Free JSONPath Expression Tester (Curious Concept) Alternative
The JSONPath Expression Tester from Curious Concept is one of the earliest online JSONPath tools, providing a PHP-based evaluator for testing JSONPath expressions. It allows developers to choose between different PHP JSONPath implementations, which can be useful for testing compatibility across different library versions. While the tool has been reliable for many years, its interface and feature set reflect an older generation of web tools. Fixie's JSON Path Explorer offers a modern alternative with live result highlighting, a cleaner interface, and JavaScript-based evaluation that runs entirely client-side.
Try JSON Path Explorer Free →JSON Path Explorer vs JSONPath Expression Tester (Curious Concept)
| Feature | Fixie JSON Path Explorer | JSONPath Expression Tester (Curious Concept) |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Free forever | Free |
| Signup Required | No | No |
| Processing Method | Client-side JavaScript | Server-side PHP |
| Live Result Highlighting | Yes (matches highlighted in JSON) | No (plain text results) |
| Interface Design | Modern, responsive design | Older interface style |
| Syntax Cheat Sheet | Built-in reference with examples | Limited documentation |
| Privacy | 100% client-side (no data sent) | JSON sent to server for evaluation |
Why Choose Fixie?
JSONPath Expression Tester from Curious Concept has been a reliable resource for developers since the early days of JSONPath adoption. The tool offers a unique feature: you can select between different PHP JSONPath library implementations (Stefan Goessner's original or FlowCommunications' fork), which is useful for testing compatibility if you're building a PHP application that uses one of those libraries. Results are returned as plain text, making it easy to copy and paste into your code.
The main limitations are architectural. Because the tool uses server-side PHP processing, your JSON data and queries are sent to the server for evaluation. This introduces latency and may be a concern when working with sensitive data. The interface reflects the tool's age — it's functional but lacks modern features like syntax highlighting in the editor, live result updates, or visual feedback showing which parts of your JSON matched.
Fixie's JSON Path Explorer takes a modern, client-side approach. All processing happens in your browser using JavaScript, so your data never leaves your machine. Results update live as you type, and matched elements are highlighted directly in the original JSON structure. The built-in syntax cheat sheet provides quick reference without leaving the tool. Both tools are free and don't require accounts. Curious Concept's tool is still useful if you specifically need to test PHP JSONPath library compatibility. For general JSONPath testing, especially with sensitive data or large documents, Fixie's client-side approach is faster and more private.
How to Use JSON Path Explorer
Step 1: Go to the JSON Path Explorer
Visit fixie.tools/json-path — no server-side processing, no signup required.
Step 2: Paste Your JSON
Add your JSON document to the editor. Everything processes in your browser — nothing is sent to a server, so it's safe for sensitive data.
Step 3: Write Your JSONPath Query
Enter your JSONPath expression and see results update in real-time. Matched elements are highlighted in the JSON, so you can see exactly what your query selected.
Step 4: Reference the Syntax Guide
Click the cheat sheet tab for a quick reference of JSONPath operators and patterns with examples. No need to search external documentation.