How APIs Use Prefix Compression to Shrink Payloads

Episode 57 of The API Podcast dives into prefix compression—a technique that slashes JSON payload size by eliminating repeated keys across arrays. Lucas and Luna break down how it works using a real-world example: a 1,000-order JSON blob that goes from 87 KB to 34 KB with a simple dictionary approach. They explore where prefix compression shines (high-cardinality arrays with repetitive key structures), where it backfires (sparse or deeply nested objects), and how tools like JSON:API and gRPC handle similar trade-offs. The hosts also discuss when to reach for compression versus pagination, and why some APIs silently compress under the hood without clients noticing. By the end, listeners will understand a concrete optimization they can suggest to their backend team tomorrow. #API #PrefixCompression #JSON #PayloadOptimization #REST #GraphQL #WebAPIs #Performance #DataFormat #Compression #DeveloperTools #Backend #Frontend #TechPodcast #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #SoftwareEngineering #WebDevelopment Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo