As software development processes become more agile and lean towards continuous integration and delivery, quick feedback has become essential. API testing comes into play here, being faster and more reliable compared to UI testing. In this guide, we delve into some of the best free and open-source API testing tools for 2023.
What is API?
An API (Application Programming Interface) is a specification that acts as an interface for software components. API testing, often referred to as headless testing, comprises bypassing the UI and directly communicating with an application via its API.
Factors to Consider When Choosing API Testing Tools
The right API testing tools should allow you to use one test script for multiple purposes, including API load or stress performance testing and security testing. Here are a couple of top-notch free API testing tools to consider.
Tool #1: Postman
Postman, initially a Chrome browser plugin, has transitioned into a robust tool compatible with Mac and Windows. Its merit lies in its ability to set up all headers and cookies your API expects and validate them when returned.
Pros
- Great for both automated and exploratory testing.
- Numerous integrations.
- No need to learn a new language.
Cons
- Some features have become paid.
Tool #2: Karate
Karate stands out due to its human-like syntax, which ensures high maintainability. It’s well suited to non-programmers and requires no Java knowledge for test writing.
Tool #3: SoapUI
SoapUI is an open-source tool that lets you create Groovy custom code and complex scenarios, among other things. Its Pro version is more user-friendly and includes extra functionality.
Tool #4: HttpMaster
HttpMaster is designed for automating testing of websites and services. It’s notably useful for testing RESTful web services and API applications, also allowing API response monitoring.
Tool #5: Rest-Assured
Rest-Assured is an open-source tool that simplifies the manual testing of REST services. It eliminates boiler-plate code and supports the BDD Given/When/Then syntax.
Other Tools to Consider
Several other tools you should check out include RoboHydra Server for API integration testing, hippie-swagger for validating all aspects of a swagger file, PyRestTest, a python-based REST testing tool, and Katalon Studio, an all-in-one test automation solution.
API Testing Using Playwright and Cypress
While these tools are primarily used for browser-based end-to-end testing of web applications, they can be used for API tests. For instance, Playwright can be coupled with the “axios” library to make API requests.
Taking a Look Forward
With 2023 around the corner, the landscape of SOAP and REST API test tools is continuously evolving. Expect this list to grow as more efficient and dynamic tools are brought to market.
Tags:
- #APITestingTools
- #OpenSource
- #2023
- #SoftwareTesting