JSON Server vs Swagger UI: What are the differences?

Introduction: JSON Server and Swagger UI are two tools commonly used in web development. While they both serve different purposes, they are often used together to enhance API development and documentation. In this markdown, we will explore the key differences between JSON Server and Swagger UI.

1. Data Interaction: JSON Server is primarily used to create a mock REST API server. It allows developers to generate a fully functional REST API server using a JSON file as the data source. On the other hand, Swagger UI is a tool for documenting and interacting with RESTful APIs. It provides a user-friendly UI where developers can explore and test different API endpoints using live data.

2. Data Source: JSON Server uses a JSON file as the data source. It reads the data from the JSON file and serves it through the generated API endpoints. In contrast, Swagger UI doesn't have its own data source. It relies on the actual API that is being documented. Swagger UI reads the API documentation (usually in the form of a Swagger or OpenAPI specification) and generates a user interface based on that.

3. API Testing: JSON Server allows developers to test the API by sending HTTP requests and observing the response. However, the testing capabilities of JSON Server are limited to the functionalities provided by the API server itself. Swagger UI, on the other hand, provides a comprehensive testing environment. It supports sending different types of HTTP requests, adding request headers, and inspecting the response in real-time.

4. Data Formatting and Structure: With JSON Server, the data structure and formatting are determined solely by the JSON file being used. JSON Server reads the JSON file as is and serves it as a RESTful API. In contrast, Swagger UI provides a standardized way of documenting APIs using the OpenAPI specification. This specification defines the structure and formatting of the API endpoints, making it easier for developers to understand and consume the API.

5. API Documentation: While JSON Server provides a basic API documentation by showing the available endpoints and their corresponding data, Swagger UI offers a more comprehensive documentation experience. It not only displays the API endpoints but also provides information about request/response payloads, HTTP status codes, and example requests/responses. This makes it easier for developers to understand the API and build applications on top of it.

6. Customization: JSON Server is relatively straightforward and has limited customization options. Developers can modify the behavior of the API server by updating the JSON file, but there are not many other customization options available. On the other hand, Swagger UI offers extensive customization options. Developers can modify the UI layout, colors, and add custom branding to match their application's design.

In Summary, JSON Server is primarily used for creating a mock REST API server, while Swagger UI is used for documenting and interacting with actual RESTful APIs. JSON Server uses a JSON file as the data source, while Swagger UI relies on the API documentation. JSON Server provides limited testing capabilities, while Swagger UI offers a comprehensive testing environment. JSON Server serves the data as is, while Swagger UI provides a standardized way of documenting APIs. Swagger UI offers more comprehensive API documentation and customization options compared to JSON Server.