Side by side
iStock vs Science Photo Library
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
Paid Web
Science Photo Library combines specialized science and medicine media with search, board, research, and licensing tools. Buyers should check usage restrictions and choose between individual licensing and the listed annual packs.
Visit Science Photo LibraryThe facts
| iStock | Science Photo Library | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | No |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | API, Web | Web |
| Lowest paid plan | Unlimited AI: $14.99 a month | Standard Marketing Image Pack: £725 a year |
| Plans published | 4 | 6 |
| Maker | Not published | Science Photo Library |
| Website | istockphoto.com | sciencephoto.com |
| On stock photo websites | #4 of 80 | #56 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.
Science Photo Library: what it does well
- Science and medical image and video collection
- Search, boards, notes, and email sharing
- Rights Managed and Royalty Free licensing
- Free research from science experts
- High-resolution, unwatermarked premium downloads
What to know first
- No free plan
- Some media uses require prior clearance
- Footage-pack seconds expire within allocated periods
- Prices exclude VAT
Alternatives to iStock Alternatives to Science Photo Library The whole list