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Bruno vs Thunder Client: Features, Pricing and User Reviews 2026

Bruno logo

Bruno

Fast Offline API Client for Developers

Bruno screenshot
VS
Thunder Client logo

Thunder Client

Lightweight API Testing Extension for VS Code

Thunder Client screenshot

What are Bruno and Thunder Client?

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Bruno

Bruno is an "offline-first API client" that revolutionizes how developers test and manage APIs. Instead of forcing you to create accounts or store data in the cloud, Bruno saves everything directly on your device using a simple text format called "Bru."

This approach means your API collections, tests, and sensitive data never leave your computer unless you choose to share them. Bruno supports all major API types including REST, GraphQL, and gRPC, making it versatile for any project.

The tool integrates seamlessly with Git and other version control systems, allowing teams to collaborate on API collections just like they do with code. Bruno also includes JavaScript-based testing, environment management, and command-line support for automation and continuous integration workflows.

Thunder Client logo
Thunder Client

Thunder Client is a REST API testing tool that lives inside Visual Studio Code. You can send requests, check responses, and organize your API tests without opening another program. It works just like other API testing tools but runs directly in your code editor.

The extension saves all your requests and settings on your own computer. This makes it fast, private, and able to work without internet. You can also save your testing data to Git repositories, making it easy to share with your team.

Thunder Client offers both free and paid versions. The free version works great for basic testing, while paid plans add features like unlimited test runs, team management tools, and advanced testing options for businesses.

Features of Bruno and Thunder Client

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Bruno
  • Completely offline API client with no cloud sync required

  • Git-friendly file storage using .bru markup language

  • Support for REST, GraphQL, and gRPC APIs

  • JavaScript-based testing and automation capabilities

  • Environment variable management with secrets support

  • Command-line interface for CI/CD integration

  • Import collections from Postman and Insomnia

  • Cross-platform desktop app for Windows, Mac, and Linux

  • Open-source with free core features

Thunder Client logo
Thunder Client
  • Lightweight VS Code extension for API testing

  • Local storage keeps data private and secure

  • Git sync for team collaboration

  • Collections organize related API requests

  • Environment variables for different settings

  • Scriptless testing with simple interface

  • CLI integration for automated testing

  • GraphQL, WebSocket, and gRPC support

  • Request chaining and advanced scripting

  • AI integration through MCP Server

Use Cases of Bruno and Thunder Client

Pricing of Bruno and Thunder Client

Bruno logo
Bruno

Bruno offers transparent pricing with a strong free tier and affordable paid options for advanced features.

Free Version includes all core API testing functionality with unlimited collections, requests, and environments. You get full offline access, Git integration, JavaScript testing, and CLI support at no cost.

Pro Plan ($6/month) adds advanced Git client integration, OpenAPI design tools, and priority support. This plan is ideal for individual developers and small teams who need enhanced workflow integration.

Ultimate Plan ($11/month) includes everything from Pro plus additional enterprise features, advanced automation tools, and expanded OpenAPI capabilities.

Unlike competitors that limit core functionality or require expensive team plans, Bruno keeps essential features free while charging only for premium add-ons. There are no per-user restrictions on the free version, making it accessible for teams of any size who want to start with basic API testing.

Thunder Client logo
Thunder Client

Thunder Client offers flexible pricing to match different needs. The Free plan gives you the extension with 30 collection runs and basic features, but it is limited to personal, non-commercial use only.

The Individual plan costs $49 per year and includes 100 collection runs, advanced scripting, request chaining, and access to WebSocket, SSE, and gRPC testing. This plan works well for freelance developers.

For teams, the Business plan is $7 per month per user and includes 500 collection runs, team features, CLI integration, and the ability to pay by invoice.

The Enterprise plan at $16 per month per user offers unlimited collection runs, priority support, offline activation, encrypted environments, secrets manager integration with Azure and AWS, and enterprise single sign-on capabilities.

FAQs: Bruno vs Thunder Client

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Bruno
Thunder Client logo
Thunder Client

Reviews: Bruno vs Thunder Client

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Bruno
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Based on 0 reviews

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Thunder Client
0.0

Based on 0 reviews

5
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Compare Thunder Client With Other Tools