Blockchain · head-to-head
Nownodes vs Watchdata
NOWNodes runs hosted full nodes for Bitcoin, Ethereum, and dozens of other chains, giving developers a single JSON-RPC/REST gateway instead of operating node infrastructure themselves. A free tier covers 100,000 requests for one month to get started, after which usage moves to metered Pro/Business/Enterprise plans billed per request volume. Every endpoint requires an api-key header.
WatchData operates hosted JSON-RPC nodes across Ethereum, Polygon, BNB Smart Chain, and other networks, plus higher-level "Powered API" endpoints for token balances, transfer history, and block-timestamp lookups that would otherwise require custom indexing. Every call needs an api_key issued from the dashboard after a free signup, with a 100-million-unit free monthly allowance before paid plans apply. Responses are plain JSON-RPC.
| Nownodes | Watchdata | |
|---|---|---|
| Authentication | API Key | API Key |
| Pricing | freemium | freemium |
| Formats | JSON | JSON |
| CORS | yes | yes |
| HTTPS | Yes | Yes |