Top Resting Alternatives for Streamlined API Testing
Resting is a rest client designed to simplify the daily work of developers in testing and analyzing HTTP/Rest requests. Inspired by Postman, its focus lies in being lightweight and efficient for managing saved requests. However, depending on your specific needs for advanced features, broader platform support, or open-source solutions, you might be looking for a powerful Resting alternative. This article explores some of the best tools available to help you find the perfect fit for your API development and testing workflow.
Top Resting Alternatives
While Resting offers a focused experience, the world of API clients is rich with diverse options. Here are some of the leading alternatives that provide robust features, flexible platforms, and often, extensive community support.
Postman
Postman is a comprehensive tool that greatly facilitates the development and use of APIs, offering extensive functionality for creating, simulating, and managing API specifications. As a robust Resting alternative, Postman supports various platforms including Freemium, Mac, Windows, Linux, Web, and Chrome OS. Its features include Development API, REST API, API Management, CI/CD, Graphical interface, SOAP API, and Version and Source control, making it a powerful solution for complex API workflows.
Insomnia REST Client
Insomnia REST Client is a powerful REST API Client known for its cookie management, environment variables, code generation, and authentication capabilities across Mac, Window, and Linux. This open-source Resting alternative offers a lightweight experience with features like Request Chaining, Responsive design, Separated workspaces, Cloud sync, GraphQL integration, and support for Keyboard Shortcuts and SSL client certificates, making it a flexible choice for developers.
Advanced REST Client (ARC)
Advanced REST Client (ARC) is an API testing tool that empowers web developers to create and test custom HTTP requests. As a free and open-source Resting alternative, ARC is available on Mac, Windows, Linux, Chrome OS, and Chrome. It provides full headers control, a web tool interface, and is Electron-based, making it a practical choice for developers seeking a no-cost, versatile solution.
Postwoman
Postwoman, now known as Hoppscotch, is an open-source API request builder designed to help you create requests faster. This free and self-hosted Resting alternative runs directly in the web browser, offering features like Ad-free usage, Cross-browser testing, Websocket streams, Cross-platform compatibility, and GraphQL API support, making it an excellent choice for developers who prefer a minimalist, web-based tool.
RESTer
RESTer is a REST client available as a Firefox and Chrome extension, making it easily accessible for almost any web service. This free and open-source Resting alternative supports Mac, Windows, and Linux, and offers features like API Management, Google Chrome Extensions, Firefox Extensions, Project Organization, and Variables, providing a convenient in-browser solution for quick API testing.
HttpRequester
HttpRequester is a straightforward tool for easily making HTTP requests (GET/PUT/POST/DELETE), viewing responses, and keeping a history of transactions. As a free and open-source Resting alternative available on Mac, Windows, Linux, and Firefox, it includes a Debugger and is specifically designed as a Firefox Extension, catering to developers who prefer browser-integrated tools.
RESTClient
RESTClient is a free and open-source application that can be used to test a variety of HTTP communications and RESTful webservices. Available on Mac, Windows, and Linux, this Resting alternative provides a friendly GUI and rich functionalities for basic API testing needs.
getd.io
getd.io is a free, online REST API builder that works seamlessly with CORS, positioning itself as a Postman alternative without the need for native apps. This Software as a Service (SaaS) Resting alternative is entirely web-based and supports Websocket streams, API Management, and GraphQL API, making it ideal for those who prefer an online, accessible tool.
TestMace
TestMace is a powerful IDE designed for working with APIs, providing the benefits of scenarios, autocompletion, and syntax highlighting for API development. This free Resting alternative is available on Mac, Windows, and Linux, and offers advanced features like a flexible variables mechanism, graphical interface, Import Curl commands, and support for environment variables, catering to developers needing a comprehensive desktop solution.
Choosing the best Resting alternative ultimately depends on your specific development workflow, preferred platform, and the complexity of your API testing needs. Explore these options to find the tool that best empowers your daily work and enhances your productivity.