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Bruno: Fast and Git-friendly open-source API client (Postman alternative) (usebruno.com)

1538 points by ulrischa · 890 days ago · 400 comments on HN

Article summary

Bruno is an open-source API client that stores collections as plain text files in Git, allowing for local-first development and collaboration. It is designed to be a lightweight and secure alternative to cloud-based API clients like Postman. Bruno's features include Git-friendly project structure, offline work, and performance. The tool is gaining popularity among developers who value simplicity, control, and security.

Main themes

  • API clients
  • local-first development
  • security and privacy
  • GUI vs command-line tools
  • open-source software
  • vendor lock-in
  • data control
  • collaboration and versioning

What commenters say

  • Some users prefer native GUI applications over Electron-based ones due to performance and security concerns.
  • The need for login functionality and cloud saves in API clients is questioned by some commenters.
  • Automation and scripting can be used to overcome the limitations of using curl for API testing.
  • GUI solutions like Postman and Bruno have their own advantages and disadvantages compared to using command-line tools like curl.
  • The importance of data privacy and security is highlighted by the preference for local-first development tools like Bruno.
  • Some users have had negative experiences with cloud-based API clients, such as data loss and forced logins.
  • The use of open-source and locally stored solutions is seen as a way to avoid vendor lock-in and ensure data control.
  • There is a trade-off between the convenience of GUI solutions and the flexibility and customizability of command-line tools.