Top 5 VSCode API Debugging Extensions for 2024
This article highlights the top five VSCode API debugging tools, each providing unique features to streamline API testing and development workflows.
In software development, API debugging is an essential process. Visual Studio Code (VSCode) provides a wealth of extensions that enable efficient API debugging. Here are the top five recommended API debugging extensions for 2024.
1. EchoAPI for VS Code

EchoAPI integrates the functionalities of Postman, Swagger, and Insomnia into an all-in-one solution. It allows for intuitive API schema design, request sending, and response visualization.
Features
- Free to Use: Offers advanced features at no cost.
- Lightweight: No installation needed, works instantly.
- Automated Testing Support: Provides tools for automated API testing.
- Collaboration Features: Supports manual bidirectional data synchronization.
2. REST Client

REST Client is a simple extension that enables sending and receiving HTTP requests directly within VSCode.
Features
- Lightweight: Runs smoothly with many features.
- Request History: Easily re-execute past requests.
- Response Highlighting: Displays responses in an easy-to-read format.
3. Thunder Client

Thunder Client is a lightweight and responsive extension designed for developers.
Features
- Offline Mode: Available without an internet connection.
- Tab Management: Organizes multiple requests in tabs.
- Integrated Testing: Provides environment-based test integration.
4. Postman for VSCode

Postman is an open-source API testing tool compatible with VSCode.
Features
- Open Source: Freely customizable source code.
- Privacy-Friendly: Features to prevent data leaks.
- Real-Time Functionality: Supports WebSocket and GraphQL.
5. API Tester

API Tester supports efficient API management.
Features
- Extensive Export Options: Export data to CSV or Excel.
- Scripting Capability: Advanced testing with user-defined scripts.
- Team Collaboration: Easily share data with team members.
Product Comparison Table
| Extension Name | Free/Paid | Key Features | Available Platforms |
|---|---|---|---|
| EchoAPI for VS Code | Free | Comprehensive API management, collaboration | VSCode |
| REST Client | Free | HTTP requests, history management | VSCode |
| Thunder Client | Free | Offline support, integrated testing | VSCode |
| Postman | Open Source | Privacy features, real-time support | VSCode |
| API Tester | Free/Paid | Export, extensive testing | VSCode |
These extensions support API debugging tailored to developers' needs. Leverage the unique features of each to find the tool that best fits your development environment.