rollup vs webpack vs browserify vs gulp vs parcel-bundler
JavaScript Bundlers and Task Runners Comparison
Search packages..
1 Year
rollupwebpackbrowserifygulpparcel-bundlerSimilar Packages:
What's JavaScript Bundlers and Task Runners?

JavaScript bundlers and task runners are essential tools in modern web development that help manage and optimize assets, scripts, and stylesheets for web applications. They streamline the development process by automating tasks such as file concatenation, minification, transpilation, and module resolution. These tools enhance performance by reducing the number of HTTP requests and optimizing the delivery of resources, ultimately improving load times and user experience. Choosing the right tool can significantly impact the efficiency of the development workflow and the performance of the final application.

Package Weekly Downloads Trend
Github Stars Ranking
Stat Detail
Package
Downloads
Stars
Size
Issues
Publish
License
rollup34,663,19925,6912.72 MB5916 days agoMIT
webpack29,497,91665,1815.28 MB2398 hours agoMIT
browserify1,562,36814,669363 kB3966 months agoMIT
gulp1,551,70233,08311.2 kB36a year agoMIT
parcel-bundler43,59943,751-5994 years agoMIT
Feature Comparison: rollup vs webpack vs browserify vs gulp vs parcel-bundler

Module System Support

  • rollup:

    Rollup is designed specifically for ES modules and offers advanced features like tree-shaking to eliminate unused code, resulting in smaller and more efficient bundles.

  • webpack:

    Webpack supports various module systems, including CommonJS, AMD, and ES modules. It provides extensive configuration options to tailor the module resolution process to the project's needs.

  • browserify:

    Browserify supports the CommonJS module system, allowing developers to use Node.js-style require() statements in the browser. This makes it easy to manage dependencies and modularize code effectively.

  • gulp:

    Gulp does not impose a specific module system but can work with any JavaScript code. It focuses on task automation rather than module bundling, allowing developers to integrate various module systems as needed.

  • parcel-bundler:

    Parcel supports ES modules out of the box and automatically handles module resolution without requiring configuration, making it user-friendly for modern JavaScript projects.

Configuration Complexity

  • rollup:

    Rollup requires a configuration file for advanced features, but its configuration is generally simpler compared to Webpack. It is designed to be user-friendly while still offering powerful capabilities.

  • webpack:

    Webpack has a steep learning curve due to its extensive configuration options. While it offers powerful features, setting it up can be complex and may require a deeper understanding of its ecosystem.

  • browserify:

    Browserify is relatively straightforward to configure, requiring minimal setup to get started. It focuses on bundling JavaScript files without extensive configuration options.

  • gulp:

    Gulp requires some configuration through JavaScript code, which can be more complex than other task runners but allows for greater flexibility and control over the build process.

  • parcel-bundler:

    Parcel is known for its zero-configuration approach, making it easy to use for beginners. It automatically detects file types and applies the necessary transformations without requiring extensive setup.

Performance Optimization

  • rollup:

    Rollup excels in performance optimization, particularly for libraries, due to its tree-shaking capabilities that eliminate dead code and create smaller bundles.

  • webpack:

    Webpack offers extensive performance optimization features, including code splitting, lazy loading, and caching strategies, making it suitable for large-scale applications.

  • browserify:

    Browserify provides basic optimization features, but it may not be as efficient as other tools in handling large codebases or advanced optimizations like tree-shaking.

  • gulp:

    Gulp can be optimized for performance through its streaming build system, allowing for faster file processing and reduced build times. However, optimization depends on the tasks defined by the developer.

  • parcel-bundler:

    Parcel automatically optimizes builds for performance, including features like code splitting and asset optimization, without requiring manual configuration.

Ecosystem and Community Support

  • rollup:

    Rollup has a dedicated community focused on library development, and while its ecosystem is smaller, it is well-regarded for producing optimized bundles.

  • webpack:

    Webpack has a large and active community, with a rich ecosystem of plugins and loaders that extend its functionality. It is widely used in the industry, making it a safe choice for complex projects.

  • browserify:

    Browserify has a smaller ecosystem compared to other tools but is well-supported for projects that require simple module bundling.

  • gulp:

    Gulp has a robust ecosystem with a wide range of plugins available for various tasks, making it a popular choice among developers for task automation.

  • parcel-bundler:

    Parcel is gaining popularity and has a growing community, but its ecosystem is not as extensive as Webpack or Gulp. It is ideal for projects that prioritize ease of use.

