Host.io vs Shodan

Host.io vs Shodan

Domain API Comparison

Overview

Host.io

Domain Intelligence and Technology Detection API

Host.io focuses on technology fingerprints, related-domain discovery, DNS data, and web market intelligence rather than registrar workflows.

1,000 requests/month free

Shodan

Internet Exposure Search for Devices and Services

Shodan indexes internet-facing devices, banners, vulnerabilities, and exposed services, making it a strong complement to domain-focused threat tools.

Limited web access

Pricing Comparison

Pricing Host.io Shodan
Free Tier 1,000 requests/month free Limited web access
Paid Plans Plans from $99/month Membership $49 one-time, subscriptions from $69/month
Enterprise Custom enterprise plans Corporate and enterprise plans
TLD Coverage Top 10M domain dataset Full internet coverage

Feature Comparison

Feature Host.io Shodan
Free Tier Limited Limited
API Access Included Included
Bulk Operations Included Included
Real-time Data Included Included
WHOIS Data Limited Limited
DNS Lookup Included Included
Domain Valuation Not Included Not Included
Brand Monitoring Included Not Included
MCP/AI Integration Not Included Not Included

Which is Better?

Choose Host.io if you need

  • Technology stack detection
  • Related domains discovery
  • Strong tie-in with the IPinfo ecosystem

Choose Shodan if you need

  • Unmatched device discovery
  • Well-known vulnerability and exposure workflows
  • Strong API and alerting ecosystem

Consider DomScan Instead

DomScan offers the best of both worlds with comprehensive features and developer-friendly pricing.

  • Free tier: 10,000 credits/month (no credit card)
  • 1,500+ TLDs supported
  • MCP integration for AI assistants
  • Domain valuation, brand monitoring, OSINT
DomScan vs Host.io DomScan vs Shodan

Related Comparisons

Get Started with DomScan

10,000 free credits/month • No credit card required

Try DomScan Free