Sass and CSS Preprocessors Comparison
sass vs postcss-scss vs node-sass vs scss vs dart-sass
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What's Sass and CSS Preprocessors?

Sass (Syntactically Awesome Style Sheets) is a preprocessor scripting language that is interpreted or compiled into Cascading Style Sheets (CSS). It allows for more dynamic stylesheets with features like variables, nesting, and mixins. The packages listed provide different implementations and functionalities for using Sass in web development, each with its own strengths and use cases. Understanding the differences can help developers choose the right tool for their projects, whether they need a pure Sass implementation, a Node.js binding, or integration with PostCSS.

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sass13,550,3233,9955.66 MB7012 days agoMIT
postcss-scss3,641,61565819.4 kB2a year agoMIT
node-sass1,262,5698,5061.83 MB1872 years agoMIT
scss27,354---13 years ago-
dart-sass15,6633,995-705 years agoMIT
Feature Comparison: sass vs postcss-scss vs node-sass vs scss vs dart-sass

Implementation

  • sass:

    Sass is the original syntax that introduced the Sass language. It is less commonly used now compared to SCSS but is still available for those who prefer its indentation-based syntax. It compiles to CSS and supports all Sass features, though it may not be as user-friendly for those familiar with traditional CSS.

  • postcss-scss:

    PostCSS-SCSS is a PostCSS plugin that allows you to write SCSS syntax while utilizing the PostCSS ecosystem. This means you can take advantage of PostCSS plugins for tasks like autoprefixing, minification, and linting, providing a flexible and powerful workflow for CSS processing.

  • node-sass:

    Node Sass is a library that provides binding for Node.js to LibSass, which is a C/C++ implementation of Sass. It is known for its speed due to native compilation, but it may lag behind Dart Sass in terms of feature support. It is suitable for production environments where performance is a priority.

  • scss:

    SCSS (Sassy CSS) is a syntax of Sass that is fully compatible with CSS. It allows developers to write styles in a familiar CSS-like format while still using Sass features like variables, nesting, and mixins. This makes it a popular choice for developers transitioning from CSS.

  • dart-sass:

    Dart Sass is the reference implementation of Sass, written in Dart. It is actively maintained and supports all the latest features of the Sass language. It compiles Sass to CSS using a pure Dart implementation, which is cross-platform and does not require native bindings, making it easy to install and use.

Performance

  • sass:

    Sass has a straightforward compilation process, but its performance can vary based on the complexity of the stylesheets being compiled. It is generally efficient for small to medium projects but may require optimization for larger codebases.

  • postcss-scss:

    The performance of PostCSS-SCSS depends on the PostCSS plugins used in the workflow. While it may not be as fast as Node Sass for pure Sass compilation, it offers flexibility and can be optimized with various plugins to enhance performance in different scenarios.

  • node-sass:

    Node Sass is known for its high performance due to its native bindings to LibSass. It compiles Sass to CSS quickly, making it a preferred choice for large projects where compilation speed is critical. However, it may not support the latest Sass features as quickly as Dart Sass.

  • scss:

    SCSS offers similar performance to Sass, as it compiles to CSS in a similar manner. The performance is generally good, but like Sass, it may require optimization for larger projects with complex styles.

  • dart-sass:

    Dart Sass is designed to be efficient and fast, but since it is written in Dart, it may not be as fast as native implementations like Node Sass in certain scenarios. However, it is continuously optimized and is suitable for most projects, especially with its support for the latest features.

Feature Support

  • sass:

    Sass supports all the core features of the language, but it does not receive updates as frequently as Dart Sass. It is suitable for projects that do not require the latest features but still want to use Sass capabilities.

  • postcss-scss:

    PostCSS-SCSS supports SCSS syntax but relies on the PostCSS ecosystem for additional features. It allows developers to use SCSS while benefiting from PostCSS plugins, making it a versatile choice for projects that require advanced CSS processing.

  • node-sass:

    Node Sass supports many features of Sass but may lag behind Dart Sass in adopting new features due to its reliance on LibSass. It is suitable for projects that do not require the latest Sass features but still need the core functionality.

