Ordinals API | Marketplace API | Web3 WaaS API Documentation

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Web3 development is evolving at a rapid pace, and developers need reliable, scalable, and secure infrastructure to build the next generation of decentralized applications. OKX Web3 WaaS (Wallet-as-a-Service) provides a comprehensive suite of APIs that streamline integration across multiple blockchain ecosystems. Whether you're building on Bitcoin with Ordinals, launching NFT marketplaces, or enabling cross-chain DeFi transactions, OKX OS delivers powerful tools designed for efficiency and ease of use.

This guide explores the core components of the Marketplace API, with a deep focus on the Ordinals API, Runes API, and related functionalities. We'll also touch on key supporting services like Wallet API, DEX API, and DeFi API to give you a holistic view of how these systems work together.

Understanding OKX Web3 WaaS

OKX Web3 WaaS is a developer-first platform offering modular APIs that abstract blockchain complexity. It enables developers to integrate wallet capabilities, decentralized exchange functions, NFT marketplaces, and DeFi protocols without managing node infrastructure or complex cryptography.

The platform supports major networks including Bitcoin, Ethereum, BNB Chain, Solana, and more — making it ideal for multi-chain application development.

👉 Discover how OKX Web3 WaaS simplifies blockchain integration for your next project.

Marketplace API Overview

The Marketplace API is central to building NFT and digital asset platforms on Web3. It allows developers to interact with on-chain data, manage listings, retrieve collection metadata, and track user activities across supported blockchains — especially Bitcoin via the Ordinals protocol.

Key Features:

These capabilities are particularly valuable for marketplaces, portfolio trackers, analytics dashboards, and launchpads.

BTC Ordinals API: Unlocking Bitcoin’s Digital Collectibles

Bitcoin is no longer just a currency — it's a canvas. With the rise of Ordinals, users can inscribe images, text, and even full applications directly onto satoshis. The BTC Ordinals API from OKX enables developers to programmatically access this new layer of Bitcoin data.

Core Endpoints

Retrieve Ordinals Collection

Get a complete list of all BTC NFT and BRC-20 token collections available on the network. This endpoint returns metadata such as collection name, symbol, total supply, floor price, and market cap.

Use cases include:

Retrieve Ordinals Listings

Fetch all active listings for a specific collection. This includes listing price, seller address, inscription ID, and time remaining. Ideal for real-time marketplace views and price comparison engines.

Retrieve Ordinals Activities

Access all transaction records under a given collection — including mints, sales, and transfers. Each record contains timestamp, buyer/seller addresses, price in BTC, and fees.

This data fuels analytics platforms and helps users audit trading history.

Create Listing to OKX

Programmatically list an Ordinal inscription on the OKX marketplace. This endpoint supports secure signing through integrated SDKs and ensures fast propagation across the network.

Developers can automate batch listings or build white-label storefronts using this functionality.

Pro Tip: Combine Retrieve Listings with Create Listing to build dynamic auto-rebalancing marketplaces that respond to real-time demand.

Quick Start Guide

Getting started with the Ordinals API is straightforward:

  1. Register your app on OKX Web3 Build.
  2. Obtain your API key with proper permissions.
  3. Choose your target network (e.g., Bitcoin mainnet or testnet).
  4. Call endpoints using standard HTTPS requests.
  5. Parse JSON responses and integrate into your frontend or backend.

All requests require authentication via API key headers. Rate limits apply based on subscription tier.

👉 Jumpstart your Ordinals integration with step-by-step setup instructions.

Runes API: The Next Evolution of Bitcoin Tokens

While BRC-20 brought fungible tokens to Bitcoin, Runes offer a more efficient and standardized protocol for creating and transferring tokens directly on Bitcoin’s base layer.

The Runes API provides:

This makes it easier than ever to build Runes-compatible wallets, exchanges, and analytics tools.

Fractal Ordinals API

Fractal Bitcoin introduces scalable layer-1 solutions while maintaining decentralization. The Fractal Ordinals API extends standard Ordinals functionality to the Fractal network, enabling high-throughput inscription handling and lower-cost deployments.

Developers building on Fractal can leverage the same familiar endpoints as the main BTC Ordinals API, ensuring minimal friction during cross-network deployment.

Supporting APIs for Full Ecosystem Integration

While the Marketplace API powers NFT and digital asset interactions, several complementary APIs enhance functionality:

Wallet API

Manage non-custodial wallet accounts programmatically:

Ideal for embedded wallets in games, social apps, and fintech platforms.

DEX API

Enable seamless token swaps and cross-chain liquidity:

Perfect for DeFi dashboards or apps requiring frictionless token exchange.

DeFi API

Access yield rates, staking pools, lending markets, and liquidity protocols across chains. Use it to:

Best Practices for API Usage

To maximize performance and reliability:

OKX provides detailed error codes and status messages across all APIs to help debug issues quickly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What is the difference between Ordinals and BRC-20 tokens?
A: Ordinals refer to individual satoshis inscribed with content (like NFTs), while BRC-20 is a token standard for creating fungible tokens on Bitcoin. Both are supported under the same API umbrella.

Q: Can I list an Ordinal without manual approval?
A: Yes — the Create Listing endpoint allows fully automated submissions as long as the inscription is valid and fees are paid.

Q: Is there a sandbox environment for testing?
A: Yes. OKX supports testnet integration for Bitcoin and other networks. Use the Quick Start guide to configure your environment.

Q: How often is collection data updated?
A: Data syncs in near real-time — typically within seconds of on-chain confirmation.

Q: Do I need KYC to use the APIs?
A: No. Access is granted based on API key authentication without requiring personal verification.

Q: Are there usage limits on free tier plans?
A: Yes. Free tiers include rate-limited access; higher throughput requires upgraded plans.

Final Thoughts

The convergence of NFTs, tokens, and decentralized finance on Bitcoin marks a pivotal moment in Web3 evolution. With OKX’s robust Marketplace API, Ordinals API, and Runes support, developers now have the tools to build innovative applications that push the boundaries of what’s possible on one of the most secure blockchains in existence.

Whether you're launching a marketplace, analyzing market trends, or building a wallet with native inscription support, OKX Web3 WaaS reduces development time and accelerates go-to-market speed.

👉 Start building today — access powerful Web3 APIs with full documentation and SDKs.