The WordPress REST API opens up a whole new world for what your site can do. Whether you’re a developer or just someone who loves building smarter websites, it makes it easy to connect your site with other tools, automate tasks, and even create custom front-end apps—all using the rock-solid power of WordPress.
But to really make the most of it, the right plugins can make a big difference. In this post, I’ll share some of the best REST API plugins that can help you manage your data, boost your site’s functionality, and simplify integrations without diving deep into code.
Let’s take a look at how these tools can help make your WordPress site more dynamic and connected than ever!
WPGetAPI
If you want an easy way to connect your WordPress site with external APIs, WPGetAPI is a great pick. It lets you pull in or send data to other apps—like grabbing content or working with custom post types—without the usual hassle.
What I like about WPGetAPI is how simple it is to use. The interface is clean, and while you’ll need a bit of basic coding to display the data just right, it’s way easier than building it all from scratch. It’s a solid choice for developers and site owners who want smooth, no-fuss integrations.
Key Features
- Unlimited APIs – Connect to as many APIs as you need.
- Easy shortcodes – Show data anywhere with a simple shortcode.
- Custom requests – Add query parameters and headers easily.
- Fast & lightweight – Won’t slow your site down.
- Filter & sort – Organize your data how you want.
- JavaScript-friendly – Works smoothly with frameworks like React or Vue.
- Helpful docs – Clear guides and examples to walk you through.
Pros
- Powerful features – Handles complex API tasks really well.
- Free version available – You can try it out without spending anything.
- Pro version extras – Offers useful event triggers for more advanced setups.
Cons
- Some coding needed – You’ll need to write a bit of PHP to format the data.
- Extra costs for add-ons – Features like WooCommerce support or authentication require paid add-ons ($89–$165 for one site).
- No built-in caching – Might affect performance if you’re calling APIs a lot.
- Docs could be better – Limited documentation, and some links didn’t work when I checked.
Pricing
Free, premium version starts at $65/year
Summary
WPGetAPI is a handy plugin for anyone looking to connect their WordPress site with external APIs—without getting overwhelmed. It lets you pull in and display data using shortcodes, set custom headers and parameters, and even works smoothly with JavaScript frameworks. While you’ll need a bit of PHP to format the output, it’s much easier than starting from scratch.
There’s a free version to get you started, and the Pro version unlocks even more features like event triggers. Just keep in mind that some advanced features (like WooCommerce support or authorization) need paid add-ons, and the documentation could use some improvement.
Custom API for WP
If you’ve ever wanted to create custom REST API endpoints in WordPress without writing a single line of code, Custom API for WP is the perfect solution. This plugin makes it easy to access and manage data from WordPress tables, such as users and posts, as well as tables from other plugins—all through an intuitive, user-friendly interface.
If you need more advanced features or have more complex requirements, the paid options offer enhanced functionality to take your API customizations to the next level. Whether you’re building custom integrations, managing data across plugins, or creating seamless third-party connections, this plugin makes the process simple and efficient.
Key Features
- Create your own API namespaces and routes
- Add multiple endpoints per route
- Works with GET, POST, PUT, and DELETE
- Fetch data with custom conditions
- Limit how many results are returned
- Supports JSON and form data formats
Pros
- Built-in sandbox for testing
- Run SQL queries through endpoints
- Clean and user-friendly interface
Cons
- Can get pricey
- Features are split into many paid add-ons
- Paid support may be needed for advanced help
Pricing
Free, premium version starts at $199/year
Summary
Custom API for WP is a great tool if you want full control over building your own REST API within WordPress. It lets you create custom routes, set up multiple endpoints, and work with different request types like GET, POST, PUT, and DELETE. You can also filter data, limit responses, and use both JSON and form data formats.
It’s user-friendly, and the built-in sandbox makes testing easy. You can even run SQL queries directly through your API. However, the pricing can add up quickly since many features are split into separate paid add-ons, and advanced support also comes at a cost.
JSON Content Importer
If you want an easy way to bring data from other websites or apps into your WordPress site, JSON Content Importer (JCI) is a solid choice. It’s perfect for pulling in content from REST APIs and showing it on your site—whether it’s for posts, pages, or custom layouts.
One of the best things about JCI is how simple it is to get started. With just a shortcode or a Gutenberg block, you can start displaying data right away—even with the free version. If you need more advanced features, the Pro version adds extra tools like POST/PUT support, plugin integrations, and Twig templating to help you customize the look and feel of the data you import.