  • scss:

    SCSS supports all the features of Sass and is fully compatible with CSS. It is ideal for developers who want to use Sass features while maintaining a familiar CSS syntax.

  • dart-sass:

    Dart Sass supports all the latest features of the Sass language, including modules, new functions, and advanced syntax. As the primary implementation, it is the first to receive updates and new features, making it the best choice for projects that require the latest capabilities.

Community and Ecosystem

  • sass:

    Sass has a long-standing community and a wealth of resources, tutorials, and documentation available. It is a well-established choice for CSS preprocessing, though it may not be as actively developed as Dart Sass.

  • postcss-scss:

    PostCSS-SCSS benefits from the extensive PostCSS ecosystem, which includes a wide range of plugins for various CSS tasks. This makes it a powerful option for developers looking to enhance their CSS workflow with additional tools and features.

  • node-sass:

    Node Sass has a large user base due to its speed and native bindings. However, it is important to note that LibSass is deprecated, which may affect its long-term viability. The community is still active, but developers are encouraged to consider Dart Sass for future projects.

  • scss:

    SCSS is widely used and has a strong community support. It is a popular choice among developers who prefer a CSS-like syntax while still leveraging Sass features, ensuring a wealth of resources and examples are available.

  • dart-sass:

    Dart Sass has a growing community and is actively maintained. It is the recommended implementation by the Sass team, which means it has strong support and a wealth of resources available for developers.

Ease of Use

  • sass:

    Sass is easy to use and requires minimal setup. It is suitable for developers who want a straightforward way to compile Sass without the complexities of Node.js or additional plugins.

  • postcss-scss:

    PostCSS-SCSS can be more complex to set up due to the need for PostCSS plugins, but it offers a flexible and powerful workflow for those familiar with PostCSS. Developers may need to invest time in configuring their build process to fully utilize its capabilities.

  • node-sass:

    Node Sass requires Node.js and native bindings, which can complicate the setup process for some developers. However, once configured, it is easy to use and integrates well with existing Node.js projects.

  • scss:

    SCSS is designed to be user-friendly, especially for those familiar with CSS. Its syntax is similar to CSS, making it easy for developers to adopt and start using Sass features without a steep learning curve.

  • dart-sass:

    Dart Sass is user-friendly and straightforward to set up, especially for new projects. It provides a simple command-line interface and is easy to integrate into various build tools, making it accessible for developers of all skill levels.

How to Choose: sass vs postcss-scss vs node-sass vs scss vs dart-sass
  • sass:

    Choose Sass if you prefer a simple command-line interface for compiling Sass files without additional dependencies. It is a straightforward option for users who want to get started quickly with Sass without the complexities of Node.js or PostCSS.

  • postcss-scss:

    Choose PostCSS-SCSS if you want to integrate Sass-like syntax into a PostCSS workflow. This package allows you to use SCSS syntax while leveraging PostCSS plugins for additional processing, making it ideal for projects that require advanced CSS transformations.

  • node-sass:

    Choose Node Sass if you need a fast, native binding for Node.js that compiles Sass to CSS. It is suitable for projects where performance is critical, but be aware that it may not support the latest Sass features as quickly as Dart Sass.

  • scss:

    Choose SCSS if you are looking for a syntax that is more CSS-like and easier for developers transitioning from CSS. SCSS allows for the same features as Sass but uses a syntax that is more familiar to CSS developers.

  • dart-sass:

    Choose Dart Sass if you want the most up-to-date implementation of Sass, as it is the primary implementation and supports the latest features. It is also the only implementation that supports the full Sass specification, making it ideal for new projects.

