JSON Sorter

Recursively sort JSON object keys alphabetically while preserving array order

Input

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Output

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What is JSON Sorter

Last reviewed: April 18, 2026

JSON (JavaScript Object Notation) is a lightweight, human-readable data format used almost everywhere on the web for APIs, config files, and log output.

JSON Sorter recursively walks through your JSON document and reorders every object's keys in alphabetical order, leaving array element order untouched.

It's a common prerequisite for producing canonical JSON used in hashing, signature verification, diffing, and source-control-friendly configuration files.

Why use it

Produce canonical JSON for hashing and signing.
Make source-controlled JSON diffs stable across teams.
Simplify manual review of large config files.
Feed predictable input into snapshot tests.
Teach students about deterministic serialisation.

Features

Recursive alphabetical key sort
Preserves array order
Emits two-space indented JSON
Validates input before sorting
Processes JSON Sorter locally in your browser, no upload required

How to use JSON Sorter

Paste JSON. Drop any JSON document into the input.
Click Sort. Every object's keys are reordered alphabetically.
Copy result. Use the canonical JSON for signing, hashing, or diffs.

Example (before/after)

Unsorted JSON

{
  "name": "Ada",
  "id": 7,
  "roles": ["ops", "admin"]
}

Sorted JSON

{
  "id": 7,
  "name": "Ada",
  "roles": [
    "ops",
    "admin"
  ]
}

Common errors

Expected arrays to be sorted too

By default, arrays keep their original order.

Fix: Use a dedicated line sorter if you need array sorting as well.

Stable diffs across versions

Different serialisers may still emit different whitespace.

Fix: Use both JSON Sorter and the formatter to normalise output.

FAQ

Are arrays sorted too?

No — only object keys. Arrays preserve their original order so semantics are not changed.

Is sorting locale-aware?

It uses Array.sort's default string comparison (code-point order).

Is sort recursive?

Yes — every nested object is sorted.

Does it validate input?

Yes — invalid JSON returns an error message.

Is input uploaded?

No — sorting is client-side only.

Related tools

Pair the sorter with the fixer, cleaner, and formatter to produce canonical JSON. You can also browse the full Formatters & Beautifiers category for more options.

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