fs-extra vs ncp vs copyfiles vs cpx vs copy-dir
File and Directory Copying Comparison
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What's File and Directory Copying?

File and Directory Copying libraries in Node.js provide developers with tools to copy files and directories programmatically. These libraries offer various features such as recursive copying, preserving file attributes, handling symbolic links, and providing progress callbacks. They are useful for tasks like building automation, file management, and creating deployment scripts. Each library has its own set of features, performance characteristics, and API designs, catering to different use cases and preferences.

Package Weekly Downloads Trend
Github Stars Ranking
Stat Detail
Package
Downloads
Stars
Size
Issues
Publish
License
fs-extra111,478,294
9,58655.5 kB18a month agoMIT
ncp3,805,874
684-8011 years agoMIT
copyfiles1,679,478
421-575 years agoMIT
cpx324,000
531-359 years agoMIT
copy-dir86,197
---5 years agoMIT
Feature Comparison: fs-extra vs ncp vs copyfiles vs cpx vs copy-dir

Recursive Copying

  • fs-extra:

    fs-extra offers robust recursive copying capabilities, including the ability to copy entire directories while preserving file attributes and structure.

  • ncp:

    ncp specializes in recursive copying, preserving file attributes, and handling symbolic links, making it efficient for comprehensive directory copying.

  • copyfiles:

    copyfiles supports recursive copying of files and directories using glob patterns, allowing for selective copying based on file matching.

  • cpx:

    cpx supports recursive copying of files and directories, with the added feature of watching for changes and copying incrementally.

  • copy-dir:

    copy-dir provides simple recursive copying of directories, making it easy to copy all contents without additional configuration.

File Attribute Preservation

  • fs-extra:

    fs-extra excels at preserving file attributes, including timestamps, permissions, and symbolic links, providing a more complete file copying solution.

  • ncp:

    ncp preserves file attributes, including timestamps and symbolic links, ensuring that the copied files maintain their original characteristics.

  • copyfiles:

    copyfiles does not focus on preserving file attributes; its primary feature is copying files based on glob patterns.

  • cpx:

    cpx preserves file attributes during copying, but its main focus is on watching files and copying them when changes occur.

  • copy-dir:

    copy-dir preserves basic file attributes during copying, but it does not explicitly handle symbolic links or advanced attributes.

Command-Line Interface (CLI)

  • fs-extra:

    fs-extra does not have a dedicated CLI, but it extends the fs module, allowing its methods to be used in any Node.js script.

  • ncp:

    ncp does not provide a CLI; it is designed to be used as a programmatic library within Node.js applications.

  • copyfiles:

    copyfiles offers a powerful CLI for copying files and directories, making it easy to integrate into build scripts and automation tasks.

  • cpx:

    cpx provides a simple CLI for copying files and directories, with options for watching and incremental copying, making it user-friendly for developers.

  • copy-dir:

    copy-dir does not provide a built-in CLI; it is primarily a programmatic library for use in Node.js applications.

Watching for Changes

  • fs-extra:

    fs-extra does not have built-in change-watching capabilities; it is focused on enhancing file system operations in Node.js.

  • ncp:

    ncp does not support watching for changes; it is designed for one-time recursive copying of files and directories.

  • copyfiles:

    copyfiles does not include change-watching features; it focuses on copying files based on specified patterns.

  • cpx:

    cpx includes built-in support for watching files and directories, automatically copying them when changes are detected, which is useful for development workflows.

  • copy-dir:

    copy-dir does not support watching for changes; it is a straightforward copying library without real-time capabilities.

