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How to Convert PHP to JSON - Step by Step Guide

Step 1

Input Your PHP Code

Start by pasting your PHP array, associative array, or data structure that needs to be converted to JSON format. The tool supports both array() syntax and short array [] syntax.

Paste PHP code: Copy your PHP array directly into the editor
Upload a file: Load PHP code from a .php file on your computer
Try samples: Click sample buttons to see different PHP patterns (basic arrays, associative arrays, nested structures)

Example: PHP Associative Array

Here's a typical PHP array:

array(
    'name' => 'Alex Morgan',
    'age' => 32,
    'isActive' => true,
    'skills' => array('PHP', 'Laravel', 'MySQL')
)
Step 2

Click Convert Button

Click the green "Convert" button to send your PHP code to our Python backend API for processing. The converter transforms PHP syntax to JSON format, handling true/false, null values, arrays, and proper quote formatting.

Boolean conversion: PHP true/false becomes JSON true/false
Null handling: PHP null converts to JSON null
Array support: PHP arrays (array() or []) convert to JSON arrays or objects
Associative arrays: PHP => notation converts to JSON key-value pairs
Nested structures: Handle complex PHP array hierarchies

Example: Converted JSON Output

The same data in JSON format:

{
  "name": "Alex Morgan",
  "age": 32,
  "isActive": true,
  "skills": [
    "PHP",
    "Laravel",
    "MySQL"
  ]
}
Step 3

Get Valid JSON Output

The tool produces properly formatted, valid JSON that's ready to use in your applications, APIs, or configurations.

Real-time validation: Green checkmark confirms your JSON is syntactically correct
Proper formatting: Beautified with correct indentation and structure
Ready for APIs: Use directly in REST API responses or database storage
Step 4

Copy or Download JSON

Copy the JSON to your clipboard or download it as a .json file for use in your PHP projects or web applications.

Copy to clipboard for immediate use
Download .json file for integration into your codebase
Use in Laravel: Perfect for config files and API responses
Export options: Convert to readable tables or minify for production

What is PHP to JSON Conversion?

PHP to JSON conversion transforms PHP data structures like arrays, associative arrays, and objects into standard JSON format. This process converts PHP-specific syntax (array(), =>) into JSON-compliant syntax for data interchange and API communication.

The conversion is essential for PHP web applications, REST APIs, and configuration management where JSON is the standard format for data exchange. You can also convert other languages like Python to JSON or JavaScript to JSON using our related tools.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I convert PHP array to JSON?

Simply paste your PHP array into the converter. It will automatically convert PHP syntax (=>, true, false, null, array()) to valid JSON format. The output can then be formatted or minified based on your needs.

Does the converter handle nested PHP arrays?

Yes! The converter properly handles nested arrays, multi-dimensional arrays, and mixed data structures, converting them to equivalent JSON representations while maintaining the structure. You can also convert the reverse direction using our JSON to PHP converter.

What PHP data types are supported?

The converter supports PHP arrays (both array() and [] syntax), associative arrays, strings, numbers, booleans (true/false), and null. These are converted to their JSON equivalents: objects, arrays, strings, numbers, booleans, and null.

Is the output valid JSON?

Yes! The converter produces standard, valid JSON that can be used in any application or API. The output is properly formatted and validated. You can further validate the JSON or convert it to other formats like TypeScript or Python.

Is the PHP to JSON converter free?

Yes, completely free with no limitations on data size or conversion frequency. No registration required. Check out our other free tools like JSON formatter, JSON validator, and JSON to Table converter.