sha.js vs hash.js vs crypto-js vs js-sha256
JavaScript Hashing Libraries Comparison
3 Years
sha.jshash.jscrypto-jsjs-sha256Similar Packages:
What's JavaScript Hashing Libraries?

JavaScript hashing libraries are essential tools for developers who need to generate hash values for data integrity, security, and cryptographic purposes. These libraries provide various hashing algorithms that allow developers to create unique identifiers for data, ensuring that even the slightest change in input results in a completely different hash output. This is particularly useful in applications involving password storage, data verification, and digital signatures. Each library has its own strengths and weaknesses, making it crucial to choose the right one based on specific project requirements.

Package Weekly Downloads Trend
Github Stars Ranking
Stat Detail
Package
Downloads
Stars
Size
Issues
Publish
License
sha.js14,711,548
29366.1 kB142 months ago(MIT AND BSD-3-Clause)
hash.js11,266,494
325-147 years agoMIT
crypto-js9,118,099
16,291487 kB2752 years agoMIT
js-sha2562,009,088
94539.6 kB73 months agoMIT
Feature Comparison: sha.js vs hash.js vs crypto-js vs js-sha256

Algorithm Support

  • sha.js:

    sha.js supports multiple SHA hashing algorithms, including SHA-1, SHA-256, and SHA-512. This flexibility allows developers to choose the appropriate algorithm based on their security and performance needs.

  • hash.js:

    hash.js focuses primarily on hashing algorithms, offering support for SHA-1, SHA-256, and RIPEMD160. It is designed to be lightweight and efficient, making it suitable for performance-critical applications.

  • crypto-js:

    Crypto-JS supports a wide variety of algorithms, including MD5, SHA-1, SHA-256, AES, and more. This makes it a versatile choice for applications that require both hashing and encryption functionalities.

  • js-sha256:

    js-sha256 exclusively implements the SHA-256 hashing algorithm, providing a fast and secure way to generate SHA-256 hashes. It is optimized for speed and is particularly effective for applications needing this specific algorithm.

Performance

  • sha.js:

    sha.js offers good performance across various SHA algorithms, but its efficiency may vary depending on the specific algorithm used. It is generally well-optimized for Node.js environments.

  • hash.js:

    hash.js is designed for speed and efficiency, making it one of the fastest hashing libraries available. It is particularly well-suited for applications that require rapid hash generation without additional overhead.

  • crypto-js:

    Crypto-JS is relatively heavier due to its extensive feature set, which may impact performance in scenarios where only hashing is required. However, it is still optimized for general use cases.

  • js-sha256:

    js-sha256 is highly optimized for SHA-256 hashing, ensuring quick computation times. Its performance is excellent for applications that need to generate SHA-256 hashes frequently.

Ease of Use

  • sha.js:

    sha.js provides a clear and concise API, but understanding its multiple algorithm options may require some initial learning. However, it is generally user-friendly for those familiar with hashing.

  • hash.js:

    hash.js is very easy to use, with a simple API that allows developers to quickly implement hashing functionality without much overhead. It is ideal for those looking for a no-frills solution.

  • crypto-js:

    Crypto-JS has a straightforward API, but its extensive features may require a steeper learning curve for beginners. However, once familiar, developers can leverage its full potential.

  • js-sha256:

    js-sha256 has a minimalistic API, making it easy to integrate into projects. Developers can quickly generate SHA-256 hashes with just a few lines of code.

Community and Support

  • sha.js:

    sha.js benefits from being part of the Node.js ecosystem, which provides a robust community and support. It is well-documented and regularly updated.

  • hash.js:

    hash.js has a smaller community compared to others, but it is still actively maintained. Documentation is available, but it may not be as comprehensive as larger libraries.

  • crypto-js:

    Crypto-JS has a large community and extensive documentation, making it easier to find resources and support. Its popularity ensures that it is regularly maintained and updated.

  • js-sha256:

    js-sha256 has a focused community centered around its specific use case. While documentation is available, it may not be as extensive as more comprehensive libraries.

Security Features

  • sha.js:

    sha.js offers secure hashing capabilities across multiple SHA algorithms, making it a reliable choice for applications needing strong hash functions.

  • hash.js:

    hash.js focuses solely on hashing and does not include encryption features, which may limit its use in applications requiring comprehensive security solutions.

  • crypto-js:

    Crypto-JS includes various security features, such as encryption and decryption, making it suitable for applications that require both hashing and secure data handling.

  • js-sha256:

    js-sha256 is designed specifically for secure hashing, ensuring that it adheres to the standards of SHA-256. It does not provide additional security features beyond hashing.

How to Choose: sha.js vs hash.js vs crypto-js vs js-sha256
  • sha.js:

    Use sha.js if you require a library that supports multiple SHA algorithms (SHA-1, SHA-256, SHA-512, etc.) and is designed for Node.js environments. It is beneficial for projects that need flexibility in choosing different SHA variants.

  • hash.js:

    Select hash.js for a lightweight and straightforward hashing solution that focuses on performance and simplicity. It is ideal for projects that require fast hashing without the overhead of additional cryptographic features.

  • crypto-js:

    Choose Crypto-JS if you need a comprehensive library that supports a wide range of cryptographic algorithms beyond just hashing, including encryption and decryption functionalities. It is suitable for applications requiring both hashing and encryption capabilities.

  • js-sha256:

    Opt for js-sha256 if you specifically need SHA-256 hashing. This library is optimized for performance and is particularly useful for applications that require a secure hash function with a strong collision resistance.

README for sha.js

sha.js

NPM Package Build Status Dependency status

js-standard-style

Node style SHA on pure JavaScript.

var shajs = require('sha.js')

console.log(shajs('sha256').update('42').digest('hex'))
// => 73475cb40a568e8da8a045ced110137e159f890ac4da883b6b17dc651b3a8049
console.log(new shajs.sha256().update('42').digest('hex'))
// => 73475cb40a568e8da8a045ced110137e159f890ac4da883b6b17dc651b3a8049

var sha256stream = shajs('sha256')
sha256stream.end('42')
console.log(sha256stream.read().toString('hex'))
// => 73475cb40a568e8da8a045ced110137e159f890ac4da883b6b17dc651b3a8049

supported hashes

sha.js currently implements:

  • SHA (SHA-0) -- legacy, do not use in new systems
  • SHA-1 -- legacy, do not use in new systems
  • SHA-224
  • SHA-256
  • SHA-384
  • SHA-512

Not an actual stream

Note, this doesn't actually implement a stream, but wrapping this in a stream is trivial. It does update incrementally, so you can hash things larger than RAM, as it uses a constant amount of memory (except when using base64 or utf8 encoding, see code comments).

Acknowledgements

This work is derived from Paul Johnston's A JavaScript implementation of the Secure Hash Algorithm.

LICENSE MIT AND BSD-3-Clause