All Tools VerseExtracting the keys or values from JSON pulls out just the field names or just the data, which is how you map an unfamiliar structure or grab a column of values without the surrounding noise. Keys tell you the shape, values give you the content. This guide explains the difference, when each is useful, and free tools to extract JSON keys and values in your browser.
In this guide
Keys versus values
JSON stores data as key and value pairs. The key is the field name, such as email or price, and the value is the content, such as the actual address or number. Extracting one or the other separates the structure from the data, which is useful when you care about only one. The format itself is covered in our JSON guide.
Extract the keys
Pulling out the keys gives you a list of every field name, which is the fastest way to understand the shape of an unfamiliar JSON payload. The extract JSON keys tool lists the field names so you can see what data is available before writing any code against it.
Extract the values
Pulling out the values gives you the content without the field names, which is handy when you want a plain list to paste into a spreadsheet, a check, or another tool. The extract JSON values tool returns just the data, stripped of the surrounding structure.
Nested data
JSON is often nested, with objects inside objects and arrays of objects. Extraction walks through that structure, so you get the keys or values from the deeper levels too, not just the top. This is what makes it useful on real API responses, which are rarely flat, rather than only on simple examples.
Common uses
Extracting keys is the quickest way to document an API, build a schema, or spot a field you expected but is missing. Extracting values feeds data into a spreadsheet, a test, or a comparison. Both turn a dense JSON blob into something you can scan and act on, which is exactly what you need when handed an unfamiliar response.
Free tools used in this guide
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between JSON keys and values?
The key is the field name, such as email, and the value is the content, such as the actual address. Keys show the shape, values give the data.
How do I list all the field names in JSON?
Extract the keys, which returns a list of every field name so you can see what data is available.
How do I get just the data out of JSON?
Extract the values, which returns the content stripped of the surrounding field names and structure.
Does extraction handle nested JSON?
Yes. It walks through nested objects and arrays, so you get the keys or values from the deeper levels too.
Do the tools upload my data?
No. They process the JSON in your browser, so nothing is sent anywhere.