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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
Test this recommendation JSON samples 22 files Manifest Compare PROTO
Recommendation

Recommendation

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

Related Decisions

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

FAQ

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.