Similar Npm Packages to sass

sass is a popular CSS preprocessor that extends the capabilities of CSS with features like variables, nested rules, mixins, and more. It allows developers to write more maintainable and organized stylesheets, making it easier to manage complex styles in large projects. While Sass is widely used, there are several alternatives that also offer unique features and benefits. Here are a few notable alternatives:

  • less is a dynamic stylesheet language that extends CSS with features such as variables, mixins, and nested rules, similar to Sass. It is known for its simplicity and ease of use, making it a great choice for developers who want to enhance their CSS without a steep learning curve. Less compiles to standard CSS and can be integrated into various build systems, making it a flexible option for many projects.
  • postcss is a tool for transforming CSS with JavaScript plugins. Unlike traditional preprocessors, PostCSS allows developers to use a wide range of plugins to add features like variables, nesting, and autoprefixing. This modular approach gives developers the flexibility to customize their workflow according to their specific needs. PostCSS is particularly useful for teams that want to adopt modern CSS features while maintaining compatibility with older browsers.
  • stylus is another CSS preprocessor that offers a unique syntax and a variety of features, including variables, mixins, and functions. Stylus is known for its flexibility and minimalism, allowing developers to write CSS in a more concise and expressive way. It supports both an indented syntax and a traditional CSS-like syntax, catering to different developer preferences. Stylus is a good choice for those who appreciate a more expressive and less verbose way of writing styles.

To see how Sass compares with Less, PostCSS, and Stylus, check out the comparison: Comparing less vs postcss vs sass vs stylus.

Similar Npm Packages to postcss-scss

postcss-scss is a PostCSS syntax parser that allows developers to write SCSS-style syntax in their CSS files. It enables the use of SCSS features such as nesting, variables, and mixins while still leveraging the powerful PostCSS ecosystem for processing and transforming stylesheets. This package is particularly useful for those who want to maintain the SCSS syntax while benefiting from PostCSS plugins for additional functionality.

While postcss-scss is a great tool, there are several alternatives that cater to different needs in the CSS processing landscape:

  • postcss-cssnext is a PostCSS plugin that allows developers to use the latest CSS features without worrying about browser compatibility. It automatically transforms modern CSS syntax into a format that works across all browsers. If you want to write cutting-edge CSS while ensuring compatibility, postcss-cssnext is an excellent choice.
  • postcss-less is a PostCSS parser for LESS syntax. It allows developers to write styles using LESS features while still taking advantage of PostCSS's powerful plugin ecosystem. If you prefer using LESS but want to integrate with PostCSS, this package is ideal.
  • postcss-modules enables CSS Modules in your project, allowing for scoped CSS and avoiding global namespace conflicts. This is particularly useful for larger projects where modularity and maintainability are crucial. If you want to leverage the benefits of CSS Modules while using PostCSS, this is a great option.
  • postcss-nested is a plugin that allows you to use nested rules in your CSS, similar to SCSS. It enables a more organized and readable structure for your stylesheets. If you like the nesting feature of SCSS but want to stick with standard CSS, postcss-nested is a suitable alternative.
  • postcss-sass is another PostCSS plugin that allows you to use SASS syntax in your stylesheets. It provides similar functionality to postcss-scss but focuses on SASS-specific features. If you prefer SASS syntax and want to use PostCSS, this package is worth considering.

To compare these packages and see how they stack up against each other, check out the following link: Comparing postcss-cssnext vs postcss-less vs postcss-modules vs postcss-nested vs postcss-sass vs postcss-scss.

Similar Npm Packages to node-sass

node-sass is a popular library that allows developers to compile Sass (Syntactically Awesome Style Sheets) into CSS using Node.js. It provides a straightforward way to integrate Sass into your build process, enabling the use of features like variables, nesting, and mixins to create more maintainable and scalable stylesheets. However, there are several alternatives to node-sass that developers might consider:

  • dart-sass is the primary implementation of Sass, written in Dart. It is the most up-to-date version of Sass and includes all the latest features and improvements. Dart Sass is recommended for new projects as it is actively maintained and supports the latest Sass features, including modules. If you are looking for a future-proof solution with full support for the latest Sass capabilities, dart-sass is the way to go.

  • postcss-scss is a PostCSS parser that allows you to use SCSS syntax within the PostCSS ecosystem. While it does not compile SCSS to CSS on its own, it enables developers to leverage SCSS-like syntax while benefiting from the powerful PostCSS plugin ecosystem. If you are already using PostCSS and want to incorporate SCSS syntax, postcss-scss is a great choice.

