Formatting parses valid JSON and serialises it with consistent whitespace. Minifying removes that optional whitespace. Neither action changes strings, numbers, booleans, null values or array order. Optional key sorting creates a new output ordering; the source input remains untouched.
Working with large files
Processing happens in a separate browser thread so controls remain usable. Your device still needs enough memory to hold the original text, parsed data and output.
Common errors
Why JSON will not parse
Property names and strings require double quotes.
Trailing commas are not allowed.
Comments are not part of JSON.
Backslashes inside strings must form valid escapes.
undefined, NaN and Infinity are not JSON values.
The workbench reports the browser’s syntax error and a line and column when the runtime exposes enough position information.
Coming later
Related tools
JSON to CSV
Unavailable · future tool
JSON Diff
Unavailable · future tool
JSON Schema
Unavailable · future tool
FAQs
Questions, answered
Is my JSON uploaded?
No. Formatting, validation, files, copying and downloads stay inside your browser.
Does sorting change my input?
No. The editable input is never silently repaired or replaced. Sorting only affects generated output.
Can JSON begin with an array or primitive?
Yes. Valid root values include objects, arrays, strings, numbers, booleans and null.
Is JSON Central free?
This formatter is available without an account or payment.