Stoplight vs Postman: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Stoplight and Postman 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.
By Toolradar Team · Last updated February 28, 2026 · Methodology
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Stoplight
API design platform
Best for you if:
- • You need ui/ux design features specifically
- • Stoplight is an API design platform for building APIs collaboratively
- • It provides visual API design, documentation, and governance tools
Postman
API platform for building and using APIs
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.9/10 vs 8.3/10)
- • You need api tools features specifically
- • Comprehensive platform for API development and testing
- • Collections organize requests with documentation and tests
| At a Glance |  Stoplight |  Postman |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | UI/UX Design | API Tools |
Rating | 83/100 | 89/100 |
| Feature | Stoplight | Postman |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 83 | 89 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | UI/UX DesignPrototyping | API ToolsDocumentation |
How Stoplight and Postman Compare
Stoplight
API design platform
Free tier available · 83/100 score
Postman
API platform for building and using APIs
Free tier available · 89/100 score
Stoplight is a ui/ux design tool. Postman is in api tools.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Stoplight
Want the highest-rated option?
Stoplight: 83/100. Postman: 89/100.
Go with: Postman
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Postman
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?
Stoplight is a ui/ux design tool. Postman is in api tools. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Postman scores higher: 89/100 vs 83/100.
Key Takeaways
Postman
- Higher score: 89/100 vs 83
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Stoplight
- Better fit for ui/ux design
The Bottom Line
Postman (89/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Stoplight or Postman better?
Postman scores 89/100 in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are Stoplight and Postman used for?
Stoplight: API design platform. Postman: API platform for building and using APIs.
What does Stoplight cost vs Postman?
Stoplight is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Postman is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.