Ease of Use: Code Examples

  • fs-extra:

    Comprehensive File Operations with fs-extra

    const fs = require('fs-extra');

fs.copy('sourceDir', 'destDir', (err) => {
  if (err) throw err;
  console.log('Directory copied with attributes!');
});
  • ncp:

    Simple Recursive Copying with ncp

    const ncp = require('ncp').ncp;

ncp('sourceDir', 'destDir', (err) => {
  if (err) return console.error(err);
  console.log('Directory copied successfully!');
});
  • copyfiles:

    File Copying with Glob Patterns using copyfiles

    const copyfiles = require('copyfiles');

copyfiles(['src/*.js', 'src/styles/*.css'], 'dist', (err) => {
  if (err) throw err;
  console.log('Files copied successfully!');
});
  • cpx:

    Incremental Copying with Change Watching using cpx

    const cpx = require('cpx');

cpx.copy('src/**/*', 'dest', { watch: true }, () => {
  console.log('Files copied and watching for changes!');
});
  • copy-dir:

    Simple Directory Copying with copy-dir

    const copyDir = require('copy-dir');

copyDir('sourceDir', 'destDir', (err) => {
  if (err) throw err;
  console.log('Directory copied successfully!');
});
How to Choose: fs-extra vs ncp vs copyfiles vs cpx vs copy-dir
  • fs-extra:

    Choose fs-extra if you need a comprehensive file system library that extends the built-in fs module with additional features like recursive directory copying, file moving, and more. It is suitable for projects that require robust file system operations beyond just copying.

  • ncp:

    Select ncp if you need a simple and efficient solution for recursively copying files and directories, especially if you want to preserve file attributes and handle symbolic links. It is lightweight and easy to use for quick copying tasks.

  • copyfiles:

    Select copyfiles if you require a command-line tool for copying files and directories with support for glob patterns, including the ability to create target directories automatically. It is great for build scripts and automation tasks.

  • cpx:

    Opt for cpx if you want a tool that supports one-way file and directory copying with built-in support for watching files and incremental copying. It is useful for development workflows where you need to keep directories in sync.

  • copy-dir:

    Choose copy-dir if you need a simple and lightweight solution for recursively copying directories with minimal configuration. It is ideal for straightforward copying tasks without additional dependencies.

Similar Npm Packages to fs-extra

fs-extra is a popular Node.js package that extends the built-in fs (file system) module with additional methods and functionalities. It provides a more convenient and powerful API for file and directory manipulation, making it easier to handle common tasks like copying, moving, and removing files. With fs-extra, developers can work with promises or callbacks, enabling a more flexible approach to file operations.

While fs-extra is a robust choice for file system operations, there are alternatives available that may better suit specific needs:

  • fs is the built-in Node.js file system module. It provides a comprehensive set of methods for interacting with the file system, including reading and writing files, creating directories, and more. However, it lacks some of the convenience methods found in fs-extra, such as recursive directory creation or file copying with additional options. If you only need basic file system operations and prefer to stick with the core Node.js modules, using fs might be sufficient for your needs.
  • fs-extra-promise is a variant of fs-extra that focuses on providing promise-based methods for file system operations. This package allows developers to work with promises instead of callbacks, making it easier to manage asynchronous operations. If you prefer using promises for handling file system tasks and want to leverage the additional features of fs-extra, fs-extra-promise is a great option.

To see how fs-extra compares with fs and fs-extra-promise, check out the comparison: Comparing fs vs fs-extra vs fs-extra-promise.

Similar Npm Packages to ncp

ncp is a Node.js package that provides a simple way to copy files and directories from one location to another. It is particularly useful for tasks involving file manipulation in build scripts or automation processes. While ncp is a solid choice for copying files, there are several alternatives that offer similar functionality. Here are a few notable options:

  • copy-dir is a straightforward package designed specifically for copying directories. It provides a simple API for copying files and directories recursively while allowing for options such as filtering files and handling errors. If you need a focused solution for directory copying without additional features, copy-dir is a great choice.
  • copyfiles is another lightweight utility for copying files and directories. It supports glob patterns, making it easy to specify which files to copy. This package is particularly useful for developers who want a simple command-line tool to copy files based on patterns, making it ideal for build processes or project setups.
  • cpx is a command-line utility that allows you to copy files and directories with support for glob patterns and watching for changes. It is particularly useful in development environments where you want to automatically copy files when they change. If you need a tool that combines file copying with file watching capabilities, cpx is worth considering.
  • fs-extra is an extension of the built-in Node.js fs module that adds additional methods for file manipulation, including copying files and directories. It combines the functionality of fs with additional features, making it a versatile choice for developers who need more than just file copying. If you are looking for a comprehensive file system utility that includes copying as one of many features, fs-extra is an excellent option.

