YAML vs. JSON: Which Data Format Should You Choose?

When talking about programming languages, there is usually a common stereotype that JSON is an ideal choice for data serialization. It is extremely popular and is an awesome variant for securely transmitting the structured data.

However, what about other available options, for instance, YAML? Ain’t Markup Language might be a better choice in some case scenarios. So, the choice of the best format fully depends on what it is used for and who is using it.  

Understanding JSON

JSON is a lightweight format that is needed for the exchange of information between various systems. This format is extremely easy for human beings to interpret because it is done in the text-based form.

YAML and JSON were created at approximately the same time in 2001. Prior to the development of these more lightweight languages, an older format was mainly used, and it is called XML or Extensible Markup.

Lots of businesses prefer to use JSON, but this format doesn’t suit all the user case scenarios. This data transfer format is mainly needed for the transmission and serialization of structured information. This doesn’t relate to the information in storage.

JSON is mainly needed for working with objects, numbers, arrays, and strings. While other types of data function with other formats.

Exploring YAML

The major distinction between YAML and other formats is that it is more readable. Because of the usage of natural language, lots of IT professionals relate this format to one that is easier to learn. Both JSON and YAML were created in the same period. However, with YAML, there are more data types to work with, and despite some complexities, the syntax will still be readable.

In case your IT experts are okay with the usage of Python, then YAML is really similar, and there won’t be any huge challenges with its usage.

YAML is used for stored data as well as for file configuration where information has been transferred. Moreover, this format can work with more data types when compared with JSON. Except for the standard strings and numbers, the format can also work with null values, timestamps, dates, Boolean, and other types.  

JSON vs. YAML: Which One Should You Choose?

Various data formats are necessary for different situations and user cases, so you should clearly understand your requirements before making a choice. The data type and syntax that the team was mainly working with are extremely important. For instance, in case your IT professionals used JavaScript, then JSON implementation will be the fairly easy choice.

Start with understanding your needs, and in the next paragraph, we will share use cases specifically for YAML and JSON.

Common Use Cases for JSON

Here are the common scenarios when JSON is your ideal choice:

• If you are searching for an easy adopting and learning format. The changes for the teams that have already used JavaScript can be way easier because experts are already aware of the used syntax.
• Ease of validation. With YAML, the situation might be challenging because this format uses spaces for the structure creation. This means additional unnecessary space might lead to some issues with the code.
• Security. A huge benefit of JSON is that it is way more secure than other options.
• Compact. Because of the compactness of JSON, it is faster in terms of parse.
• Ability to connect to other systems. JSON is an awesome choice for easy data interchange between systems.
•  API data exchange. This format is very popular in APIs so the data can be easily exchanged between the client and server.

Typical Applications of YAML

YAML can be a great choice if you are prioritizing:

• Dealing with the diversity of tasks. This format is ideal in case your team is working with several types of data, requires a format for transferring/storing of data, and needs to leave some comments.
• Dealing with several types of data. YAML supports various types of data, including arrays, lists, and other complex structures of information.
• Usage of natural language. Because of the usage of natural language, it is really simple to learn the syntax.
• Allows commenting, which is impossible with JSON.
• API configuration. YAML is regularly used for the configuration of files in APIs.

Final Thoughts: The Value of Both JSON and YAML

There is no right or wrong choice when we are talking about the formats; there are only variants that suit your needs and those that don’t. If talking about JSON, it is an ideal variant for the users that require security, ease of usage, and information interchange between the systems. Moreover, it is a fantastic option for those who prioritize simplicity.

As for YAML, it is very readable, versatile, and can deal with some complex types of data. That means ideal case scenarios for this format relate to the management of the different data structures.

The final decision should be based on the specific requirements of the workflows, the experience of the IT team, and other priorities.