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What This JSON Formatter Offers
This free JSON formatter turns minified or hard-to-read JSON into clear, indented output. Paste or upload your JSON, choose 2 or 4 spaces or tab for indentation, and optionally sort object keys for consistent, diff-friendly results. The formatted output is shown with syntax highlighting (keys, strings, numbers, booleans, null). If the input is invalid, the tool reports the error and position or line number. Download the result or copy to clipboard. All processing runs in your browser; nothing is sent to a server.
- Pretty print: Converts minified or messy JSON into indented, readable form with consistent line breaks.
- Indent options: Choose 2 spaces, 4 spaces, or tab for indentation. Tab is useful for many code-style preferences.
- Sort keys: Optional recursive sort of object keys alphabetically so output is deterministic and easier to compare across versions.
- Syntax highlighting: Formatted output is color-coded: keys, strings, numbers, booleans, and null are visually distinct for faster scanning.
- Error reporting: Invalid JSON shows the parser error and, when available, the character position or line number to help you fix the issue.
- Paste or upload: Paste from clipboard or upload a .json file (including drag-and-drop). No registration required.
Powered by browser APIs and client-side processing.
Why Format JSON?
Minified JSON saves bandwidth but is hard to read and edit. Formatting it with indentation and line breaks makes structure obvious, so you can debug configs, inspect API responses, or prepare snippets for documentation. Sorting keys gives a stable order so version control diffs show real changes instead of reordering. Running the formatter in the browser keeps your data private and works offline after the page loads.
Options at a Glance
- Indent: 2 spaces, 4 spaces, or tab. Applied at every nesting level.
- Sort keys: When enabled, all object keys are sorted alphabetically (recursive). Arrays keep their order.
- Syntax highlight: Output is displayed with colors for keys, strings, numbers, booleans, and null.
- Download / Copy: Export the formatted JSON as a file or copy to clipboard. Data is the same in both cases.
- Clear: Clears input, output, and any error so you can start with new JSON.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is my JSON data secure?
Yes. Formatting runs entirely in your browser. Your data never leaves your device and is not sent to any server.
What if my JSON is invalid?
The tool shows an error message from the parser and, when available, the character position or line number so you can locate and fix the problem.
What indent options are available?
You can choose 2 spaces, 4 spaces, or tab. The output uses your choice for every indentation level.
What does Sort keys do?
When enabled, all object keys are sorted alphabetically (recursively). This gives consistent output and makes diffs between JSON files easier to read.
Can I format JSON from a file?
Yes. Use the file picker or drag-and-drop a .json file onto the input area. The file is read in your browser; nothing is uploaded.