Thunder Client vs Apidog: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Thunder Client and Apidog 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:
Thunder Client
REST API client for VS Code
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.2/10 vs 7.8/10)
- • You need ide & code editors features specifically
- • Thunder Client is a lightweight REST API client for VS Code
- • It provides request testing with collections and environments inline
Apidog
API design, testing, and documentation in one platform
Best for you if:
- • You need api tools features specifically
- • Apidog is an all-in-one API development platform combining design, debugging, and testing
- • It supports API documentation, mock servers, and automated testing in one tool
| At a Glance |  Thunder Client |  Apidog |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | IDE & Code Editors | API Tools |
Rating | 82/100 | 78/100 |
| Feature | Thunder Client | Apidog |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 82 | 78 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | IDE & Code EditorsAPI Tools | API ToolsDocumentation |
How Thunder Client and Apidog Compare
Thunder Client
REST API client for VS Code
Free tier available · 82/100 score
Apidog
API design, testing, and documentation in one platform
Free tier available · 78/100 score
Thunder Client is a ide & code editors tool. Apidog is in api tools.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Thunder Client
Want the highest-rated option?
Thunder Client: 82/100. Apidog: 78/100.
Go with: Thunder Client
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Thunder Client
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?
Thunder Client is a ide & code editors tool. Apidog is in api tools. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Thunder Client scores higher: 82/100 vs 78/100.
Key Takeaways
Thunder Client
- Higher score: 82/100 vs 78
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Apidog
- Better fit for api tools
The Bottom Line
Thunder Client (82/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Thunder Client or Apidog better?
Thunder Client scores 82/100 in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are Thunder Client and Apidog used for?
Thunder Client: REST API client for VS Code. Apidog: API design, testing, and documentation in one platform.
What does Thunder Client cost vs Apidog?
Thunder Client is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Apidog is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.