To see how ncp compares with copy-dir, copyfiles, cpx, and fs-extra, check out the comparison: Comparing copy-dir vs copyfiles vs cpx vs fs-extra vs ncp.

Similar Npm Packages to copyfiles

copyfiles is a simple command-line utility for copying files and directories in Node.js projects. It is particularly useful for build processes where you need to copy assets from one location to another, such as moving images, stylesheets, or other static files to a distribution folder. With its straightforward syntax, copyfiles allows developers to specify source and destination paths easily, making it a popular choice for many projects.

While copyfiles is a great tool for file copying, there are several alternatives that offer similar functionalities, each with its own unique features:

  • copy-webpack-plugin is a webpack plugin that allows you to copy files and directories from one location to another as part of your webpack build process. It is particularly useful for copying static assets to your output directory, ensuring that all necessary files are included in your final build. If you are already using webpack for your project, this plugin integrates seamlessly into your build pipeline.
  • fs-extra is an extension of the native Node.js fs module that adds additional methods for file manipulation, including copying files and directories. It provides a promise-based API and is suitable for both simple and complex file operations. If you need more than just copying files—like removing, moving, or reading directories—fs-extra is a versatile choice that enhances the built-in file system capabilities of Node.js.
  • grunt-contrib-copy is a Grunt plugin that provides file copying capabilities as part of your Grunt build process. It allows you to specify files to copy and their destinations, making it easy to manage assets in a Grunt-based workflow. If your project uses Grunt for task automation, this plugin is a natural fit for handling file copying.
  • gulp-copy is a Gulp plugin that enables file copying within a Gulp build process. It allows you to specify source files and their destinations, making it easy to include assets in your build pipeline. If you prefer using Gulp for task automation, gulp-copy provides a simple and effective way to manage file copying.
  • ncp is a Node.js module that provides a simple way to copy files and directories recursively. It is designed to be straightforward and easy to use, making it a good choice for projects that require basic file copying functionality without the overhead of a build tool. If you need a lightweight solution for copying files in your Node.js applications, ncp is worth considering.

To compare these packages, check out the following link: Comparing copy-webpack-plugin vs copyfiles vs fs-extra vs grunt-contrib-copy vs gulp-copy vs ncp.

Similar Npm Packages to cpx

cpx is a command-line utility for copying files and directories in Node.js applications. It is particularly useful for tasks such as copying assets during build processes or when setting up development environments. With its ability to watch files and automatically copy them when changes occur, cpx simplifies the workflow for developers who need to manage file copying efficiently. However, there are several alternatives available that also provide file copying functionalities. Here are a few notable options:

  • copyfiles is a simple and straightforward command-line tool for copying files and directories. It supports glob patterns, making it easy to specify which files to copy. copyfiles is designed to be lightweight and easy to use, making it a great choice for developers who need a quick solution for copying files without the additional features that come with more complex libraries.
  • fs-extra is an extension of the built-in fs module in Node.js, adding extra methods for file and directory manipulation. It includes methods for copying files and directories, as well as other file system operations like moving, removing, and reading files. fs-extra is ideal for developers who want a comprehensive file system utility that combines the functionality of the native fs module with additional features, making it a versatile choice for various file operations.
  • ncp stands for "Node Copy," and it is a simple utility for copying files and directories in Node.js. It is designed to be easy to use and provides a straightforward API for copying files, including support for copying symbolic links. While ncp is less feature-rich compared to some alternatives, it is a solid choice for developers who need a basic file copying solution without any additional overhead.

For a detailed comparison of these packages, check out the following link: Comparing copyfiles vs cpx vs fs-extra vs ncp.

Similar Npm Packages to copy-dir

copy-dir is an npm package that provides a simple and efficient way to copy directories and their contents from one location to another. It is particularly useful for developers who need to manage file structures in their projects, such as copying assets, configurations, or build outputs. While copy-dir is a solid choice for directory copying, there are several alternatives available that offer similar functionality. Here are a few noteworthy options:

  • copyfiles is a command-line utility that allows you to copy files and directories easily. It supports glob patterns, making it flexible for various use cases. If you need a straightforward solution for copying files with the ability to use patterns for selection, copyfiles is a great choice. It is particularly useful for build scripts where you want to copy specific files without the overhead of a more complex library.

