Question 1

How do I convert JSON to a PHP array?

Accepted Answer

Paste your JSON into the input area and the tool instantly outputs valid PHP code using array() or [] syntax. JSON objects become associative arrays, JSON arrays become indexed arrays, and primitives are emitted with the correct PHP literal.

Question 2

Should I use array() or [] syntax?

Accepted Answer

The short [] syntax was introduced in PHP 5.4 and is the modern PSR-12 standard. Use array() only if you must support legacy PHP versions older than 5.4. The tool lets you toggle between both.

Question 3

How are nested objects and arrays handled?

Accepted Answer

Nested JSON is converted recursively. A JSON object inside another object becomes a nested associative array, and a JSON array becomes an indexed array, all with proper PSR-style 4-space indentation.

Question 4

Does this tool call any external API?

Accepted Answer

No. The conversion runs entirely in your browser with a small parser. Your JSON is never uploaded to a server, which makes it safe for sensitive configuration data.