Hoppscotch vs Thunder Client: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between Hoppscotch and Thunder Client? Both are popular api development tools. Below we compare them on pricing, free tiers, features, and pros & cons so you can pick the right fit for your stack.
Quick verdict
Both Hoppscotch and Thunder Client are strong api development choices. The right pick comes down to your specific feature needs, existing stack, and team preferences.
Hoppscotch vs Thunder Client — Side by Side
| Hoppscotch | Thunder Client | |
|---|---|---|
| Category | API Development | API Development |
| Pricing | Free | Free · paid from $3/mo |
| Starting price | Free tier available | Free tier available |
| Free tier | ||
| Best for | API Development — api-client, graphql | API Development — api-client, testing |
Pros & Cons
- No install (runs in browser)
- Fast & lightweight
- Open-source
- Multi-protocol
- Fewer advanced features than Postman
- Team features need self-host
- Runs inside VS Code / JetBrains
- Lightweight and fast
- Cheap paid tiers
- Good for solo developers
- Free tier limited to non-commercial use
- Fewer features than full platforms
- Key features now behind paywall
Choose Hoppscotch if…
you want a free tier to start, and Hoppscotch Lightweight, open-source browser-based API client for REST, GraphQL, and WebSocket — fast and free.
Hoppscotch review & pricingChoose Thunder Client if…
you want a free tier to start, and Thunder Client Lightweight REST API client built into VS Code and JetBrains — test APIs without leaving your editor.
Thunder Client review & pricingFrequently Asked Questions
Is Hoppscotch better than Thunder Client?⌄
Both Hoppscotch and Thunder Client are strong api development choices. The right pick comes down to your specific feature needs, existing stack, and team preferences.
What is the difference between Hoppscotch and Thunder Client?⌄
Hoppscotch — Lightweight, open-source browser-based API client for REST, GraphQL, and WebSocket — fast and free. Thunder Client — Lightweight REST API client built into VS Code and JetBrains — test APIs without leaving your editor. Both are api development tools; the comparison table above breaks down pricing, free tiers, and what each is best for.
Hoppscotch vs Thunder Client: which is cheaper?⌄
Hoppscotch pricing: Free. Thunder Client pricing: Free · paid from $3/mo. Confirm current pricing on each tool's official site, as plans change.
See more options in our guide to the best api development tools for startups.
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