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JSON to YAML Converter

Convert JSON to YAML online free. Transform JSON data into human-readable YAML configuration format with proper indentation.

How to Convert JSON to YAML

  • Paste your JSON data into the input field
  • Click "Convert to YAML" to transform the data
  • JSON objects become YAML nested structures with key: value pairs
  • JSON arrays become YAML lists with dash notation
  • Strings, numbers, and booleans are properly formatted
  • Proper indentation makes the output highly readable
  • Copy the YAML output or download it as a file
  • Use the output in configuration files, Docker Compose, Kubernetes, etc.

Frequently Asked Questions About JSON to YAML Conversion

What is YAML and why use it?

YAML ("YAML Ain't Markup Language") is a human-readable data format commonly used for configuration files. It's less cluttered than JSON and easier to read, especially for complex configurations.

Where is YAML commonly used?

YAML is widely used in Docker Compose files, Kubernetes manifests, Ansible playbooks, GitHub Actions workflows, CircleCI configuration, and application config files (Spring Boot, Node.js, Python, etc.).

How are JSON arrays converted to YAML?

JSON arrays become YAML lists using the dash (-) notation. Each array element is prefixed with a dash and proper indentation, creating a clear list structure.

What about special characters in YAML?

Special characters and multi-line strings are properly quoted and escaped. The converter handles colons, hashes, and other YAML special characters correctly.

Can I edit the YAML output?

Yes! While the converter output is read-only in the tool, you can copy it and edit it in any text editor. YAML is designed to be human-friendly and editable.

Is my data secure when converting?

Completely secure! All JSON to YAML conversion happens entirely in your browser using JavaScript. Your data never leaves your computer and is never sent to any server.

About JSON to YAML Conversion

Our JSON to YAML converter transforms JSON data into human-readable YAML (YAML Ain't Markup Language) format. YAML is widely used for configuration files and is more readable than JSON for humans. All conversion happens entirely in your browser for complete privacy.

YAML is the preferred format for many modern DevOps tools and configuration systems including Docker Compose, Kubernetes, Ansible, GitHub Actions, and CI/CD pipelines. Its clean syntax without braces and commas makes it ideal for human editing.

Key Features

  • Convert JSON objects to YAML key-value pairs
  • Transform JSON arrays to YAML list notation (dash syntax)
  • Proper indentation (2 or 4 spaces) for nested structures
  • Automatic quote escaping for special characters
  • Support for all JSON data types (strings, numbers, booleans, null)
  • Nested object and array conversion
  • Clean, readable output format
  • Download YAML files directly
  • Copy to clipboard functionality
  • 100% client-side processing for complete privacy

Why Use YAML?

Human Readability

YAML is easier to read and write than JSON due to less syntax noise and cleaner structure.

DevOps Standard

Industry standard for Docker, Kubernetes, Ansible, and CI/CD configuration files.

Configuration Files

Preferred format for application configs in modern frameworks and cloud platforms.

Comments Support

YAML natively supports comments, unlike JSON, for better documentation.

Common Use Cases

  • Docker Compose: Convert JSON configs to docker-compose.yml files
  • Kubernetes: Generate deployment, service, and config YAML manifests
  • CI/CD Pipelines: Create GitHub Actions, GitLab CI, CircleCI configs
  • Ansible Playbooks: Convert JSON task definitions to YAML playbooks
  • Application Config: Transform JSON settings to YAML config files
  • OpenAPI/Swagger: Convert JSON API specs to YAML format
  • Spring Boot: Generate application.yml from JSON properties
  • Cloud Formation: Create AWS CloudFormation YAML templates

JSON vs YAML Comparison

FeatureJSONYAML
Human ReadabilityGoodExcellent
Syntax ComplexityModerate (braces, commas)Simple (indentation)
CommentsNot supportedNative support (#)
Best ForAPIs, data exchangeConfig files, DevOps

Conversion Best Practices

  • Validate JSON First: Ensure valid JSON before converting to avoid errors
  • Choose Indentation: Use consistent indentation (2 or 4 spaces)
  • Add Comments: Manually add YAML comments after conversion for documentation
  • Multi-line Strings: Consider using YAML's multi-line string operators
  • Review Output: Check converted YAML for proper formatting
  • Test Config: Validate YAML in target tool before deployment

Learn About YAML Format

YAML (YAML Ain't Markup Language) is a human-friendly data serialization language commonly used for configuration files and data exchange. YAML uses indentation to represent structure, making it clean and easy to read.

YAML Resources