XML vs JSON: Which Data Format Should You Use?

Compare XML and JSON for APIs, configs, and data exchange, including size, nesting, and tooling support.

File Size

JSON is typically 30-50% smaller because there are no closing tags <cite>[4]</cite>.

Schema

XML has XSD schemas for strict validation. JSON uses JSON Schema, less widely enforced.

Best For

XML: documents, SOAP APIs, configs with metadata. JSON: web APIs, JavaScript-heavy stacks.

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