  • sass is a package that provides the Dart Sass implementation for both the command line and JavaScript environments. It is the official Sass implementation and is recommended for developers who want to use the latest features of Sass without relying on the older LibSass (which node-sass is based on). If you want to ensure that you are using the most current version of Sass, the sass package is the best option.

  • scss is not a standalone package but rather a syntax extension of CSS that allows for more advanced styling capabilities. It is often used interchangeably with Sass, as SCSS is a superset of CSS that adds features like variables and nesting. If you are already familiar with CSS and want to enhance your stylesheets with additional features, SCSS is a natural choice.

For a detailed comparison of these packages, check out the link: Comparing dart-sass vs node-sass vs postcss-scss vs sass vs scss.

Similar Npm Packages to scss

scss is a syntax of Sass (Syntactically Awesome Style Sheets), which is a popular preprocessor scripting language that is interpreted or compiled into Cascading Style Sheets (CSS). SCSS extends CSS with features such as variables, nested rules, mixins, and functions, allowing developers to write more maintainable and organized stylesheets. Its syntax is fully compatible with CSS, meaning any valid CSS is also valid SCSS, making it easy for developers to transition from regular CSS to SCSS.

While SCSS is a powerful tool for styling web applications, there are several alternatives that offer similar features:

  • less is a dynamic stylesheet language that extends CSS with features like variables, mixins, and nested rules. It was one of the first CSS preprocessors and has a simple syntax that makes it easy to learn. Less allows for more modular and maintainable stylesheets, and it compiles to standard CSS, making it widely compatible with various browsers. If you prefer a straightforward approach to CSS preprocessing, Less is a solid choice.
  • sass is the original syntax of Sass, which also provides powerful features for writing CSS. While SCSS is a newer syntax that is more CSS-like, Sass uses a more indented syntax that omits curly braces and semicolons. Both syntaxes offer similar functionalities, including variables, nesting, and mixins. If you enjoy a more minimalist style of coding, you might prefer the Sass syntax over SCSS.
  • stylus is another CSS preprocessor that offers a highly flexible and dynamic syntax. Stylus allows for significant customization and provides features like variables, mixins, and conditionals. Its syntax can be more concise than SCSS or Sass, allowing developers to write less code. If you are looking for a preprocessor that offers a high degree of flexibility and customization, Stylus might be the right choice for your project.

To compare these packages, check out the following link: Comparing less vs sass vs scss vs stylus.

Similar Npm Packages to dart-sass

dart-sass is the primary implementation of Sass, a popular CSS preprocessor that extends CSS with features like variables, nested rules, mixins, and more. Dart Sass is written in Dart and is the reference implementation of the Sass language, ensuring that it supports the latest features and specifications. It is designed to be fast, reliable, and compatible with the latest CSS standards. Dart Sass is the recommended choice for developers who want to leverage the full power of Sass in their projects.

While Dart Sass is a robust option, there are several alternatives available for integrating Sass into your build process:

  • grunt-sass is a Grunt plugin that allows you to compile Sass files into CSS using Dart Sass or Node Sass. If you are already using Grunt as your task runner, grunt-sass is a convenient way to incorporate Sass compilation into your workflow. It provides a straightforward configuration and can be easily integrated with other Grunt tasks.
  • gulp-sass is a Gulp plugin that enables Sass compilation using either Dart Sass or Node Sass. If you prefer using Gulp for your build process, gulp-sass offers a seamless way to compile Sass files while taking advantage of Gulp's streaming capabilities. This can lead to faster build times and a more efficient workflow.
  • node-sass is a library that provides binding for Node.js to LibSass, which is a C/C++ implementation of Sass. While it was widely used in the past, it is worth noting that Node Sass is now deprecated in favor of Dart Sass. However, some legacy projects may still rely on Node Sass for compatibility reasons.
  • postcss-sass is a PostCSS plugin that allows you to use Sass syntax within your PostCSS workflow. This can be useful if you want to leverage PostCSS's powerful plugin ecosystem while still using Sass features. It provides a way to integrate Sass into a modern CSS processing pipeline.
  • sass is the package name for Dart Sass when installed via npm. It is essentially the same as Dart Sass but is often referred to simply as "sass" in the npm ecosystem. This package is the go-to choice for developers looking to use the latest features of Sass in their projects.

