ScrapingBee
Web ScrapingJavaScript-enabled web scraping API for SEO data extraction
Overview
ScrapingBee is a web scraping API that handles the technical complexity of extracting data from modern websites. Founded in 2019 by a team of French developers, it emerged as companies struggled to scrape JavaScript-heavy sites that traditional tools couldn't handle. Unlike basic HTTP scrapers, ScrapingBee uses headless Chrome instances to render pages fully before extraction, making it particularly valuable for SEO professionals who need to scrape dynamic content.
The platform differentiates itself from competitors like Apify and Diffbot by focusing purely on scraping infrastructure rather than pre-built extractors. This approach gives developers more control but requires more technical setup. ScrapingBee's strength lies in its proxy management and anti-detection capabilities, which are essential when scraping at the scale most SEO operations require.
ScrapingBee targets technical SEO professionals, agencies, and SaaS companies that need reliable data extraction at scale. It's ideal for teams with developers who can integrate APIs but don't want to manage proxy infrastructure. Digital marketing agencies use it for competitor monitoring, while SEO tools use it to power rank tracking and SERP analysis features. Solo practitioners might find the technical requirements and pricing steep compared to point-and-click alternatives.
Key features
JavaScript Rendering
Executes JavaScript on pages before scraping, essential for modern SPAs and dynamic content. Handles React, Vue, and Angular applications that traditional scrapers miss.
Rotating Proxies
Premium proxy rotation prevents IP blocks during large-scale scraping operations. Includes residential and datacenter proxies across multiple geographic locations.
Screenshot Capture
Takes full-page or element-specific screenshots alongside scraping data. Useful for visual monitoring of competitor pages and SERP layout changes.
Custom Headers
Configure user agents, cookies, and headers to mimic real browser requests. Critical for accessing content behind basic bot detection systems.
SERP Scraping
Specialized endpoints for Google, Bing, and other search engines. Extracts organic results, featured snippets, and knowledge panels for rank tracking.
Rate Limiting Protection
Built-in delays and request throttling prevent target sites from blocking your scraping activities. Automatically adjusts speed based on response patterns.
Webhook Integration
Async processing with webhook callbacks for large scraping jobs. Integrates with automation platforms like Zapier for hands-off data collection workflows.
Data Export Options
Returns data in JSON, CSV, or HTML formats. Direct integration with databases and analytics platforms through RESTful API responses.
Pricing
| Plan | Price | Includes |
|---|---|---|
| Free | $0 | 1,000 API credits, basic scraping, community support |
| Freelancer | $49/mo | 100,000 API credits, JavaScript rendering, premium proxies |
| Startup | $149/mo | 500,000 API credits, custom headers, webhook support |
| Business | $349/mo | 2M API credits, screenshot capture, priority support |
| Enterprise | Custom | Custom limits, dedicated infrastructure, SLA guarantees |
FAQ
Can ScrapingBee scrape Google search results for SEO?
Yes, ScrapingBee has dedicated SERP scraping endpoints for Google, Bing, and other search engines. It handles CAPTCHAs and bot detection automatically, though Google's anti-scraping measures are constantly evolving.
How does ScrapingBee compare to building your own scraper?
ScrapingBee handles proxy management, JavaScript rendering, and anti-bot measures that would take months to build in-house. The trade-off is ongoing API costs versus upfront development time and maintenance overhead.
Is ScrapingBee suitable for monitoring competitor content at scale?
Yes, it's designed for high-volume scraping with rate limiting and proxy rotation. However, respect robots.txt and terms of service - some sites explicitly prohibit automated access regardless of technical capabilities.
What's the difference between ScrapingBee and Apify for SEO tasks?
ScrapingBee is a pure API service focused on reliable scraping infrastructure. Apify offers pre-built scrapers and a marketplace of SEO-specific tools, making it better for non-technical users who want ready-made solutions.
Does ScrapingBee work with sites that require authentication?
Yes, you can pass cookies, session tokens, and custom headers to scrape authenticated content. However, you'll need to handle the initial login process yourself before making ScrapingBee requests.
Review Sentiment
122 reviews across 1 source
Bottom line
Start free, upgrade if it clicks. ScrapingBee earns a 4.9/5 for headless browser rendering handles, with paid plans from $49/mo. The most common criticism: starting at $49/mo with credit-based pricing.
People love
- +Headless browser rendering handles JavaScript-heavy pages that basic scrapers miss
- +Residential proxy rotation bypasses anti-scraping measures for reliable SERP data extraction
- +Clean API design makes integration straightforward for developers building SEO tools
Common complaints
- –Starting at $49/mo with credit-based pricing — costs scale with scraping volume
- –Advanced proxy configuration and session management not always straightforward
- –No pre-built scrapers for common SEO tasks — requires custom development
Last updated Feb 2026