Bruno vs Thunder Client
Thunder Client has taken a different approach - paywalling essential API testing features that should be free. While they market themselves as a 'lightweight' alternative, their pricing model tells a different story.
Important Licensing Difference
Thunder Client's "free" version is only for non-commercial use. If you use Thunder Client at work, you're required to pay for it or you're violating their licensing agreement. Bruno is truly free for everyone - solo developers, startups, and enterprise teams alike.
"API testing shouldn't be held hostage by subscription tiers. Essential features like scripting, environments, and protocol support should be free for every developer."
Developer Productivity
Basic API Testing Features
| Feature | Thunder Client | Bruno |
|---|---|---|
| Charges | $3-16/month per user | Completely free |
| Features | Custom scripting, global environments, request chaining, file uploads | HTTP/REST/GraphQL/gRPC support, unlimited scripting, environments, request chaining, file uploads |
Collection Runs & Testing
| Feature | Thunder Client | Bruno |
|---|---|---|
| Limits | 30 runs on Starter, 250 on Business, 0 for free users | Unlimited collection runs completely free |
Scripting & Automation
| Feature | Thunder Client | Bruno |
|---|---|---|
| Scripting | Paywalled | Full scripting capabilities for free |
Collaboration & Workflow
Team Collaboration
| Feature | Thunder Client | Bruno |
|---|---|---|
| Collaboration | Requires paid subscriptions | Seamless team collaboration through Git |
Version Control & Git Integration
| Feature | Thunder Client | Bruno |
|---|---|---|
| Git Integration | Only on paid plans | Built with Git integration |
Technical Capabilities
Protocol Support
| Feature | Thunder Client | Bruno |
|---|---|---|
| Protocols | Paywalled - full access requires payment | Supports various protocols completely free |
Environment Management
| Feature | Thunder Client | Bruno |
|---|---|---|
| Environment Management | Charged on all paid plans | Unlimited environments completely free |
Enterprise & Philosophy
Offline & Privacy
| Feature | Thunder Client | Bruno |
|---|---|---|
| Connectivity | Requires online connectivity | Works completely offline |
Pricing Philosophy
| Feature | Thunder Client | Bruno |
|---|---|---|
| Business Model | Freemium model | Core functionality completely free |
Ready to Test APIs Without Limits?
Download Bruno](/content/downloads/index.html) Get the VS Code Extension
No Paywalls, Just Support
Bruno provides all essential API testing features for free. If you need enterprise support or have questions, we're here to help without forcing you into subscription tiers. Email us at support@usebruno.com or contact our sales team.