YAML vs JSON: Differences, Use Cases, and Conversion Guide
Compare YAML and JSON formats side by side. Learn syntax differences, when to use which, and how to convert between them for Docker, Kubernetes, and configs.
What are YAML and JSON?
YAML and JSON are both data serialization formats for structured data. JSON is the standard for APIs and web data exchange. YAML is a superset of JSON that focuses on human readability. If you work with Docker, Kubernetes, or CI/CD pipelines, you encounter both regularly.
Syntax Comparison
# YAML
name: Impeccify
type: web-agency
services:
- UI/UX Design
- Frontend Development
- Backend Development
pricing:
landing-page: 295
business-website: 1500// JSON (same data)
{
"name": "Impeccify",
"type": "web-agency",
"services": [
"UI/UX Design",
"Frontend Development",
"Backend Development"
],
"pricing": {
"landing-page": 295,
"business-website": 1500
}
}Key Differences
| Feature | YAML | JSON |
|---|---|---|
| Readability | Very readable, minimal syntax | More verbose with brackets |
| Comments | Supports comments (#) | No comment support |
| Multi-line strings | Native support | Requires escape characters |
| Parsing speed | Slower | Faster |
| API usage | Rarely used | Universal standard |
| Config files | Very common | Common but less preferred |
| Browser support | Requires library | Native JSON.parse() |
When to Use YAML
- Docker Compose files
- Kubernetes manifests
- CI/CD pipelines (GitHub Actions, GitLab CI)
- Configuration files that humans edit frequently
- Any file where comments are needed
When to Use JSON
- REST API request and response bodies
- package.json and npm configuration
- Data exchange between services
- When you need the fastest parsing
Common YAML Gotchas
- Indentation uses spaces only, never tabs
- The value NO is interpreted as boolean false. Quote it: "NO"
- Colons in values need quoting: title: "Error: failed"
- Version numbers like 3.10 can be read as 3.1 (a float). Quote it.
Free YAML / JSON Converter
Convert between YAML and JSON instantly with syntax validation.
Try it freeRelated Articles
Linux File Permissions Explained: The Visual Chmod Guide
Master Linux file permissions with this visual guide. Learn chmod notation, permission types, common permission sets, and use our interactive calculator.
DeveloperHow to Convert CSV Data to SQL INSERT Statements
Step-by-step guide to converting CSV files into SQL INSERT statements. Covers data types, escaping, bulk inserts, and a free automated converter tool.
DeveloperNumber Base Conversion: Binary, Octal, Decimal, and Hexadecimal
Master number system conversions with clear explanations and examples. Learn to convert between binary, octal, decimal, and hexadecimal with ease.