To see how Dart Sass compares with its alternatives, check out the comparison: Comparing dart-sass vs grunt-sass vs gulp-sass vs node-sass vs postcss-sass vs sass.

README for sass

A pure JavaScript implementation of Sass. Sass makes CSS fun again.

Sass logo npm statistics GitHub actions build status
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This package is a distribution of Dart Sass, compiled to pure JavaScript with no native code or external dependencies. It provides a command-line sass executable and a Node.js API.

Usage

You can install Sass globally using npm install -g sass which will provide access to the sass executable. You can also add it to your project using npm install --save-dev sass. This provides the executable as well as a library:

const sass = require('sass');

const result = sass.compile(scssFilename);

// OR

// Note that `compileAsync()` is substantially slower than `compile()`.
const result = await sass.compileAsync(scssFilename);

See the Sass website for full API documentation.

Legacy API

Dart Sass also supports an older JavaScript API that's fully compatible with Node Sass (with a few exceptions listed below), with support for both the render() and renderSync() functions. This API is considered deprecated and will be removed in Dart Sass 2.0.0, so it should be avoided in new projects.

Sass's support for the legacy JavaScript API has the following limitations:

  • Only the "expanded" and "compressed" values of outputStyle are supported.

  • Dart Sass doesn't support the precision option. Dart Sass defaults to a sufficiently high precision for all existing browsers, and making this customizable would make the code substantially less efficient.

  • Dart Sass doesn't support the sourceComments option. Source maps are the recommended way of locating the origin of generated selectors.

See Also

  • Dart Sass, from which this package is compiled, can be used either as a stand-alone executable or as a Dart library. Running Dart Sass on the Dart VM is substantially faster than running the pure JavaScript version, so this may be appropriate for performance-sensitive applications. The Dart API is also (currently) more user-friendly than the JavaScript API. See the Dart Sass README for details on how to use it.

  • Node Sass, which is a wrapper around LibSass, the C++ implementation of Sass. Node Sass supports the same API as this package and is also faster (although it's usually a little slower than Dart Sass). However, it requires a native library which may be difficult to install, and it's generally slower to add features and fix bugs.

Behavioral Differences from Ruby Sass

There are a few intentional behavioral differences between Dart Sass and Ruby Sass. These are generally places where Ruby Sass has an undesired behavior, and it's substantially easier to implement the correct behavior than it would be to implement compatible behavior. These should all have tracking bugs against Ruby Sass to update the reference behavior.

  1. @extend only accepts simple selectors, as does the second argument of selector-extend(). See issue 1599.

  2. Subject selectors are not supported. See issue 1126.

  3. Pseudo selector arguments are parsed as <declaration-value>s rather than having a more limited custom parsing. See issue 2120.

  4. The numeric precision is set to 10. See issue 1122.

  5. The indented syntax parser is more flexible: it doesn't require consistent indentation across the whole document. See issue 2176.

  6. Colors do not support channel-by-channel arithmetic. See issue 2144.

  7. Unitless numbers aren't == to unit numbers with the same value. In addition, map keys follow the same logic as ==-equality. See issue 1496.

  8. rgba() and hsla() alpha values with percentage units are interpreted as percentages. Other units are forbidden. See issue 1525.

  9. Too many variable arguments passed to a function is an error. See issue 1408.

  10. Allow @extend to reach outside a media query if there's an identical @extend defined outside that query. This isn't tracked explicitly, because it'll be irrelevant when issue 1050 is fixed.

  11. Some selector pseudos containing placeholder selectors will be compiled where they wouldn't be in Ruby Sass. This better matches the semantics of the selectors in question, and is more efficient. See issue 2228.

  12. The old-style :property value syntax is not supported in the indented syntax. See issue 2245.

  13. The reference combinator is not supported. See issue 303.

  14. Universal selector unification is symmetrical. See issue 2247.

  15. @extend doesn't produce an error if it matches but fails to unify. See issue 2250.

  16. Dart Sass currently only supports UTF-8 documents. We'd like to support more, but Dart currently doesn't support them. See dart-lang/sdk#11744, for example.

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