  • cpx is another utility designed for copying files and directories. It supports glob patterns and can watch files for changes, automatically copying them when modifications occur. This makes cpx an excellent option for development environments where you want to keep a directory in sync with another. Its simplicity and ability to watch files make it a popular choice among developers.

  • fs-extra is a powerful module that extends the built-in Node.js fs (file system) module with additional methods, including directory copying. It provides a wide range of file system operations, making it a versatile tool for managing files and directories. If you need more than just directory copying and want a comprehensive file system utility, fs-extra is a robust option.

  • ncp is a simple utility for copying directories and their contents. It is straightforward to use and can handle large directories efficiently. While it may not have as many features as some other options, its simplicity makes it a good choice for quick directory copying tasks.

  • rimraf is primarily a tool for deleting files and directories, similar to the Unix command rm -rf. While it does not directly copy directories, it is often used in conjunction with other tools to clean up directories before performing copy operations. If your workflow involves cleaning up directories before copying, rimraf can be a valuable addition to your toolkit.

To explore how these packages compare, check out the comparison: Comparing copy-dir vs copyfiles vs cpx vs fs-extra vs ncp vs rimraf.

README for fs-extra

Node.js: fs-extra

fs-extra adds file system methods that aren't included in the native fs module and adds promise support to the fs methods. It also uses graceful-fs to prevent EMFILE errors. It should be a drop in replacement for fs.

npm Package License build status downloads per month JavaScript Style Guide

Why?

I got tired of including mkdirp, rimraf, and ncp in most of my projects.

Installation

npm install fs-extra

Usage

CommonJS

fs-extra is a drop in replacement for native fs. All methods in fs are attached to fs-extra. All fs methods return promises if the callback isn't passed.

You don't ever need to include the original fs module again:

const fs = require('fs') // this is no longer necessary

you can now do this:

const fs = require('fs-extra')

or if you prefer to make it clear that you're using fs-extra and not fs, you may want to name your fs variable fse like so:

const fse = require('fs-extra')

you can also keep both, but it's redundant:

const fs = require('fs')
const fse = require('fs-extra')

NOTE: The deprecated constants fs.F_OK, fs.R_OK, fs.W_OK, & fs.X_OK are not exported on Node.js v24.0.0+; please use their fs.constants equivalents.

ESM

There is also an fs-extra/esm import, that supports both default and named exports. However, note that fs methods are not included in fs-extra/esm; you still need to import fs and/or fs/promises seperately:

import { readFileSync } from 'fs'
import { readFile } from 'fs/promises'
import { outputFile, outputFileSync } from 'fs-extra/esm'

Default exports are supported:

import fs from 'fs'
import fse from 'fs-extra/esm'
// fse.readFileSync is not a function; must use fs.readFileSync

but you probably want to just use regular fs-extra instead of fs-extra/esm for default exports:

import fs from 'fs-extra'
// both fs and fs-extra methods are defined

Sync vs Async vs Async/Await

Most methods are async by default. All async methods will return a promise if the callback isn't passed.

Sync methods on the other hand will throw if an error occurs.

Also Async/Await will throw an error if one occurs.

Example:

const fs = require('fs-extra')

// Async with promises:
fs.copy('/tmp/myfile', '/tmp/mynewfile')
  .then(() => console.log('success!'))
  .catch(err => console.error(err))

// Async with callbacks:
fs.copy('/tmp/myfile', '/tmp/mynewfile', err => {
  if (err) return console.error(err)
  console.log('success!')
})

// Sync:
try {
  fs.copySync('/tmp/myfile', '/tmp/mynewfile')
  console.log('success!')
} catch (err) {
  console.error(err)
}

// Async/Await:
async function copyFiles () {
  try {
    await fs.copy('/tmp/myfile', '/tmp/mynewfile')
    console.log('success!')
  } catch (err) {
    console.error(err)
  }
}

copyFiles()

Methods

Async

Sync

NOTE: You can still use the native Node.js methods. They are promisified and copied over to fs-extra. See notes on fs.read(), fs.write(), & fs.writev()

What happened to walk() and walkSync()?

