Discover the Best RESTer Alternatives for Enhanced API Testing

RESTer, a popular REST client available as a Firefox and Chrome extension, has served many developers in their API testing endeavors. While it offers a straightforward way to interact with web services, the evolving landscape of API development often calls for more advanced features, broader platform support, or specific functionalities that RESTer might not provide. If you're looking to enhance your API workflow or simply explore other powerful tools, it's time to consider a robust RESTer alternative.

Top RESTer Alternatives for Developers

Whether you need more comprehensive features, better team collaboration, or a different user experience, there's a perfect REST client out there for you. Here's a curated list of the top RESTer alternatives that can elevate your API development and testing.

Postman

Postman is a comprehensive RESTer alternative that facilitates the entire API development lifecycle. It's a Freemium tool available across Mac, Windows, Linux, Web, and Chrome OS, offering robust features like Development API, REST API, API Management, CI/CD integration, and support for SOAP API. Its graphical interface and version control make it a powerful choice for individual developers and teams alike.

Insomnia REST Client

Insomnia REST Client is a powerful and open-source RESTer alternative, available on Mac, Windows, and Linux. It stands out with features like cookie management, environment variables, code generation, authentication, and GraphQL support. Its lightweight design, request chaining, and cloud sync capabilities make it an excellent choice for efficient API development.

HTTPie

For those who prefer the command line, HTTPie is a modern, user-friendly, and open-source RESTer alternative. Available on Mac, Windows, and Linux, it offers an intuitive UI, JSON support, syntax highlighting, and wget-like downloads, making it a powerful tool for web testing directly from your terminal.

Paw

Paw is a commercial RESTer alternative exclusively for Mac users. It's designed for easily crafting and testing HTTP requests, with features like HTTP Headers, URL parameters, form-encoded POST key-values, and easy-to-read responses. It also includes request chaining and HTML parsing capabilities, making it a robust developer tool.

soapUI

soapUI is a free and open-source RESTer alternative focused on functional testing of web services, including both SOAP-based and RESTful web services. Available on Mac, Windows, and Linux, it provides an intuitive interface for comprehensive API testing, making it a strong contender for those with extensive testing needs.

Advanced REST Client (ARC)

Advanced REST Client (ARC) is a free and open-source API testing tool and a strong RESTer alternative. Available across Mac, Windows, Linux, Chrome OS, and as a Chrome extension, it allows web developers to create and test custom HTTP requests with full headers control, making it a versatile and accessible developer tool.

Postwoman

Postwoman (now Hoppscotch) is an open-source API request builder and a fantastic web-based RESTer alternative. It's free, self-hosted, and cross-platform, offering features like ad-free experience, cross-browser testing, Websocket streams, and GraphQL API support. It’s ideal for developers looking for a lightweight, web-first solution.

HttpRequester

HttpRequester is a free and open-source RESTer alternative that works across Mac, Windows, Linux, and as a Firefox extension. It's a simple yet effective tool for making HTTP requests (GET/PUT/POST/DELETE), viewing responses, and keeping a transaction history, with a built-in debugger for web development.

RESTClient

RESTClient is a free and open-source RESTer alternative available for Mac, Windows, and Linux. It provides a user-friendly GUI for testing a variety of HTTP communications and RESTful webservices, offering rich functionalities for developers needing a dedicated client.

StopLight

StopLight is a comprehensive API lifecycle management platform and a powerful RESTer alternative. Available on Mac, Windows, Linux, and Web, it offers visual modeling solutions to streamline API development and testing, suitable for companies looking to manage their API ecosystems efficiently.

The best RESTer alternative for you will depend on your specific needs, preferred platform, and desired features. Whether you prioritize advanced testing capabilities, ease of use, open-source flexibility, or comprehensive API management, this list provides excellent options to explore and find the perfect fit for your development workflow.