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Use-case recommendation

Best Format for API Response Payloads

JSON is the default for most APIs; Proto is best for strict contracts and high-throughput services.

Open Samples Open Manifest
Recommendation

Define the default first.

JSON

JSON has universal tooling and easy debugging in API workflows.

application/json

Open Samples Open Hub

PROTO

Use Proto for typed schemas and compact transport.

Files: 9

Samples Hub

GRAPHQL

Use GraphQL schema contracts where query flexibility is required.

Files: 9

Samples Hub
Related decisions

Keep adjacent decisions one step away.

Protocol Buffers vs JSON GraphQL Schema vs JSON Best Data Format for APIs How to Convert ACCESSLOG to JSON
FAQ

Resolve the likely objections early.

What is the default format recommendation for this use case?

JSON is the recommended default format here.

How should teams validate this recommendation?

Use sample files and manifest endpoints to test compatibility and behavior before rollout.