Convert to JSON

PHP Input

Paste a PHP array (e.g. array('a','b') or ['a','b'])

JSON Output

Convert to JSON Tool

Seamlessly convert between PHP arrays and JSON format. Perfect for developers migrating code, testing APIs, or transforming data between backend and frontend systems.

Features

PHP to JSON

Convert PHP arrays and objects to valid JSON format instantly

JSON to PHP

Transform JSON data into PHP array syntax with short or long notation

Format Preservation

Maintains data structure and types during conversion

Error Handling

Identifies and reports conversion errors with helpful messages

Array Support

Handles associative arrays, indexed arrays, and nested structures

Comment Removal

Automatically strips PHP comments (// /* */ #) during conversion

Quick Copy

One-click copying of converted output to clipboard

Dark Mode

Comfortable dark theme for extended usage

Use Cases

Converting legacy PHP code to modern JSON APIs

Migrating data between PHP backend and JavaScript frontend

Testing JSON structures before database integration

Quickly transforming PHP fixtures to JSON test data

Parsing PHP configuration arrays to JSON format

Bulk converting API responses between formats

Data format validation during development

Educational purposes for understanding array structures

Frequently Asked Questions

What PHP array formats are supported?

Both long format (array()) and short format ([]) are supported, including associative arrays with => operators, nested arrays, and mixed data types.

Can I convert complex nested structures?

Yes, the converter handles deeply nested arrays and objects, preserving the complete structure and hierarchy during conversion.

Are PHP comments automatically removed?

Yes, the converter strips all PHP-style comments (// /* */ #) during the conversion process for clean output.

What are the PHP style options?

Short style uses modern [] syntax, while long style uses the traditional array() syntax for PHP 5.3 compatibility.

How are special characters handled?

The converter properly escapes and unescapes special characters to ensure valid JSON and PHP syntax.

Can I convert bidirectionally?

Yes, you can convert PHP to JSON or JSON to PHP using the mode switcher at the top of the tool.

What happens with invalid input?

The tool validates your input and displays error messages to help you identify and fix formatting issues.

Is the conversion instant?

Yes, conversion happens in real-time as you paste or modify your code without any delay.