When it comes to choosing between API and web scraping as a data extraction method, there are several factors to consider. One of the key considerations is the availability of an API for the website or service from which data needs to be extracted. If an API is available and provides the necessary data in a structured format, using the API is often the preferred method. APIs are designed to provide access to specific data elements reliably and efficiently, making them a more stable and sustainable option for data extraction.
However, there are situations where web scraping may be the better choice. For example, if the website does not offer an API, or if the API does not provide access to the required data, web scraping may be the only option. Additionally, web scraping can be used to gather data from multiple sources simultaneously, which may not be possible using an API.
Another factor to consider is the legal and ethical implications of data extraction. While APIs are designed to provide access to data in a controlled and authorized manner, web scraping can raise legal and ethical concerns, especially if it violates the terms of service of the website being scraped. It is important to ensure that data extraction methods comply with relevant laws and regulations, as well as the terms of use of the websites being accessed.