Using multiple free API keys from the same IP – allowed or blocked?

I know the free API allows up to 180 requests per 3600 seconds. I created two completely separate free accounts and planned to use both to double the limit — 180 + 180 = 360 files per hour.

But it seems this doesn’t work. Does the system block this by detecting the same IP?

Also, if I hit the monthly limit on the first free API key, will the second key stop working too? Or is the limit only tied to the key, not the IP?

It is ok to use more than one free OCR API key - as long as you do not overdo it. If you use this approach too often/with too many keys, then our anti-spam detection will catch it.

If you use the paid PRO keys, you can of course use as many keys as needed.