What are the differences between XML and JSON?

What are the main differences between XML and JSON?

XML (eXtensible Markup Language) is a markup language that defines rules for encoding documents, while JSON (JavaScript Object Notation) is a lightweight data interchange format. XML is more verbose and supports attributes, whereas JSON is more compact and easier to read.

Which one is better for data interchange?

JSON is generally preferred for data interchange due to its simplicity and ease of use with JavaScript. XML is more suitable for complex documents that require a strict structure.

Can you give examples of when to use each?

Use JSON for web APIs and configurations where lightweight data is needed. Use XML for document storage, such as in SOAP web services or when you need to enforce a schema.

Are there any performance differences?

Yes, JSON typically has better performance due to its smaller size and faster parsing. XML can be slower because of its verbosity and complexity.