immer vs clone vs fast-copy vs rfdc
JavaScript Object Cloning Libraries
immerclonefast-copyrfdcSimilar Packages:

JavaScript Object Cloning Libraries

JavaScript object cloning libraries are essential tools for developers who need to create deep copies of objects without mutating the original data. These libraries provide various methods for cloning, each with its own performance characteristics, mutability handling, and ease of use. They are particularly useful in state management scenarios, where immutability is crucial for predictable state updates and efficient rendering in frameworks like React. Understanding the differences between these libraries can help developers choose the right tool for their specific use case, balancing performance, simplicity, and functionality.

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immer40,054,01728,908913 kB572 months agoMIT
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rfdc069527.1 kB222 years agoMIT

Feature Comparison: immer vs clone vs fast-copy vs rfdc

Performance

  • immer:

    Immer is not primarily a cloning library but rather a state management tool that allows for immutable updates. Its performance is excellent for state updates, but it may not be as fast as dedicated cloning libraries for deep copies.

  • clone:

    The clone package is relatively straightforward and performs adequately for basic use cases. However, it may not be the fastest option for large or complex objects due to its simplicity.

  • fast-copy:

    Fast-copy is designed with performance in mind, making it one of the fastest cloning libraries available. It employs optimized algorithms to handle various data structures efficiently, making it suitable for performance-critical applications.

  • rfdc:

    Rfdc is highly optimized for speed and can handle deep cloning with circular references efficiently. It is one of the fastest options available, making it ideal for applications that require frequent cloning.

Mutability Handling

  • immer:

    Immer allows you to write code that appears to mutate the state but actually creates a new immutable state. This approach simplifies working with nested objects while ensuring immutability is preserved.

  • clone:

    Clone creates a deep copy of the object, ensuring that the original object remains unchanged. It is a straightforward approach to achieving immutability without additional complexity.

  • fast-copy:

    Fast-copy also creates deep copies, ensuring that the original object is not mutated. It is efficient in handling various data types while maintaining immutability.

  • rfdc:

    Rfdc focuses on deep cloning without mutating the original object. It effectively handles complex structures, ensuring that the original data remains intact.

Ease of Use

  • immer:

    Immer has a slightly steeper learning curve due to its unique approach to immutability. However, once understood, it simplifies state management significantly, especially in complex applications.

  • clone:

    Clone is very easy to use, with a simple API that requires minimal setup. It is suitable for developers who need a quick solution without additional complexity.

  • fast-copy:

    Fast-copy has a straightforward API, but its performance optimizations may require some understanding of its usage patterns to fully leverage its capabilities.

  • rfdc:

    Rfdc is easy to use but may require some familiarity with its performance optimizations to get the most out of it. Its API is straightforward, making it accessible to most developers.

Circular Reference Support

  • immer:

    Immer does not directly deal with cloning but allows for immutable updates. Circular references are managed within the context of state updates, making it suitable for complex state management scenarios.

  • clone:

    Clone does not handle circular references well, which can lead to errors or unexpected behavior when cloning objects with circular dependencies.

  • fast-copy:

    Fast-copy can handle circular references, making it a robust choice for complex data structures that may include loops or references to parent objects.

  • rfdc:

    Rfdc is designed to handle circular references efficiently, ensuring that deep cloning works correctly even with complex object graphs.

Use Cases

  • immer:

    Immer is perfect for applications using state management libraries like Redux, where immutable updates are necessary for predictable state changes.

  • clone:

    Clone is best suited for simple applications where deep cloning is needed without additional features or performance considerations.

  • fast-copy:

    Fast-copy is ideal for performance-critical applications that require frequent cloning of large or complex objects, such as in data-heavy applications.

  • rfdc:

    Rfdc is suitable for scenarios requiring frequent deep cloning of complex data structures, especially when performance is a priority.

How to Choose: immer vs clone vs fast-copy vs rfdc

  • immer:

    Choose immer if you are working with immutable state management and want to simplify the process of updating nested objects. Immer allows you to write code that appears to mutate state while maintaining immutability, making it perfect for Redux or similar state management libraries.

  • clone:

    Choose clone if you need a simple and straightforward solution for deep cloning objects without additional features. It is lightweight and easy to use, making it suitable for small projects or when minimal dependencies are preferred.

  • fast-copy:

    Choose fast-copy if performance is a critical factor in your application. It is optimized for speed and can handle complex data structures efficiently. This package is ideal for applications that require frequent cloning of large objects or arrays.

  • rfdc:

    Choose rfdc if you need a highly efficient cloning solution that can handle circular references and complex data types. It is designed for performance and can be particularly useful in scenarios where deep cloning is frequently required.

README for immer

Immer

npm Build Status Coverage Status code style: prettier OpenCollective OpenCollective Gitpod Ready-to-Code

Create the next immutable state tree by simply modifying the current tree

Winner of the "Breakthrough of the year" React open source award and "Most impactful contribution" JavaScript open source award in 2019

Contribute using one-click online setup

You can use Gitpod (a free online VSCode like IDE) for contributing online. With a single click it will launch a workspace and automatically:

  • clone the immer repo.
  • install the dependencies.
  • run yarn run start.

so that you can start coding straight away.

Open in Gitpod

Documentation

The documentation of this package is hosted at https://immerjs.github.io/immer/

Support

Did Immer make a difference to your project? Join the open collective at https://opencollective.com/immer!

Release notes

https://github.com/immerjs/immer/releases