Hoppscotch vs Thunder Client: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between Hoppscotch and Thunder Client comes down to understanding what each tool does best. This comparison breaks down the key differences so you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs, not marketing claims.
Bottom line: Hoppscotch is our overall pick for API tools workflows. Pick Thunder Client if you need a free tier to start with.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Hoppscotch
Fast, lightweight API client for testing
Best for you if:
- • Hoppscotch is a free, open-source API development ecosystem
- • It provides a lightweight interface for testing REST, GraphQL, and WebSocket APIs
Thunder Client
Lightweight REST client for VS Code API testing
Best for you if:
- • Thunder Client is a lightweight REST API client for VS Code
- • It provides request testing with collections and environments inline
| At a Glance |  Hoppscotch |  Thunder Client |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | FreeFree tier available | FreeFree tier available |
Best For | API Tools | API Tools |
Rating | 4.9/5 | 4.3/5 |
Free plan | Yes | Yes |
Choose Hoppscotch or Thunder Client?
Choose Hoppscotch if
Fast, lightweight API client for testing
- Open source
- Self-hostable
- Real-time collaboration
Choose Thunder Client if
Lightweight REST client for VS Code API testing
- VS Code REST client
- Lightweight
- Free tier good
- Budget matters (Free vs Free)
| Feature | Hoppscotch | Thunder Client |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| User Rating | ★4.9/5 77 reviews | ★4.3/5 15 reviews |
| Categories | API ToolsDeveloper Tools | API ToolsIDE & Code Editors |
In-Depth Analysis
Hoppscotch
Fast, lightweight API client for testing
Strengths
- +Open source
- +Self-hostable
- +Real-time collaboration
Weaknesses
- -Less polished than Postman
Key features
Thunder Client
Lightweight REST client for VS Code API testing
Strengths
- +VS Code REST client
- +Lightweight
- +Free tier good
- +Active development
- +Good UI
Weaknesses
- -VS Code only
- -Limited features
- -Team features paid
- -Better alternatives exist
- -Feature gaps
Key features
Pricing: Hoppscotch vs Thunder Client
| Plan | Hoppscotch | Thunder Client |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | Free Free | Free Free |
| Tier 2 | $6 Organization | $3 month per user Starter |
| Tier 3 | N/A | $7 month per user Business |
| Tier 4 | N/A | $16 month per user Enterprise |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on Hoppscotch pricing and Thunder Client pricing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Hoppscotch
Want the highest-rated option?
Hoppscotch: 4.9/5 (77 reviews). Thunder Client: 4.3/5 (15 reviews).
Go with: Hoppscotch
Value user reviews?
Hoppscotch: 77 reviews (4.9/5). Thunder Client: 15 reviews (4.3/5).
Go with: Hoppscotch
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Both are freemium. Pricing won't help you decide here.
What's your use case?
Both are api tools tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Hoppscotch is rated higher: 4.9/5 vs 4.3/5.
Key Takeaways
Hoppscotch
- Higher user rating: 4.9/5 vs 4.3/5
- Larger review base (77 reviews)
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Thunder Client
- Choose if you want lightweight REST client for VS Code API testing
The Bottom Line
Hoppscotch is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Hoppscotch or Thunder Client better?
Hoppscotch is rated in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are Hoppscotch and Thunder Client used for?
Hoppscotch: Fast, lightweight API client for testing. Thunder Client: Lightweight REST client for VS Code API testing.
What does Hoppscotch cost vs Thunder Client?
Hoppscotch is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Thunder Client is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.