Alternatives to json-server

A command-line tool that turns a JSON file into a fake REST API for prototyping. The listings below can replace it for an important use case. Each note says what changes if you switch.

Replacements

Listings that take over the same core job as json-server.

  • Mockoon

    A desktop app and CLI for designing and running mock REST APIs locally without an account.

    FreemiumOpen sourceWindowsmacOSLinuxCommand line

    Mockoon offers a desktop app plus CLI for designing local mock REST APIs, imports OpenAPI specifications and records requests, and is open source instead of a JSON-file-only tool.

  • WireMock

    An open-source tool for mocking HTTP APIs so you can test without real service dependencies.

    FreemiumOpen sourceWebSelf-hostedCommand line

    WireMock adds flexible request matching, response templating, record and playback, and fault simulation, but standalone mode needs Java or Docker rather than Node.js.

  • Prism

    An open-source mock server and validation proxy built from OpenAPI documents and Postman collections.

    FreeOpen sourceCommand line

    Prism generates a mock server directly from an OpenAPI file or Postman collection and adds a validation proxy, but depends on having a complete, accurate specification.

  • MockServer

    An open-source self-hosted server for mocking, proxying and recording HTTP, HTTPS and gRPC APIs.

    FreeOpen sourceSelf-hostedCommand line

    MockServer is an open-source self-hosted server that mocks and proxies HTTP and gRPC, records traffic and injects faults, starting with one Docker command.

  • Beeceptor

    A web service for creating mock API servers and inspecting incoming webhook requests in real time.

    FreemiumProprietaryWeb

    Beeceptor moves mocking to a hosted service on a unique subdomain with no setup and live request inspection, but requests pass through a third party and advanced features are paid.

  • Mockbin

    A free web tool that creates mock API endpoints with fixed responses and logs requests to them.

    FreeOpen sourceWeb

    Mockbin is a free open-source web tool for mock endpoints with fixed responses and request logging, needing no install, but without programmable logic or a data-backed REST API.

Similar software

Related functionality, not a direct replacement.

  • Postman

    The most widely used API client, for sending HTTP requests, organising them into collections and sharing them with a team.

    FreemiumProprietaryWindowsmacOSLinuxWeb

  • Stoplight

    A web platform for designing OpenAPI descriptions, generating API documentation and running mock servers.

    FreemiumProprietaryWeb

  • Apidog

    An API platform for designing, debugging, mocking and testing APIs, with desktop and web clients.

    FreemiumProprietaryWeb

  • PutsReq

    A web tool that records incoming HTTP requests and returns fake responses you define in JavaScript.

    FreeProprietaryWeb