Learning Curve

  • rollup:

    Rollup has a moderate learning curve, particularly for those unfamiliar with ES modules, but its focus on simplicity makes it approachable for many developers.

  • webpack:

    Webpack has a steep learning curve due to its complexity and extensive configuration options. It requires a significant investment of time to master, especially for beginners.

  • browserify:

    Browserify is easy to learn for developers familiar with Node.js and CommonJS, making it accessible for those transitioning to front-end development.

  • gulp:

    Gulp has a moderate learning curve, especially for developers new to task runners, but its code-based configuration can be intuitive for JavaScript developers.

  • parcel-bundler:

    Parcel is designed for ease of use, making it beginner-friendly with minimal setup required. It is an excellent choice for developers new to bundling.

How to Choose: rollup vs webpack vs browserify vs gulp vs parcel-bundler
  • rollup:

    Choose Rollup if you are focused on building libraries or applications that require tree-shaking capabilities to eliminate dead code. Rollup excels at producing optimized bundles with a focus on ES modules, making it suitable for modern JavaScript development.

  • webpack:

    Choose Webpack if you need a powerful and flexible module bundler that supports a wide range of features, such as code splitting, hot module replacement, and extensive plugin support. It is ideal for large-scale applications where performance optimization and customization are critical.

  • browserify:

    Choose Browserify if you need a simple solution for bundling JavaScript modules that follow the CommonJS module system. It is particularly useful for projects that require compatibility with Node.js-style modules and want to leverage npm packages directly in the browser.

  • gulp:

    Choose Gulp if you prefer a code-over-configuration approach and need a task runner that allows for fine-grained control over your build process. Gulp uses a streaming build system, which can lead to faster builds and more efficient file handling, making it ideal for complex workflows.

  • parcel-bundler:

    Choose Parcel if you want a zero-configuration bundler that automatically handles many tasks for you, such as transpilation and asset optimization. It is great for rapid prototyping and smaller projects where you want to get started quickly without extensive setup.

Similar Npm Packages to rollup

rollup is a module bundler for JavaScript applications, designed to optimize the process of packaging and serving code. It is particularly well-suited for libraries and applications that utilize ES modules, as it can produce smaller and more efficient bundles by leveraging tree-shaking capabilities. Rollup allows developers to write modular code while ensuring that the final output is optimized for performance, making it a popular choice for building libraries and applications.

While Rollup is a powerful tool, there are several alternatives in the JavaScript ecosystem that serve similar purposes. Here are a few notable ones:

  • browserify is a tool that allows developers to use Node.js-style require statements in the browser. It transforms Node-style modules into a format that can be used in the browser, enabling developers to write modular code. While Browserify is effective for smaller projects, it may not be as performant as Rollup for larger applications due to its lack of tree-shaking capabilities.

  • gulp is a task runner that automates various development tasks, including file transformations, minification, and bundling. While Gulp can be used for bundling JavaScript files, it is more focused on task automation and may require additional plugins to achieve similar functionality to Rollup. Gulp is ideal for developers looking for a flexible and customizable build process.

  • parcel is a zero-configuration web application bundler that aims to simplify the development process. It automatically handles module bundling, code splitting, and asset optimization without the need for extensive configuration. Parcel is a great choice for developers who want a quick setup and an easy-to-use bundler, although it may not provide the same level of control and optimization as Rollup for library development.

  • webpack is one of the most popular module bundlers in the JavaScript ecosystem. It offers a wide range of features, including code splitting, hot module replacement, and extensive plugin support. While Webpack is highly configurable and powerful, it can also be complex to set up and manage. For larger applications that require fine-tuned control over the build process, Webpack is often the go-to choice.

To see how Rollup compares with Browserify, Gulp, Parcel, and Webpack, check out the comparison: Comparing browserify vs gulp vs parcel vs rollup vs webpack.

Similar Npm Packages to browserify

browserify is a JavaScript tool that allows developers to use Node.js-style require() calls in the browser. It enables the bundling of multiple JavaScript files into a single file, making it easier to manage dependencies and optimize web applications. While browserify is a powerful tool for module bundling, there are several alternatives in the ecosystem that also provide similar functionalities. Here are a few notable alternatives:

  • parcel is a web application bundler that offers a zero-configuration setup, making it incredibly easy to use. Parcel automatically handles code splitting, hot module replacement, and asset optimization, allowing developers to focus on building their applications without worrying about the underlying configuration. Its fast performance and out-of-the-box support for various file types make it a great choice for developers looking for a straightforward bundling solution.
  • rollup is a module bundler specifically designed for JavaScript libraries and applications. It emphasizes the creation of small, efficient bundles and supports ES modules natively. Rollup is particularly well-suited for library authors who want to create optimized builds for distribution. Its tree-shaking capabilities help eliminate dead code, resulting in smaller bundle sizes. If your focus is on building libraries or applications that require high performance and modularity, Rollup is an excellent option.
  • webpack is one of the most popular module bundlers in the JavaScript ecosystem. It provides a highly configurable and extensible framework for bundling JavaScript applications, along with support for various asset types like CSS, images, and more. Webpack's powerful plugin system allows developers to customize the build process extensively. While it has a steeper learning curve compared to some alternatives, its flexibility and robust feature set make it a go-to choice for large-scale applications that require complex build configurations.

For a detailed comparison of these tools, check out the link: Comparing browserify vs parcel vs rollup vs webpack.

Similar Npm Packages to gulp

gulp is a popular task runner for automating repetitive tasks in web development. It allows developers to define tasks using a simple and intuitive API, enabling them to streamline their build processes, manage assets, and optimize workflows. Gulp uses streams to process files, making it efficient and fast for tasks like minification, compilation, and image optimization. While gulp is widely used, there are several alternatives that cater to different needs and preferences in the development workflow. Here are a few notable alternatives:

  • browserify is a tool that allows developers to use Node.js-style require statements in the browser, enabling modular JavaScript development. It bundles JavaScript files into a single file for use in the browser, making it easier to manage dependencies. While browserify focuses primarily on module bundling, it can be integrated with other tools to handle tasks like minification and transpilation, making it a good choice for projects that prioritize modularity.
  • grunt is another task runner that automates repetitive tasks in web development. It uses a configuration-based approach, where developers define tasks in a Gruntfile.js. While grunt provides a robust set of plugins for various tasks, its configuration can become verbose and complex for larger projects. Grunt is a solid choice for developers who prefer a more declarative style of task management.
  • parcel is a web application bundler that offers a zero-configuration setup, making it easy to get started with modern web development. Parcel automatically handles tasks like transpilation, bundling, and optimization without requiring extensive configuration. Its fast performance and built-in support for hot module replacement make it a great choice for developers looking for a straightforward and efficient build tool.
  • webpack is a powerful module bundler that has become the standard for modern JavaScript applications. It allows developers to bundle JavaScript files along with other assets like CSS and images, providing a highly customizable build process. Webpack's extensive plugin ecosystem and support for code splitting, tree shaking, and hot module replacement make it ideal for complex applications. However, its configuration can be intricate, which may pose a learning curve for newcomers.

To explore how gulp compares with browserify, grunt, parcel, and webpack, check out the comparison: Comparing browserify vs grunt vs gulp vs parcel vs webpack.

Similar Npm Packages to parcel-bundler

parcel-bundler is a web application bundler that offers a fast and zero-configuration setup for building web applications. It automatically handles tasks such as code splitting, asset optimization, and hot module replacement, making it a popular choice for developers looking for a straightforward bundling solution. While parcel-bundler provides a robust bundling experience, there are several alternatives in the ecosystem that cater to different needs. Here are a few noteworthy alternatives:

  • browserify is a tool that allows developers to use Node.js-style require() calls in the browser, enabling the use of CommonJS modules. It transforms your code into a single JavaScript file that can be included in a web page. Browserify is particularly useful for projects that rely heavily on Node.js modules and want to maintain a modular approach while ensuring compatibility with the browser environment.

  • gulp is a task runner that automates various development tasks, including bundling, minification, and image optimization. While not a bundler in the traditional sense, gulp allows developers to define workflows and automate repetitive tasks using a code-based approach. It is highly customizable and can be integrated with other tools and plugins to create a tailored build process.

  • rollup is a module bundler specifically designed for JavaScript libraries and applications. It focuses on producing smaller and more efficient bundles by leveraging ES modules. Rollup is particularly well-suited for library authors who want to create optimized builds that can be easily consumed by other projects. Its tree-shaking capabilities help eliminate unused code, resulting in leaner output files.

  • webpack is one of the most popular and powerful module bundlers in the JavaScript ecosystem. It offers a comprehensive set of features, including code splitting, lazy loading, and extensive plugin support. Webpack is highly configurable, making it suitable for both small projects and large-scale applications. Its flexibility allows developers to create complex build processes tailored to their specific needs.

