Google Sheets has established itself as a versatile, go-to tool for data management and spreadsheet tasks. It’s collaborative, cloud-based, and flexible enough to support everything from simple data entry to complex workflows.
But what if you need to take that data further?
Exporting Google Sheets data to JSON—a lightweight, universal data format—unlocks a world of possibilities for developers, analysts, and product teams. The question is: how do you export Google Sheets to JSON efficiently?
What’s the best method to export Google Sheets to JSON?
Exporting Google Sheets to JSON is an essential task if you’re integrating with web apps, feeding data to APIs, or running custom dashboards. So, which method wins for exporting Google Sheets to JSON? Let’s break it down:
| Method | Description | Ease of Use | Automation | Multi-Source Support | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Coupler.io | A no-code automation tool that exports Google Sheets data to JSON on a set schedule | ? Very Easy | ? Full Automation | ? Yes | Business teams, data automation for frequent updates, integrations |
| Apps Script | Use custom scripts within Google Sheets to export data as JSON | ? Moderate | ? Partial Automation (if coded) | ? No | Developers needing dynamic JSON endpoints |
| Manual CSV to JSON | Export as CSV, then convert to JSON using online tools or scripts | ? Easy | ? No | ? No | One-time exports |
| Add-ons | Use add-ons from the Google Workspace Marketplace to export to JSON from within Google Sheets | ?/ ? Easy / Moderate | ? / ? Limited | ? Limited | Lightweight, recurring exports |
| Online tools/ scripts | Features and processes vary by tool | ? Moderate | ? No | ? No | Light use cases |
This tutorial breaks down three proven methods to export Google Sheets data to JSON so you can choose the best approach based on your technical expertise and automation needs.
Export Google Sheets to JSON easily with Coupler.io
When it comes to exporting Google Sheets to JSON without breaking a sweat, Coupler.io is hard to beat. This no-code automation platform simplifies the process, delivering real-time JSON exports while merging data from over 60 sources, such as Airtable, QuickBooks, or Salesforce, into a single output. For anyone needing consistent updates or working with multiple datasets, Coupler.io’s automation and flexibility make it a standout choice.
To set up Coupler.io to export Google Sheets data to JSON, click Proceed from the widget below. It has been configured to select Google Sheets as the data source and JSON as the destination format.
You’ll be asked to create a Coupler.io account for free and without needing a credit card. Or, if you already have an account, you’ll be taken directly to the data flow.
Either way, once you’ve logged in, here’s how to complete the export process in 3 easy steps.
Step 1: Access your Google Sheets file
Connect your Google account and authorize Coupler.io to access your sheets. Then, select the spreadsheet and worksheet you want to export. Within the specific worksheet, you can also select the range of data you want to export. Once you’re satisfied with your selection, click Finish and Proceed.
Coupler.io’s flexibility and robustness allow you to select multiple worksheets within a file and consolidate their data into one JSON file. Once you’ve selected your data, move on to the next step, i.e., transformation.
Step 2: Preview and transform imported data
Coupler.io’s preview feature lets you confirm your data selection, ensuring you’re capturing the right rows and columns. After you’ve previewed the data, you can transform data in various ways like:
- Filtering rows using specific criteria
- Hiding columns you don’t need
- Sorting data in ascending or descending order
- Creating new columns using formulas
- Merging multiple sheets or sources if needed
These options give you full control over how your data will appear in the JSON file format at the end of the process. Once the data looks how you want it to, proceed to the next step.
Step 3: Obtain the JSON URL and automate updates
Finally, you need to load your Google Sheets data from Coupler.io into the online JSON file based on the in-app instructions. For this, generate a JSON integration URL by clicking on the Generate Link button.
This URL will be your ticket to access your imported data in JSON format. You can use it to view the data online or download it. Click Save and Run to finish your data flow.
If you will be updating the Google Sheets data you’re importing, you may want to set up an automatic data refresh schedule. You can do this by switching the Automatic data refresh toggle on.
Then, set a refresh schedule that suits your needs to automatically update your JSON data structure file as your data updates.
Once everything is set, run your importer and watch your Google Sheets data turn into a structured JSON file, ready to be accessed. The data flows based on your schedule from Google Sheets to Coupler.io, updated with the latest edits. Download it, share it, or plug it into another system!
Coupler.io’s strength lies in its seamless data flow and hands-off approach. It pulls your Google Sheets data, applies your customizations, and delivers a fresh JSON file on autopilot. Whether you’re building a web app or syncing with a dashboard, this method saves time and scales effortlessly, all while ensuring data consistency.
How does data flow in Coupler.io?
The platform functions as an ETL (Extract, Transform, Load) tool:
- Extracts data from Google Sheets (or multiple sources)
- Transforms it based on your configuration (filters, sorting, formulas)
- Loads it into a JSON format, hosted via a shareable URL, or exported directly. This method also works when you use Power BI as a destination. At the same time, if you need to connect Google Sheets to BigQuery, the configuration will be different.
