swift-format review

Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026

swift-format is an open-source command-line formatter and linter for Swift source code. It is suited to developers working on Swift projects for macOS and iOS, especially teams that want formatting and style checks in command-line workflows, Swift Package Manager projects, or Apple development environments. The tool can format one or more files, accept source code from standard input, apply changes in place, and check Swift files for style violations. It can also be included in the Swift toolchain or built as a Swift Package Manager dependency.

Its strongest fit is the Swift ecosystem. swift-format integrates with SourceKit-LSP, Swift Package Manager, and Xcode, while its package includes Swift Package Manager plugins for formatting and linting. The published capabilities also include SwiftFormatter and SwiftLinter APIs, allowing Swift applications to access formatting and linting functions directly. JSON-based formatter configuration provides a way to define formatting behavior, and recursive directory processing supports source trees rather than only individual files. Parallel processing is available for workflows handling multiple files.

The product keeps its focus narrow: Swift formatting and linting across macOS and iOS. That focus makes it a practical choice for Apple-platform Swift projects that need command-line processing, editor and package-manager integration, or programmable access through APIs. It is less suitable for teams seeking a multi-language formatter, broader static-analysis coverage, or verified support beyond macOS and iOS. The command-line tool is also included in Swift 6 and later toolchains, while the open-source package can be built as a Swift Package Manager dependency.

swift-format pros and cons

• Where it wins
  • Formats files, standard input, and directory trees recursively
  • Supports JSON configuration, parallel processing, and in-place formatting
  • Includes APIs and Swift Package Manager formatting and linting plugins
• Where it doesn't
  • Supports Swift only
  • Verified platform coverage is limited to macOS and iOS
  • Its scope centers on formatting and linting rather than broader code tooling

swift-format fact sheet, pricing and score →

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Last updated 7 Oct 2026 · How we research and update