Side by side

iStock vs Mauritius Images

Both stand on stock photo websites. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.

iStock

Free plan APIWeb

iStock combines a royalty-free visual library with AI editing tools, API access, and free content offerings. The listed annual Basic and Premium plans each cap downloads at 10 per month.

Visit iStock

Mauritius Images combines a broad image search with licensing, procurement, and creative agency services. Its usage-specific licensing and personal customer contact can help organisations with complex image needs, while larger purchases require sales contact.

Visit Mauritius Images

The facts

	iStock	Mauritius Images
Free plan	Yes	Not published
Open source	Not published	Not published
Runs on	API, Web	Web
Lowest paid plan	Unlimited AI: $14.99 a month	Image license (size S, WEB): €49, paid once
Plans published	4	1
Maker	Not published	Mauritius Images
Website	istockphoto.com	mauritius-images.com
On stock photo websites	#4 of 80	#59 of 80

iStock: what it does well

Library includes photos, illustrations, vectors, and video.
AI tools can extend images and change backgrounds.
Generated images include $10,000 legal protection per image.
One free Signature photo is offered each week.
API access is listed.

What to know first

Basic and Premium list 10 downloads per month.
Basic costs $29/user/mo on an annual plan.
Premium costs $70/user/mo on an annual plan.

Mauritius Images: what it does well

Large stated premium-image library
Offers rights research and commissioned shoots
Handles image, video, and audio purchasing
Provides tailored lightbox selections free
Supports Rights Managed licensing

What to know first

Larger orders require contacting sales
Rights Managed prices depend on usage
Example licence costs €49, paid once
The agency is a paid service

Alternatives to iStock Alternatives to Mauritius Images The whole list