Side by side
OpenReq vs Thunder Client
Both stand on api clients. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan ExtensionSelf-hostedWeb+1
OpenReq offers broad API test workflows and documentation sharing without subscription tiers. The Windows client’s backend requirement and the lack of formal support channels are important considerations.
Visit OpenReq
Free plan ExtensionLinuxMac+1
Choose Thunder Client if you want an API client inside your IDE, with local data storage and graphical response validation. Teams needing encrypted environment values or secret manager connections need Enterprise. Starter and Business have monthly local collection-run limits per user.
Visit Thunder ClientThe facts
| OpenReq | Thunder Client | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Extension, Self-hosted, Web, Windows | Extension, Linux, Mac, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Starter: $3 per user a month |
| Plans published | 2 | 4 |
| Maker | Not published | Thunder Client |
| Website | openreq.app | thunderclient.com |
| On api clients | #10 of 38 | #14 of 38 |
OpenReq: what it does well
- Supports HTTP, WebSocket, and GraphQL requests.
- API testing has no stated usage limits.
- Shared documentation links need no viewer account.
- Generates code in seven listed languages.
- Local Ollama features do not require a cloud API key.
What to know first
- Windows desktop client requires a separately hosted backend.
- No formal support channels are given.
- No security certifications are stated.
Thunder Client: what it does well
- Works inside VS Code and JetBrains IDEs.
- Validates responses through a GUI without scripts.
- Stores requests and client data locally, with no cloud sync.
- Collections can be shared through a Git repository.
- Enterprise connects to Azure Key Vault and AWS Secrets Manager.
What to know first
- The free plan is for VS Code.
- Free, Starter, and Business store environment values in plain text.
- A 14-day trial is available only with a business email address.
Alternatives to OpenReq Alternatives to Thunder Client The whole list