Head-to-Head: Polly.JS vs JSON Server Analysis

@pollyjs/core

v6.0.6(about 1 year ago)

This package was last published over a year ago. It may not be actively maintained.Types definitions are bundled with the npm packageNumber of direct dependencies: 9Monthly npm downloads

@pollyjs/core is a powerful and flexible JavaScript library for recording, replaying, and stubbing HTTP interactions in tests. It allows developers to create reliable and deterministic tests by capturing and replaying network requests and responses. With support for various adapters and plugins, Polly.js can be easily integrated into different testing frameworks and environments.

Alternatives:
nock+
axios-mock-adapter+
miragejs+
msw+
fetch-mock+
pretender+
sinon+
intercept-stdout+
jest-mock+
testdouble+

Tags: javascripttestinghttpmockingnetwork

json-server

v1.0.0-beta.1(about 2 months ago)

This package is actively maintained.Types definitions are bundled with the npm packageNumber of direct dependencies: 12Monthly npm downloads

JSON Server is a simple and lightweight tool that allows you to quickly set up a REST API with CRUD operations using a JSON file as a data source. It is commonly used for prototyping, mocking APIs, and front-end development, providing a fast and easy way to simulate a backend server without the need for a full-fledged database. JSON Server supports various features like filtering, sorting, and pagination, making it versatile for different development scenarios.

Alternatives:
jsonplaceholder+
lowdb+
typicode+
fakerest+
jsonbox+
json-server-auth+
restana+
miragejs+
json-srv+
dyson+

Tags: jsonrest-apimockingprototypingdevelopment

Fight!

Popularity

Both @pollyjs/core and json-server are popular npm packages, but json-server has a wider adoption and larger community due to its simplicity and ease of use.

Functionality

@pollyjs/core is a powerful tool for recording, replaying, and stubbing HTTP requests in tests. It provides advanced features like request/response interception, request matching, and response modification. On the other hand, json-server is a lightweight mock server that allows you to quickly create a RESTful API based on a JSON file. It provides basic CRUD operations and supports query parameters and filtering.

Integration

Both packages can be easily integrated into your development workflow. @pollyjs/core is primarily used for testing purposes and can be integrated with popular testing frameworks like Jest and Mocha. json-server, on the other hand, can be used as a standalone server or integrated into your existing Node.js application.

Scalability

When it comes to scalability, @pollyjs/core is more suitable for complex testing scenarios where you need fine-grained control over HTTP requests. It allows you to create and manage multiple recordings and scenarios. json-server, on the other hand, is more suitable for small to medium-sized projects or prototyping, as it lacks advanced features like authentication, authorization, and database integration.

Performance

In terms of performance, @pollyjs/core adds some overhead due to its request interception and recording capabilities. It is recommended to use it primarily in development and testing environments. json-server, being a lightweight mock server, has minimal performance impact and can be used in production as well.

Documentation

Both packages have good documentation, but json-server has more extensive and beginner-friendly documentation. It provides clear examples and covers various use cases, making it easier for developers to get started.