ajv
Fast JSON Schema Validator supporting multiple drafts and JSON Type Definition.
- Status
- Generally available
- Last checked
- Checked · Oct 5, 2026
- License
- Open source
- Pricing
- Free tier
What it is
AJV (Another JSON Validator) is a JSON schema validator that supports JSON Schema drafts 04, 06, 07, 2019-09, 2020-12, and JSON Type Definition (RFC8927). Written in TypeScript, it is designed for high performance and flexibility, making it suitable for both client-side and server-side validation tasks. AJV is open-source and has a large community of contributors, ensuring regular updates and improvements. It is widely used in the JavaScript ecosystem for validating complex data structures against JSON schemas.
AJV is distinguished by its high performance and comprehensive support for multiple JSON Schema drafts.
When it fits — and when it doesn’t
A good fit for
Applications requiring fast JSON validation
AJV's compiled function approach significantly speeds up validation processes.
Projects needing support for multiple JSON Schema drafts
AJV supports a wide range of JSON Schema drafts, making it versatile for various projects.
Look elsewhere if
Developers needing extensive built-in error handling
AJV's error messages are minimal and may require custom handling.
Projects with minimal JSON validation needs
The complexity and setup of AJV might be overkill for simple validation tasks.
Known weaknesses
Each one links to the public issue, changelog or docs page it came from, where we have one.
- 01
Complexity in advanced use cases
Users report difficulties when implementing custom keywords and formats.
- 02
Large number of open issues
Currently has 376 open issues on GitHub.
- 03
Limited built-in error messaging
Error messages can be cryptic and require additional parsing.
What it does well
High performance
AJV compiles schemas to JavaScript functions to improve validation speed.
Wide schema draft support
Supports JSON Schema drafts 04, 06, 07, 2019-09, 2020-12, and JSON Type Definition.
Strong community support
Over 14,000 stars and 212 contributors on GitHub.
Pricing
- Free tier
- Yes
- Paid from
- —
- Model
- Flat rate
- Enterprise plan
- No
Pricing last confirmed Sep 27, 2026.
Performance benchmarks
How Fast Is It?
Set up ajv
Setup steps, common gotchas and what to check after 30 days.