They were removed from fs-extra in v2.0.0. If you need the functionality, walk and walkSync are available as separate packages, klaw and klaw-sync.

Third Party

CLI

fse-cli allows you to run fs-extra from a console or from npm scripts.

TypeScript

If you like TypeScript, you can use fs-extra with it: https://github.com/DefinitelyTyped/DefinitelyTyped/tree/master/types/fs-extra

File / Directory Watching

If you want to watch for changes to files or directories, then you should use chokidar.

Obtain Filesystem (Devices, Partitions) Information

fs-filesystem allows you to read the state of the filesystem of the host on which it is run. It returns information about both the devices and the partitions (volumes) of the system.

Misc.

Hacking on fs-extra

Wanna hack on fs-extra? Great! Your help is needed! fs-extra is one of the most depended upon Node.js packages. This project uses JavaScript Standard Style - if the name or style choices bother you, you're gonna have to get over it :) If standard is good enough for npm, it's good enough for fs-extra.

js-standard-style

What's needed?

  • First, take a look at existing issues. Those are probably going to be where the priority lies.
  • More tests for edge cases. Specifically on different platforms. There can never be enough tests.
  • Improve test coverage.

Note: If you make any big changes, you should definitely file an issue for discussion first.

Running the Test Suite

fs-extra contains hundreds of tests.

  • npm run lint: runs the linter (standard)
  • npm run unit: runs the unit tests
  • npm run unit-esm: runs tests for fs-extra/esm exports
  • npm test: runs the linter and all tests

When running unit tests, set the environment variable CROSS_DEVICE_PATH to the absolute path of an empty directory on another device (like a thumb drive) to enable cross-device move tests.

Windows

If you run the tests on the Windows and receive a lot of symbolic link EPERM permission errors, it's because on Windows you need elevated privilege to create symbolic links. You can add this to your Windows's account by following the instructions here: http://superuser.com/questions/104845/permission-to-make-symbolic-links-in-windows-7 However, I didn't have much luck doing this.

Since I develop on Mac OS X, I use VMWare Fusion for Windows testing. I create a shared folder that I map to a drive on Windows. I open the Node.js command prompt and run as Administrator. I then map the network drive running the following command:

net use z: "\\vmware-host\Shared Folders"

I can then navigate to my fs-extra directory and run the tests.

Naming

I put a lot of thought into the naming of these functions. Inspired by @coolaj86's request. So he deserves much of the credit for raising the issue. See discussion(s) here:

  • https://github.com/jprichardson/node-fs-extra/issues/2
  • https://github.com/flatiron/utile/issues/11
  • https://github.com/ryanmcgrath/wrench-js/issues/29
  • https://github.com/substack/node-mkdirp/issues/17

First, I believe that in as many cases as possible, the Node.js naming schemes should be chosen. However, there are problems with the Node.js own naming schemes.

For example, fs.readFile() and fs.readdir(): the F is capitalized in File and the d is not capitalized in dir. Perhaps a bit pedantic, but they should still be consistent. Also, Node.js has chosen a lot of POSIX naming schemes, which I believe is great. See: fs.mkdir(), fs.rmdir(), fs.chown(), etc.

We have a dilemma though. How do you consistently name methods that perform the following POSIX commands: cp, cp -r, mkdir -p, and rm -rf?

My perspective: when in doubt, err on the side of simplicity. A directory is just a hierarchical grouping of directories and files. Consider that for a moment. So when you want to copy it or remove it, in most cases you'll want to copy or remove all of its contents. When you want to create a directory, if the directory that it's suppose to be contained in does not exist, then in most cases you'll want to create that too.

So, if you want to remove a file or a directory regardless of whether it has contents, just call fs.remove(path). If you want to copy a file or a directory whether it has contents, just call fs.copy(source, destination). If you want to create a directory regardless of whether its parent directories exist, just call fs.mkdirs(path) or fs.mkdirp(path).

Credit

fs-extra wouldn't be possible without using the modules from the following authors:

License

Licensed under MIT

Copyright (c) 2011-2024 JP Richardson

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