What is the difference between serde_json::Value and strongly typed structs?

serde_json::Value represents dynamic JSON with unknown structure at compile time, while typed structs provide compile-time guarantees. Value is an enum that can be Object, Array, String, Number, Bool, or Null—useful for flexible JSON handling. Accessing Value fields requires runtime checks and returns Option types: value["name"].as_str(). Typed structs provide direct field access: user.name with compile-time type checking. Value has runtime overhead and less efficient memory layout. Structs offer better performance and catch structural errors at compile time. Use Value for truly dynamic JSON like API responses with varying structures, configuration files, or when prototyping. Use structs when JSON structure is known and stable for type safety and performance. You can mix approaches: use Value for variable sections within typed structs. Convert between them: serde_json::from_value::<MyStruct>(value). Validate JSON structure with our JSON Viewer at jsonconsole.com/json-viewer before deciding approach. Prefer typed structs when possible for Rust safety guarantees.