Top RESTtest Alternatives for API Testing

RESTtest is a straightforward tool designed for testing RESTful web services and standard HTTP calls, allowing users to input request bodies and headers, and view or save responses. While effective for basic needs, many developers seek a more robust RESTtest alternative with advanced features, broader platform support, or open-source flexibility. This article explores some of the best alternatives that offer enhanced capabilities for API development and testing.

Best RESTtest Alternatives

Whether you're looking for a free solution, a more comprehensive suite, or specific features like CI/CD integration, there's a REST client out there to suit your workflow. Let's dive into some of the top contenders.

Postman

Postman stands out as a leading RESTtest alternative, offering a comprehensive platform for API development and use. It provides extensive functionality for creating, testing, and documenting APIs, supporting REST, SOAP, and GraphQL APIs. Available on Freemium tiers for Mac, Windows, Linux, Web, and Chrome OS, Postman includes features like CI/CD integration, a graphical interface, and version control, making it a powerful choice for teams and individual developers.

Insomnia REST Client

Insomnia REST Client is a powerful and popular open-source RESTtest alternative known for its sleek design and robust features. Available as Freemium software for Mac, Windows, and Linux, it offers excellent cookie management, environment variables, code generation, and various authentication methods. Key features include request chaining, GraphQL integration, cloud sync, and support for importing cURL commands, making it a lightweight yet comprehensive tool for API testing and development.

Paw

Paw is a commercial RESTtest alternative designed specifically for Mac users who need to easily craft, try, and archive HTTP requests. It simplifies the process of setting up HTTP Headers, URL parameters, and POST data, and provides easy-to-read responses. With features like HTML parsing and request chaining, Paw is an excellent choice for macOS developers looking for a dedicated and intuitive API testing tool.

Advanced REST Client (ARC)

Advanced REST Client (ARC) is a free and open-source RESTtest alternative that allows web developers to create and test custom HTTP requests with full control over headers. Built on Electron, it's available for Mac, Windows, Linux, and Chrome OS, and can be accessed as a Chrome extension. Its straightforward interface and focus on HTTP request customization make it a solid choice for developers needing a no-frills, open-source tool.

Postwoman

Postwoman, now known as Hoppscotch, is a free and open-source API request builder that serves as an excellent web-based RESTtest alternative. It helps developers create requests faster and supports various features like WebSocket streams, GraphQL API, and cross-platform compatibility. Being self-hosted and ad-free, it offers a clean and efficient environment for API testing directly from your browser, making it highly accessible.

RESTer

RESTer is a convenient free and open-source RESTtest alternative available as an extension for Firefox and Chrome. It provides a straightforward interface for testing almost any web service, with features like project organization and variables for managing requests. Its integration directly into the browser makes it incredibly accessible for quick API tests without needing a standalone application.

RESTClient

RESTClient is a free and open-source RESTtest alternative designed for testing HTTP communications and RESTful webservices. Available for Mac, Windows, and Linux, it offers a friendly GUI and rich functionalities, making it a reliable choice for developers who prefer a dedicated desktop application without a cost. While its features aren't extensively listed, its open-source nature ensures community support and potential for customization.

StopLight

StopLight offers a more comprehensive API lifecycle management solution, acting as a powerful RESTtest alternative for businesses. Available in free personal and paid tiers for Mac, Windows, Linux, and Web, StopLight helps companies manage their API lifecycle from design to deployment. Its visual modeling capabilities aim to reduce manual effort, making it suitable for teams needing robust API governance and collaboration features.

getd.io

getd.io is a free, online REST API builder that functions as a web-based RESTtest alternative, particularly for those looking for a Postman alternative without native apps. It works seamlessly with CORS and supports WebSocket streams, GraphQL API, and general API management. Being a Software as a Service (SaaS) solution, it offers an accessible and convenient way to build and test REST APIs directly from your browser.

Requester

Requester is a free and open-source HTTP client plugin for Sublime Text, making it a unique RESTtest alternative for developers who prefer an integrated development environment approach. Available for Mac, Windows, and Linux, it boasts an expansive feature set, modern UX, elegant syntax, and first-class support for testing. Its debugger capabilities make it an excellent choice for those who want to test APIs directly within their text editor.

Each of these RESTtest alternatives offers distinct advantages, from comprehensive API development suites to lightweight browser extensions and integrated text editor plugins. We encourage you to explore these options and choose the best fit based on your specific API testing needs, development environment, and budget.