Key Features
- Just add an API URL to fetch and show data—no heavy coding needed
- Comes with built-in support for caching, SSL checks, and API authentication
- Works with Contact Form 7 to fill forms with API data or send data to an API
- Caching helps reduce how often your site calls the API
Pros
- Caching helps improve speed and performance
- Even the free version includes a simple template system
- Pro version adds Twig templating for more control and flexibility
- Plays nicely with custom fields, Elementor, and Gutenberg
- Plenty of helpful documentation available
Cons
- Interface can feel a bit tricky to navigate at first
- Some coding knowledge is needed, especially for more advanced setups
Pricing
Free, premium version starts at $59/year for one site
Summary
JSON Content Importer (JCI) makes it easy to bring live data from other websites or services straight into your WordPress site. Whether you’re showing off external content, connecting to apps, or filling forms with live info, JCI helps you do it without needing to build everything from scratch.
It’s beginner-friendly at first—you just pop in an API URL and display the data using blocks or shortcodes. The Pro version steps things up with powerful tools like Twig templating and deeper integrations with other plugins like Contact Form 7 and Elementor. There’s also built-in caching to keep things fast.
Jet Engine
JetEngine is a fantastic plugin if you need a robust solution for managing REST API endpoints without touching code. Its standout feature is the ability to fetch and display data from remote sources through a visual interface. You simply create a listing template, select the REST API endpoint as your data source, and let JetEngine handle the rest.
Whether you’re creating advanced content listings or enhancing the dynamic nature of your site with external API data, JetEngine makes it not only possible but incredibly straightforward. With this tool, you can streamline complex tasks and improve functionality without the steep learning curve of manual coding.
Key Features
- REST API tools are built-in and can be turned off if you don’t need them
- Comes with a visual, no-code interface
- Lets you show content from other sites without writing code
Pros
- Full set of tools for working with REST API data
- Can fetch data from posts, custom post types, custom content types, and even advanced custom queries
- Super easy to use—even without technical skills
- No need for extra tools like Postman
- Custom Content Type (CCT) is made to handle API data smoothly
- Works well with JetFormBuilder for dynamic forms
- Includes caching and authorization options
- Great value—very affordable for what it offers
Cons
- No major downsides found
Pricing
$43/year
Summary
JetEngine is a go-to plugin if you want to work with REST APIs on your WordPress site—without diving into code. What makes it so appealing is how simple it is to use. You get a clean visual interface that lets you connect to outside data sources and display that content on your site however you like.
You can pull in posts, custom content types, or even run advanced queries, all with just a few clicks. It’s perfect if you want your site to be more dynamic or pull live content from other platforms. And the best part? It’s packed with features but still budget-friendly.
MB Rest API
MB REST API makes it super easy to work with your WordPress data through custom API endpoints. Whether you’re adding, editing, or deleting posts, users, or custom content, this plugin gives you a smooth way to handle it all—no need to get too technical.
It’s a great tool if you’re building something more advanced, like a custom app or an external integration. With its powerful features, you get more control over how your site connects with other systems—without the usual coding headaches.
Key Features
- Easily create your own custom REST API endpoints with a clean, simple interface.
- Supports all the main request types: GET, POST, PUT, and DELETE.
- Lets you filter and sort data, so you get exactly what you need.
- Makes it easy to connect your WordPress site with other apps or services.
Pros
- Simple interface for custom endpoints
- Full support for GET, POST, PUT, DELETE
- Built-in filtering and sorting
- Great for external app integrations
Cons
- Not beginner-friendly
- No visual display tools
Pricing
Free
Summary
MB REST API is a handy plugin if you want more control over how your WordPress site shares and manages data through custom REST API endpoints.
It lets you create, update, or pull content like posts and users without writing complex code. If you’re working on apps or need to connect WordPress to other platforms, this tool makes things easier and more flexible—perfect for developers looking to go beyond the basics without getting too technical.
WP OAuth Server
If you want to let other apps or platforms connect to your WordPress site securely, WP OAuth Server is a great tool to have. It turns your site into an OAuth 2.0 server, which means you can manage things like single sign-on (SSO) and secure logins between systems.
What makes it stand out is how it handles all the complex authentication stuff behind the scenes—so you don’t have to. Whether you’re building custom apps or just want to boost your site’s security and integration options, this plugin helps make it simple and safe.
Key Features
- Turns your WordPress site into a secure login hub using OAuth 2.0.
- Supports different login flows depending on what your app or site needs.
- Makes single sign-on (SSO) easy—users can log in once and access multiple platforms.
- Lets approved third-party apps access your WordPress data safely and with permission.
Pros
- Boosts security – Provides secure authentication with OAuth 2.0.
- Easy integration – Works well for connecting your WordPress site with other apps or platforms.
- Single sign-on (SSO) – Users only need to log in once to access multiple services.
- Flexible grant types – Supports various authentication flows to suit different needs.
Cons
- Premium features – Some advanced options require the paid version.
- Limited support for older systems – Some older apps or systems may not fully support OAuth 2.0.
Pricing
Free, premium version starts at $99/year
Summary
WP OAuth Server is a plugin that makes it easy to add secure login options and integrate your WordPress site with other apps using the OAuth 2.0 protocol. It’s perfect if you want to implement features like single sign-on (SSO), allowing users to log in once and access multiple services without re-entering their details.
