Side by side
iStock vs Pixabay
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.
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 Free plan AndroidAPIiPhone+1
Pixabay offers a broad community media library and a search API, with free use subject to license limits. Review the restrictions on standalone distribution and recognizable trademarks before using content commercially.
Visit PixabayThe facts
| iStock | Pixabay | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | API, Web | Android, API, iPhone, Web |
| Lowest paid plan | Unlimited AI: $14.99 a month | Free or on request |
| Plans published | 4 | 2 |
| Maker | Not published | Pixabay |
| Website | istockphoto.com | pixabay.com |
| On stock photo websites | #5 of 80 | #1 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.
Pixabay: what it does well
- Free use without attribution is permitted.
- Content may be modified or adapted.
- Media includes photos, vectors, video, music, and sound effects.
- REST API returns search results as JSON.
What to know first
- Full-resolution photos and videos require sign-up.
- API requires caching requests for 24 hours.
- Standalone sale or distribution of content is prohibited.
Alternatives to iStock Alternatives to Pixabay The whole list