To explore how parcel-bundler compares with browserify, gulp, rollup, and webpack, check out the comparison: Comparing browserify vs gulp vs parcel-bundler vs rollup vs webpack.

README for rollup

npm version node compatibility install size code coverage backers sponsors license Join the chat at https://is.gd/rollup_chat

Rollup

Overview

Rollup is a module bundler for JavaScript which compiles small pieces of code into something larger and more complex, such as a library or application. It uses the standardized ES module format for code, instead of previous idiosyncratic solutions such as CommonJS and AMD. ES modules let you freely and seamlessly combine the most useful individual functions from your favorite libraries. Rollup can optimize ES modules for faster native loading in modern browsers, or output a legacy module format allowing ES module workflows today.

Quick Start Guide

Install with npm install --global rollup. Rollup can be used either through a command line interface with an optional configuration file or else through its JavaScript API. Run rollup --help to see the available options and parameters. The starter project templates, rollup-starter-lib and rollup-starter-app, demonstrate common configuration options, and more detailed instructions are available throughout the user guide.

Commands

These commands assume the entry point to your application is named main.js, and that you'd like all imports compiled into a single file named bundle.js.

For browsers:

# compile to a <script> containing a self-executing function
rollup main.js --format iife --name "myBundle" --file bundle.js

For Node.js:

# compile to a CommonJS module
rollup main.js --format cjs --file bundle.js

For both browsers and Node.js:

# UMD format requires a bundle name
rollup main.js --format umd --name "myBundle" --file bundle.js

Why

Developing software is usually easier if you break your project into smaller separate pieces, since that often removes unexpected interactions and dramatically reduces the complexity of the problems you'll need to solve, and simply writing smaller projects in the first place isn't necessarily the answer. Unfortunately, JavaScript has not historically included this capability as a core feature in the language.

This finally changed with ES modules support in JavaScript, which provides a syntax for importing and exporting functions and data so they can be shared between separate scripts. Most browsers and Node.js support ES modules. However, Node.js releases before 12.17 support ES modules only behind the --experimental-modules flag, and older browsers like Internet Explorer do not support ES modules at all. Rollup allows you to write your code using ES modules, and run your application even in environments that do not support ES modules natively. For environments that support them, Rollup can output optimized ES modules; for environments that don't, Rollup can compile your code to other formats such as CommonJS modules, AMD modules, and IIFE-style scripts. This means that you get to write future-proof code, and you also get the tremendous benefits of...

Tree Shaking

In addition to enabling the use of ES modules, Rollup also statically analyzes and optimizes the code you are importing, and will exclude anything that isn't actually used. This allows you to build on top of existing tools and modules without adding extra dependencies or bloating the size of your project.

For example, with CommonJS, the entire tool or library must be imported.

// import the entire utils object with CommonJS
var utils = require('node:utils');
var query = 'Rollup';
// use the ajax method of the utils object
utils.ajax('https://api.example.com?search=' + query).then(handleResponse);

But with ES modules, instead of importing the whole utils object, we can just import the one ajax function we need:

// import the ajax function with an ES import statement
import { ajax } from 'node:utils';

var query = 'Rollup';
// call the ajax function
ajax('https://api.example.com?search=' + query).then(handleResponse);

Because Rollup includes the bare minimum, it results in lighter, faster, and less complicated libraries and applications. Since this approach is based on explicit import and export statements, it is vastly more effective than simply running an automated minifier to detect unused variables in the compiled output code.

Compatibility

Importing CommonJS

Rollup can import existing CommonJS modules through a plugin.

Publishing ES Modules

To make sure your ES modules are immediately usable by tools that work with CommonJS such as Node.js and webpack, you can use Rollup to compile to UMD or CommonJS format, and then point to that compiled version with the main property in your package.json file. If your package.json file also has a module field, ES-module-aware tools like Rollup and webpack will import the ES module version directly.

Contributors

This project exists thanks to all the people who contribute. [Contribute]. . If you want to contribute yourself, head over to the contribution guidelines.

Backers

Thank you to all our backers! 🙏 [Become a backer]

Sponsors

Support this project by becoming a sponsor. Your logo will show up here with a link to your website. [Become a sponsor]

Special Sponsor

TNG Logo

TNG has been supporting the work of Lukas Taegert-Atkinson on Rollup since 2017.

License

MIT

npm-compare.com is an independent website designed to help developers choose the most suitable npm packages. We are not affiliated with npm, Inc or npmjs.com, the official website for the npm registry. Please note that npm is a registered trademark of npm, Inc. For more details, please refer to our Terms & Privacy.