Free JSON Formatter, Validator & Minifier
Format, validate and minify JSON instantly in your browser. No signup required.
Your JSON is processed locally in your browser and is never uploaded to our servers.
What is a JSON Formatter?
A JSON formatter — also called a JSON beautifier or pretty printer — takes raw or minified JSON and re-prints it with consistent indentation and line breaks so its structure is readable. Because formatting requires parsing, it also works as a JSON validator: anything that cannot be parsed is reported as an error instead of being silently reformatted. The same tool works in reverse as a JSON minifier when you need the smallest valid output.
How to use the JSON Formatter
- Paste JSON into the input area.
- Click Format JSON.
- Copy the result.
Features
- JSON formatting and pretty printing
- JSON validation with line and column hints
- JSON minification
- Customizable indentation: 2 spaces, 4 spaces or tabs
- One-click copy to clipboard
- Browser-side processing — no uploads
FAQ
- What is JSON?
- JSON (JavaScript Object Notation) is a lightweight, text-based data format built from objects, arrays, strings, numbers, booleans and null. It is the most common format for APIs and configuration files.
- How do I format JSON?
- Paste your JSON into the input area, pick an indentation style, then click Format JSON. The formatted, indented result appears in the output area ready to copy.
- Why is my JSON invalid?
- The most common causes are trailing commas, single quotes instead of double quotes, unquoted keys, missing brackets or braces, and comments, which JSON does not allow. The error message shows the approximate line and column of the problem.
- Does this JSON formatter upload my data?
- No. Parsing, formatting and minifying all happen locally in your browser. Your JSON is never sent to a server.
- What is the difference between formatting and minifying JSON?
- Formatting adds line breaks and indentation so the JSON is easy to read. Minifying removes all optional whitespace to produce the smallest valid representation, which is better for storage and transfer.