JSON File Too Large to Open? 4 Quick Fixes

Approved By Anuraag Singh

Published On January 14th, 2026

Reading Time 6 Minutes Reading

Category JSON

Opening JSON file is a simple process, but when the file is too large, it becomes a real challenge for users. Many editors or browsers are not designed to handle raw JSON structures, which can lead to slow processing. This problem mainly occurs with APIs, application log files, or batch export, where the JSON structure becomes complex and deeply nested.

If you are facing an issue where JSON file too large to open, then it does not mean that data is unusable. There are manual and automated solutions that can help users open big JSON files in a hassle-free way. Using these approaches, you can streamline the workflow. Now, let’s move down for further discussions.

Common Causes of JSON File Too Big to Open Issue

Working with JSON data is usually simple, but when the file becomes oversized, it fails to open completely. Understanding the main reasons why JSON file too large to open can help users tackle the problem efficiently. Here are the root causes:

JSON datasets with thousands of entries automatically increase the size of file.
If the data contains layers of arrays and objects, this makes JSON file large and complex.
Sometimes, long key names and extra spacing can cause JSON file too big to open issue.
Duplicate entries or repeated data can make the file oversized and cause problems.
When the raw JSON is created from API or application logs often contains extra data in single file.
Managing or storing pictures and long content within JSON increases the file size.

What to Do When JSON File Too Large to Open? Splitting JSON into multiple smaller chunks is the best way to fix this problem. This is the only way to prevent your data from corruption and open it quickly. But in the next section, we have also shared all the possible working methods in a detailed manner. Take a look below.

How to Fix “ JSON File Too Large to Open” Issue?

Finally, we reach the section where we’ll explain the 4 different methods to solve the issue “JSON file too big to open.” Depending on the size of your file and your needs, you can try different techniques, such as simple manual methods or advanced tools. Now, let’s start the process to resolve the problem by explaining each method in turn. Here are the methods:

Divide JSON into Small Pieces
Using a Text Editor
Minify the JSON File
Extract Relevant Data

#1 Divide Large JSON Files into Smaller Parts

Many users need to open big JSON files quickly and securely. Here is one of the best solutions to fix JSON file too large to open issue. Using the professional JSON Splitter Tool by SysTools, users can divide JSON into smaller chunks to manage and access data effortlessly without having any restrictions or crashing problems.

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Using this robust utility, users can reduce the size of JSON file while maintaining formatting and data accuracy. This software ensures that your sensitive data remains secure, easy to open, and ready for sharing. Its advanced features make the entire process effortless and solve the issue with just a few clicks. This solution is suitable for both professionals and beginners.

How to Fix “JSON File Too Big to Open” Issue Using the Tool

Download & launch the software on your PC.
Browse and upload large JSON file.
Choose between Split by Record or Size option.
Choose the location path and click on Split button.
Finally, hit on View Report to see resultant file.

#2 Use a Lightweight Text Editor

There are various text editors, but all editors can handle complex and large JSON files. Using a simple text editor can help users open and view files without crashing the system. Follow the steps given below:

Install a Text Editor on your PC.
Open JSON file in editor directly.
Use the built-in option to find keys and objects.
Lastly, edit and copy section of JSON data as required.

#3 Compress the JSON File

If your JSON file too large to open, then minify the file. It means simply removing extra spaces and line breaks. These two problems can increase the file size. Using this solution, users can also remove characters and make the JSON smaller and easier to open. Below are the steps to follow:

Use an online minifier tool.
Copy the JSON text into the tool.
Start the process to remove extra space, tabs, and line breaks.
Finally, save the file and try opening it in text editor.

#4 Extract Only Important JSON Data

Most of the time, users don’t need the entire file at once. So, in this situation, extracting the specific data from JSON file you want can reduce the size and open it securely. Here are the steps mentioned:

Open the file in JSON Viewer that can load data.
Choose a specific section that contains data.
Again, copy the section into new JSON file.
Open the small file safely in the editor.

Limitations of Using Manual Solutions

Opening JSON file can be time-consuming, and it requires extra steps.
High chance of data loss and errors when opening large JSON files.
Large and deeply nested files cannot be opened by manual techniques.
JSON file too large to open issue cannot be solved by these methods.
These solutions also require technical knowledge and manual efforts.
Sometimes, the chances of misplacing and duplicating data increase.

Final Thoughts!

Handling large JSON files is not an easy task. When JSON file too large then it disrupts the workflow. So, understanding the root causes and applying the right approach can help you resolve the issue. While manual methods may help to manage small JSON datasets, and fall short with complex files. These solutions also come with some limitations.

So, we suggest you choose an expert solution to fix JSON file too big to open issue within just a few minutes. It allows users to divide JSON into manageable parts and reduce the size of JSON for better management and quick access. Choose the technique that suits your needs and preferences.