Format comparison
CSV vs JSON
CSV is a flat table; JSON can nest objects and arrays. Convert cleanly only when JSON is an array of uniform objects.
Decision table
| Feature | CSV | JSON |
|---|---|---|
| Shape | Flat table | Nested trees OK |
| Best for | Spreadsheets / ETL | APIs / apps |
| Types | All text (inferred) | Native JSON types |
| Multiple tables | No | Yes via structure |
| Human sheet UX | Excellent | Poor without conversion |
Choose CSV when…
- Excel/Sheets workflows
- Database import
- Open data tables
Choose JSON when…
- API responses
- Nested configs
- App state interchange
Verdict
Use CSV for analysts and sheets. Use JSON for APIs and nested state.
Convert between them
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