Step CI
Claim this toolOpen-source API testing framework for security, performance, and load testing.
Free plan available, paid tiers aboveVisit WebsiteFreemiumVisit Website
Tracked since2026
The Bottom Line
- Price
- Free plan available, paid tiers above. Compare plans
Key facts
- Open-source API testing framework for various API types.
- Supports security, performance, and load testing.
- Configurable with YAML, JSON, or JavaScript, and integrates with CI/CD.
Pros
- Open-source and free base runner and CLI
- Highly flexible with support for multiple API types and configuration languages
- Enables comprehensive testing (security, performance, load)
- Seamless integration with existing CI/CD pipelines
- Allows for complex, data-driven test scenarios
Cons
- Custom support and advanced features require a paid plan
- May require some technical knowledge for setup and advanced configurations
What is Step CI?
Step CI is an open-source API test automation framework designed for developers and QA engineers to automate API testing, including security, performance, and load testing. It allows users to configure tests easily using YAML, JSON, or JavaScript, and supports a wide range of API types such as REST, GraphQL, gRPC, and SOAP.
The framework enables multi-step test workflows by chaining requests, capturing data, and using variables. It supports data-driven testing with the ability to use existing test data or generate mock data. Step CI is built for performance, allowing parallel test execution, and offers secure testing capabilities on local networks and CI/CD environments. It integrates with popular tools and platforms like Node.js, Docker, GitHub Actions, GitLab CI/CD, and Jest.
Step CI is ideal for teams looking for a flexible, powerful, and open-source solution to ensure the reliability, security, and performance of their APIs throughout the development lifecycle. Its language-agnostic configuration and broad API support make it a versatile tool for various testing needs.
Available on: Web, macOS, Linux, Windows
Key Features
- Automated API testing
- Security testing
- Performance testing
- Load testing
- Language-agnostic configuration (YAML, JSON, JavaScript)
- Support for REST, GraphQL, gRPC, SOAP, tRPC APIs
- Multi-step test workflows with captures and variables
- Data-driven testing (real and mock data)
Pricing Plans
Pricing checked Oct 4, 2026
| Plan | Price | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Open-Source | $0 / month |
+3 moreShow less
|
| Support Plan | Custom |
+4 moreShow less
|
Is Step CI worth the price?
Great value
The pricing for Step CI is very generous, offering a fully functional open-source version for free.
The 'Support Plan' is custom, indicating enterprise-level support and features, which is standard for open-source projects. This structure is best for individual developers and small teams who can leverage the free tier, and larger enterprises needing dedicated support.
Reviews
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Step CI FAQ
How does Step CI facilitate comprehensive API testing?
Step CI allows users to automate API testing across various domains, including security, performance, and load testing. It supports multi-step test workflows by chaining requests and capturing data, enabling thorough validation of API behavior.
Which teams benefit most from using Step CI?
Step CI is ideal for development and QA teams seeking a flexible, powerful, and open-source solution to ensure the reliability, security, and performance of their APIs. Its language-agnostic configuration and broad API support make it versatile for diverse testing needs.
How is Step CI priced?
Step CI offers a free tier that includes the base runner and CLI. Paid plans are available for users requiring more extensive usage and advanced features, including custom support.
Can Step CI be integrated into existing development workflows?
Yes, Step CI is designed for seamless integration with existing CI/CD pipelines and popular developer tools. It supports platforms like Docker, GitHub Actions, GitLab CI/CD, and Node.js.
What kind of APIs can Step CI test?
Step CI supports a wide range of API types, including REST, GraphQL, gRPC, and SOAP. This broad compatibility allows it to be a versatile tool for various API testing requirements.
How does Step CI compare to k6 for API load testing?
Step CI offers an open-source framework for security, performance, and load testing, configurable with YAML, JSON, or JavaScript, and integrates with CI/CD pipelines. While k6 also focuses on load testing, Step CI provides broader support for various API types and comprehensive testing across security and performance.
What are the main trade-offs when choosing Step CI?
While Step CI offers a robust open-source solution, custom support and advanced features are part of its paid plans. Users might also need some technical knowledge for initial setup and configuring more complex scenarios.
Source: stepci.com