Data Formatting
PHP Array to JSON Converter
Paste a PHP array or JSON and convert in either direction with one click.
The PHP Array to JSON Converter translates data between PHP array syntax and JSON. It supports nested arrays, objects, and common scalar types, and outputs formatted results ready to copy.
Converted results
Each output is formatted for readability and ready to copy.
What this tool does
The PHP Array to JSON Converter translates data between PHP array syntax and JSON. It supports nested arrays, objects, and common scalar types, and outputs formatted results ready to copy. This helps you move data between PHP backends and JavaScript or API tooling without manual edits.
When to use this tool
Use it during API development, migrations, or debugging when you need to inspect data in a different format. It also helps when comparing two outputs in Text Diff or cleaning input with Whitespace Cleaner before parsing.
How it works
The tool parses your input as either PHP or JSON, normalizes the data structure, and serializes it into the requested output format. It preserves nesting and key order where possible and formats the result for readability. All conversions happen locally in your browser.
Example use case
You receive a PHP config array from a legacy service and need a JSON payload for a frontend mock. Paste the array, convert to JSON, and copy the result into your API client. If the output looks wrong, run a diff against the original data structure to spot mismatches.
Use cases
- Convert a PHP config array into JSON for frontend use.
- Translate API mock data between PHP and JavaScript.
- Normalize payloads for integration tests.
Notes & limitations
The converter expects valid syntax. PHP arrays with complex expressions or runtime values may not parse. Similarly, JSON must use double quotes and valid syntax. This tool does not execute PHP code; it only reads data literals. Always validate output in your target runtime before deployment.
Associative arrays in PHP become objects in JSON, while numeric arrays become lists. If your PHP array mixes numeric and string keys, the output may not match your expectations. Consider normalizing the data structure before converting if you need strict JSON schema compatibility.
Some PHP arrays include trailing commas or comments that are not valid JSON. Remove those elements before converting. If you are unsure, paste smaller fragments and convert incrementally to isolate formatting issues.
