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Discussion on: No Need Postman, Your VSCode is Enough for Testing Your API 😎⚑

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pzelnip profile image
Adam Parkin

Thunder Client does look cool, but just an FYI: it is not open source (which is of course also true of Postman). This matters around API testing tools as if (for example) you're hitting API endpoints which require auth, then any credentials you supply will go through that tool, so you have to trust that the authors/maintainers of that tool don't do anything questionable with those credentials. If the source is open, then you have the ability to examine the code to help alleviate this concern.

A similar extension is REST Client: marketplace.visualstudio.com/items... which is open source (github.com/Huachao/vscode-restclient).

Note that I'm not saying that Thunder Client is bad, or that REST Client is better, just that for my use cases REST Client is more aligned with my values (I personally don't use VS Code extensions unless they are open source), so sharing for others who would like similar options.

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lynn_mikami_e94e5b9ad7daf profile image
Lynn Mikami

Thank you for sharing your insights on API testing tools! Your comment raises an important point about the significance of open-source software, especially when dealing with sensitive data like API credentials. It's commendable that you're considering the security implications of these tools.

While Thunder Client and Postman are indeed popular choices, it's great that you've highlighted REST Client as an open-source alternative. This information can be valuable for developers who prioritize transparency and code auditability in their toolset.

Speaking of API testing tools, I'd like to add another option to the mix: APIDog. This versatile tool offers a user-friendly interface for API development, testing, and documentation. Some key features of APIDog include:

  • Intuitive request builder
  • Automated testing capabilities
  • Real-time collaboration features
  • Comprehensive API documentation generation

APIDog strikes a balance between functionality and ease of use, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced developers. While it's always important to consider the open-source aspect, APIDog's robust security measures and regular updates make it a reliable choice for many teams.

Ultimately, the choice of API testing tool depends on individual needs and preferences. It's great to see developers like yourself encouraging thoughtful consideration of these factors. Keep up the excellent work in promoting informed decision-making in our developer community!