, and scale dApps on various blockchain networks. They offer a suite of powerful APIs, enhanced data analytics, and streamlined node management, making it easier for developers to interact with blockchain technology without needing to manage the underlying infrastructure. Alchemy’s services are designed to enhance reliability and reduce latency, thereby improving user experience while minimizing operational complexities. They support a wide range of blockchain applications from NFT marketplaces to financial services.

Core strengths: scalable infrastructure, enhanced developer tools, reliable data access

Pricing: Alchemy offers multiple plans with prices ranging from $0 to $199/month. They also offer an on-demand enterprise plan.

Best for: developers seeking advanced tools and analytics. Alchemy provides robust developer tools, such as real-time debugging, transaction tracing, and comprehensive analytics, which streamline the development process and enhance productivity.

Other worthy-to-mention features: developer tools such as AlchemyAI and Create Web3 Dapp; Alchemy Notify, and Enhanced API

Ankr

Ankr is a prominent player in the blockchain infrastructure sector, offering a distributed computing platform that aims to make it easier and more cost-effective for organizations to deploy blockchain nodes and staking services. The platform leverages a global network of data centers to provide enterprise-grade hosting solutions, ensuring high uptime and scalability. Ankr distinguished itself by integrating multiple blockchain protocols, which allows developers to connect to and interact with several networks efficiently. Additionally, they focus on enhancing the accessibility of Web3 technologies by providing user-friendly interfaces and tools that simplify the process of deploying and managing blockchain infrastructures.

Core strengths: multi-chain compatibility, cost-efficiency, ease of use

Pricing: Ankr offers a free forever public plan, a pay-as-you-go premium plan of $10 per 100M credits, and an Enterprise plan starting from $1,000.

Best for: best for developers and enterprises seeking decentralized and multi-chain infrastructure solutions. Ankr provides a range of services including decentralized node hosting, staking solutions, and developer tools that simplify interaction with blockchain networks.

Other worthy-to-mention features: node marketplace, multi-chain support

Blast API

Blast API is an innovative platform designed to streamline the interaction between applications and various blockchains, making it easier for developers to integrate blockchain functionality into their projects. The API simplifies the process of querying blockchain data, executing transactions, and managing smart contracts. By providing a unified interface that hides the underlying complexities, Blast API enables developers to focus more on the core functionality of their dApps rather than on the intricacies of blockchain infrastructure. The protocol supports multiple blockchains, which makes it a versatile option for projects that require interoperability between different networks.

Core strengths: simplified integration, scalability, multi-blockchain support, real-time data access

Pricing: Blast API offers multiple plans with prices ranging from $0 to $250/month, with flexible payment methods – you can pay with crypto or use a credit card. They also offer an on-demand enterprise plan. 

Best for: high-performance and low-latency applications – ranging from DeFi to gaming and infrastructure, etc. Blast API is known for its fast and reliable access to blockchain data on 76+ networks and 39+ chains, making it suitable for applications that require real-time data processing and minimal latency, and support high traffic.

Other worthy-to-mention features: data indexing, global infrastructure, faucets, marketplace, SDKs, app chains

GetBlock

GetBlock is a blockchain infrastructure provider offering fast and reliable access to full nodes of various blockchain networks. It simplifies the process for developers to connect their applications to blockchain networks by providing scalable and easy-to-use APIs. This enables seamless integration for various blockchain platforms, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Binance Smart Chain, and more. GetBlock supports JSON-RPC, REST, and WebSockets protocols, ensuring flexible and efficient data interaction. With features like auto-scaling, comprehensive analytics, and high availability, GetBlock caters to both startups and enterprises, facilitating smoother blockchain development and operation.

Core strengths: multi-blockchain support, scalability, developer-friendly features

Pricing: GetBlock offers multiple plans with prices ranging from $0 to $499/month for shared nodes. For dedicated nodes the prices start from $600/node/month. 

Best for: security apps and transaction overview. With features like instant API integration, real-time data access, and robust support, GetBlock simplifies blockchain development and enhances efficiency.

Other worthy-to-mention features: dedicated server, developer tools, advanced monitoring and statistics

Infura

Infura is a service that provides a robust infrastructure for developers to connect to Ethereum and other blockchain networks without the need to set up and maintain their own nodes. They play a critical role in the blockchain ecosystem by offering easy access to Ethereum, IPFS, and other networks via its APIs, enabling developers to launch and scale their dApps more efficiently. Infura is widely recognized for its reliability and consistent performance, which are essential for applications that require high uptime and quick data retrieval. By removing the complexities of direct blockchain interactions, Infura allows developers to focus on building and improving their dApps.

Core strengths: reliable infrastructure, ease of integration, scalability

Pricing: Infura offers multiple plans with prices ranging from $0 to $1,000/month. They also offer an on-demand enterprise plan.

Best for: DAOs, DeFi, and gaming. Infura provides a highly reliable and scalable infrastructure with extensive support for Ethereum and IPFS, making it ideal for large-scale projects that need robust performance and uptime.

Other worthy-to-mention features: archive data access, InterPlanetary File System (IPFS) integration

Moralis

Moralis is a dynamic development platform tailored for building a wide range of dApps. They offer a robust suite of backend tools designed to streamline the development process, enabling developers to focus on creating user-centric features without the overhead of managing complex blockchain infrastructure. Moralis supports multiple blockchains, facilitating cross-chain functionality that broadens the scope of potential applications. This platform is especially appealing to developers looking to leverage the power of Web3 technologies in creating innovative, scalable, and highly functional dApps that integrate seamlessly with the blockchain.

Core strengths: cross-chain compatibility, automated backend functions, real-time data synchronization

Pricing: Moralis offers multiple plans with prices ranging from $0 to $249/month. They also offer an on-demand enterprise plan.

Best for: wallet builders and user engagement. Moralis simplifies the development process with its extensive set of SDKs, APIs, and integrations, enabling developers to quickly build and deploy Web3 applications without extensive backend setup.

Other worthy-to-mention features: real-time database, authentication solutions

QuickNode

QuickNode is a blockchain infrastructure provider, offering developers high-performance node management services across multiple blockchain networks. It is designed to support both established and emerging blockchains, providing the essential tools needed for fast and reliable access to blockchain data. QuickNode excels in reducing the complexity of setting up and maintaining nodes, thereby enabling developers to scale their dApps more effectively. Features such as instant analytics and end-to-end encryption make QuickNode a preferred choice for businesses and developers seeking to innovate within the Web3 space without the logistical challenges of direct blockchain management.

Core strengths: broad blockchain support, high performance, enhanced security

Pricing: QuickNode offers multiple plans with prices ranging from $0 to $299/month. They also offer an on-demand enterprise plan.

Best for: DeFi, gaming, trading solutions. Quicknode offers flexible and user-friendly solutions with a variety of configuration options, making it suitable for developers looking for customizable and straightforward blockchain API services.

Other worthy-to-mention features: custom node configuration, add-ons marketplace

Conclusion

Blockchain API providers are crucial in making blockchain technology accessible, reducing the complexity and cost of managing blockchain infrastructure. Through their diverse service offerings and flexible pricing, the API providers we presented in this article empower developers to innovate without the burdens of technical overhead. As these services continue to evolve, they will be key in fostering broader adoption and innovation in the blockchain space. Although we mentioned just some of the top API providers available on the market, there are a lot more players emerging in the Web3 space. If you know any providers worth mentioning, share our article on X and tag them.