I'm building a frontend app and need mock APIs for development, what should I use?

For frontend development, the best choice depends on how “real” you want the API to feel and whether you need persistence.

Good options

1. MSW (Mock Service Worker)

• Best if you want to mock network requests in your frontend app itself.
• Intercepts fetch/XHR at the browser level.
• Great for development and testing.
• Lets you keep your app code calling real API endpoints.

Use this if: you want realistic integration without changing app code much.

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2. JSON Server

• Turns a db.json file into a quick REST API.
• Super easy to start.
• Supports basic CRUD out of the box.
• Good for prototypes and demos.

Use this if: you want a fast fake backend with simple REST endpoints.

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3. Mirage JS

• Built specifically for frontend mocking.
• Can simulate routes, delays, and complex scenarios.
• Useful for SPAs and offline-like workflows.

Use this if: you want more control than JSON Server and don’t mind a bit more setup.

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4. Mockoon

• Desktop app for creating mock APIs visually.
• Good for teams and quick endpoint setup.
• Can export environments or run locally.

Use this if: you prefer a GUI over code.

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5. Postman Mock Server

• Handy if you already use Postman collections.
• Easy for shared mocked endpoints.
• Less ideal for highly dynamic behavior.

Use this if: your team already uses Postman heavily.

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My recommendation

• For most frontend apps: MSW
• For quick CRUD demos: JSON Server
• For more complex behavior: Mirage JS
• For non-coders / team-friendly setup: Mockoon

If you want, I can suggest the best one based on your stack (React/Vue/Angular/Next.js) and whether you need persistent data, auth simulation, or pagination.