You can plug this JSON file into any system that supports API consumption, data visualization, or integration layers.
Can you export data from Google Sheets to JSON directly in a spreadsheet?
Yes, but it’s not a built-in feature. For those with a knack for coding, Google Sheets offers a direct route to JSON via Google Apps Script. This built-in scripting platform allows you to convert sheet data into JSON and even deploy it as a web app—all within Google’s ecosystem. It’s a powerful option for those seeking full control and who don’t mind a bit of programming.
This method is ideal for developers looking to export a spreadsheet as a JSON endpoint or just convert data on the fly.
How to export JSON using Google Apps Script
- Open the Google Sheet you want to export data from.
- Go to Extensions > Apps Script.
- Replace the default code with the following sample code to fetch data and output it as JSON:
function doGet() {
var sheet = SpreadsheetApp.getActiveSheet();
var data = sheet.getDataRange().getValues();
var headers = data.shift();
// Remove and store header row
var jsonData = data.map(row => {
var obj = {};
headers.forEach((header, i) => obj[header] = row[i]);
return obj;
});
return ContentService.createTextOutput(JSON.stringify(jsonData, null, 2))
.setMimeType(ContentService.MimeType.JSON);
}
- Save the script and click Run. The Run option will become available once you’ve saved your script.
- Click Deploy > Test deployments > Web app. Give your web app a name, change the access if required, and click Deploy.
- Choose your account, authorize permissions, and copy the endpoint URL.
This will give you a live JSON version of your Google Sheet data. You can then paste the URL into your browser and get a pretty sweet JSON file containing all your exported data. You can either view it online or download it to your computer.
A factor worth considering is that while this method works well for static or smaller datasets, it lacks scheduling, transformation features, and multi-source integration.
DIY: manual export of Google Sheets data to JSON
If coding or automation isn’t your thing, manual methods can still help get you to JSON. These approaches rely on exporting Google Sheets data in a familiar format and converting it with accessible tools. They’re ideal for a more hands-on approach or a one-time export but require repetition for updates.
Method 1: Export as CSV, then convert to JSON
- In Google Sheets, go to File > Download > Comma-Separated Values (.csv) and save the file.
- Use an online converter like CSVJSON or ConvertCSV. Alternatively, you can use a script. Here’s a Python example:
import csv
import json
with open("sheet_export.csv", "r") as csv_file:
csv_reader = csv.DictReader(csv_file)
data = [row for row in csv_reader]
with open("output.json", "w") as json_file:
json.dump(data, json_file, indent=4)
- Copy or download the generated JSON file.
This creates a JSON array of objects based on your CSV headers. It’s quick but manual—any changes in the sheet mean you have to start over.
This method works for quick exports, but keep in mind:
- It’s not automated.
- You’ll need to repeat this process each time your data updates.
Method 2: Use Google Sheets Add-ons
Several third-party add-ons in the Google Workspace Marketplace, like Export Sheet Data or Sheets™ to JSON, can export directly to JSON:
- Open your Google Sheet.
- Go to Extensions > Add-ons > Get add-ons.
- Search for “export” or “JSON” and install a suitable add-on.
- Follow the add-on’s instructions to export your data.
- [Optional] Choose JSON as the output format.
The add-on will generate a JSON output file that you can download.
Add-ons provide a convenient middle ground between manual exports and full automation but may have limitations in terms of customization, data volume, and scheduling.
Method 3: Use an Online Script or Tool
Manual methods are accessible but lack scalability. They’re fine for occasional use, but you’ll need to redo the process whenever your data updates.
Various online tools can connect directly to Google Sheets and generate JSON:
- Use services like Sheets2JSON, GSX2JSON, or similar tools.
- Authorize the tool to access your Google Sheet.
- Configure export options and download your JSON file.
These services vary in features and pricing, with some offering basic transformation capabilities.
Alternatively, you can use JavaScript or Python snippets that let you paste your spreadsheet data and instantly get JSON in return. This method is okay for smaller, static datasets but not ideal for ongoing needs.
Which option to choose for exporting Google Sheets to JSON
While there are many ways to get the job done, choosing the right one depends on your needs.
- If you’re working with dynamic datasets, want recurring exports, or need to integrate with other tools, Coupler.io is hands down the best option. It’s built for automation, supports multiple sources, and doesn’t require coding skills.
- For developers comfortable with JavaScript and who just want a live JSON endpoint, Google Apps Script provides flexibility and control.
- If you only need JSON once or twice, and your data doesn’t change often, then manual methods or add-ons will do the job.
Whatever your goal, the tools are available—you just need to choose the one that fits your workflow. For most users, however, Coupler.io strikes the perfect balance. It saves time, reduces hassle, and delivers reliable JSON exports tailored to your needs.
Ready to automate your JSON exports? Get started with Coupler.io and transform your spreadsheets into powerful data engines.
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