Whether you’re a developer looking to streamline authentication or just want to make your site more secure, this plugin handles the heavy lifting so you can focus on other things.
Advanced Custom Fields
Advanced Custom Fields (ACF) is a game-changer for WordPress developers, especially when you need to work with custom field data. It seamlessly integrates with the WordPress REST API, making your ACF fields available through API endpoints. This opens up plenty of possibilities for building dynamic, flexible applications.
If you’re working with headless WordPress setups or developing mobile apps, ACF makes it super easy to pull custom field data into your projects. It’s an essential tool for fetching structured data for external services or anywhere else you need API access. Whether you’re creating interactive front-end designs or simplifying data connections, ACF helps you unlock your site’s full potential, one custom field at a time.
Key Features
- Easy ACF integration – Automatically makes ACF fields available through the WordPress REST API.
- Supports all ACF field types – Works with all kinds of ACF data, no matter how complex.
- Customizable endpoints – Set up different endpoints to access your ACF field data.
- Recursive data retrieval – Fetch ACF fields in a nested or recursive way for more detailed data.
- Extended API power – Enhances the WordPress API for more dynamic, interactive applications.
Pros
- Seamless integration – Automatically exposes ACF fields to the REST API without extra effort.
- Works with all ACF field types – Handles any type of custom field you create in ACF.
- Flexible configuration – Customize endpoints for your specific needs.
- Improves API functionality – Expands WordPress API capabilities for more dynamic apps.
- Recursive field retrieval – Fetch complex, nested data easily.
Cons
- Not suitable for non-ACF users – Best suited for developers who need custom fields.
Pricing
Free, premium version starts at $49/year
Summary
Advanced Custom Fields (ACF) is a great plugin for WordPress developers who need to work with custom field data. It seamlessly integrates with the WordPress REST API, making your ACF fields accessible through API endpoints.
Whether you’re creating dynamic front-end interfaces or working with headless WordPress setups, ACF simplifies the process of fetching and using custom data. It supports all types of ACF fields and allows you to configure API endpoints as needed, making it a powerful tool for more complex, interactive applications.
Conclusion
Choosing the right WordPress REST API plugin can make a huge difference in how you connect, manage, and display data on your site. If you’re looking for a simple way to connect to external APIs, WPGetAPI is a beginner-friendly option that makes it easy to fetch and display data without heavy coding. For more flexibility and custom routes, Custom API for WP is a solid tool that lets you build your own endpoints with ease.
If your goal is to display external data on your site in real-time, JSON Content Importer helps you pull in dynamic content using blocks or shortcodes. On the other hand, JetEngine offers a visual, no-code interface for working with REST APIs, ideal for users who want power and simplicity combined. Developers who need deeper control over WordPress data will appreciate MB REST API, which makes managing posts, users, and custom content via API a breeze.
When it comes to secure user authentication and advanced integrations, WP OAuth Server turns your WordPress site into a powerful OAuth 2.0 provider—perfect for apps that need single sign-on or secure data access. And for those already using Advanced Custom Fields, the ACF REST API integration is an essential add-on that brings your custom fields into the world of APIs effortlessly.
No matter your skill level or project type, there’s a REST API plugin that can help you streamline your workflow, extend functionality, and unlock new possibilities for your WordPress site. Choosing the right one means you’ll save time, reduce complexity, and build smarter, more dynamic web experiences.
Recommendations
Here are my top picks for WordPress REST API plugins based on different needs and use cases:
Best Overall REST API Plugin: WPGetAPI
WPGetAPI is the easiest way to connect to external APIs and display data on your site without writing code. It’s beginner-friendly, flexible, and perfect for anyone looking to pull in data from third-party services.
Best for Custom API Endpoints: Custom API for WP
If you need full control over how your WordPress site communicates via REST, Custom API for WP lets you create custom endpoints tailored to your exact needs. Ideal for developers who want flexibility and control.
Best for Displaying External Data Visually: JSON Content Importer
This plugin is a great choice if your focus is on showing external data directly on your site. Use blocks or shortcodes to pull and display remote content—no advanced setup needed.
Best No-Code REST API Builder: JetEngine
JetEngine stands out with its visual interface and powerful REST API tools. It’s perfect for non-developers who want to connect to APIs, fetch data, and display it beautifully—all without touching code.
Best for Secure API Authentication: WP OAuth Server
This plugin is your go-to if you want to turn your site into an OAuth 2.0 provider. Great for secure single sign-on, user authentication, or connecting apps to your WordPress site safely.
Best for Working with ACF Fields via API: Advanced Custom Fields (ACF)
If you already use ACF, this integration makes all your custom fields accessible via the WordPress REST API. It’s a must-have for headless setups or sites that need structured data through APIs.
