Modularity
- date-fns: date-fns is highly modular, allowing developers to import only the specific functions they need, which leads to smaller bundle sizes and improved performance. This modularity makes it easy to optimize your application by reducing unnecessary code.
- dayjs: dayjs is designed to be a lightweight alternative to Moment.js while maintaining a similar API. It is not as modular as date-fns but is significantly smaller than Moment.js, making it a good choice for projects that prioritize performance without sacrificing usability.
- moment: moment is a monolithic library that includes a wide array of date manipulation features. While it is not modular, it has been widely adopted and offers extensive functionality, though it can lead to larger bundle sizes.
- luxon: luxon is not modular in the same way as date-fns, but it provides a rich set of features related to date and time manipulation, including time zones and localization. Its design is focused on modern JavaScript capabilities, making it a robust choice for complex date handling.
- datejs: datejs is not modular; it provides a comprehensive set of features in a single package, which can lead to larger bundle sizes. However, it offers a wide range of functionalities out of the box, making it suitable for applications that require extensive date manipulation.
Time Zone Support
- date-fns: date-fns does not natively support time zones, but you can use it in conjunction with other libraries like date-fns-tz for time zone handling. This allows for flexibility but requires additional setup.
- dayjs: dayjs offers a plugin for time zone support, allowing developers to handle time zones effectively. This makes it a suitable choice for applications that require both a lightweight library and time zone capabilities.
- moment: moment has built-in time zone support through the moment-timezone library, allowing developers to easily manipulate dates and times in various time zones. However, it is worth noting that Moment.js has been criticized for its performance and size.
- luxon: luxon excels in time zone support, providing a robust API for working with dates and times in different zones. It is built with time zones in mind, making it ideal for applications that require accurate date and time handling across regions.
- datejs: datejs has built-in support for time zones, making it easier to work with dates across different regions. This feature is particularly useful for applications that need to display dates in various time zones.
Localization
- date-fns: date-fns provides excellent localization support, allowing developers to format dates in various locales easily. This makes it a great choice for applications that need to cater to a global audience.
- dayjs: dayjs has built-in support for localization, allowing developers to format dates in different languages. This feature is simple to use and makes it a good choice for international applications.
- moment: moment has extensive localization support, with a wide range of languages and formats available. It is well-suited for applications that require comprehensive localization capabilities, though its size and performance may be a concern.
- luxon: luxon provides robust localization features, allowing for easy formatting and manipulation of dates in various locales. Its API is designed to handle internationalization effectively, making it ideal for global applications.
- datejs: datejs offers localization features, but they may not be as extensive or flexible as those found in other libraries. It is suitable for applications that require basic localization capabilities.
Performance
- date-fns: date-fns is optimized for performance, as it allows developers to import only the functions they need, resulting in smaller bundle sizes and faster execution times. This makes it suitable for performance-critical applications.
- dayjs: dayjs is designed for performance, being significantly smaller than Moment.js while offering a similar API. It is a great choice for applications that prioritize speed and efficiency without sacrificing usability.
- moment: moment is known for its extensive functionality, but it has performance issues, especially in large applications. Its size can lead to slower load times, so it is recommended to use it in scenarios where its features are absolutely necessary.
- luxon: luxon is built on modern JavaScript features and provides good performance, especially when dealing with complex date and time manipulations. However, its size is larger than some lightweight alternatives, so it is best suited for applications that require its advanced features.
- datejs: datejs may not be as performant as other libraries due to its comprehensive feature set and larger size. It is best suited for applications where performance is not the primary concern but where rich date manipulation capabilities are needed.
Learning Curve
- date-fns: date-fns has a relatively low learning curve, especially for developers familiar with functional programming concepts. Its modular approach and straightforward API make it easy to pick up and use effectively.
- dayjs: dayjs is designed to be easy to use, especially for those familiar with Moment.js. Its API is simple and intuitive, making it accessible for developers of all skill levels.
- moment: moment has a gentle learning curve, with a well-documented API and a large community. However, its extensive features can be overwhelming for beginners, and understanding its performance implications is crucial.
- luxon: luxon has a moderate learning curve, particularly for those new to modern JavaScript features. Its API is powerful but may require some time to fully understand, especially for advanced date and time handling.
- datejs: datejs has a steeper learning curve due to its unique syntax and extensive feature set. Developers may need time to familiarize themselves with its capabilities, but it offers powerful date manipulation once mastered.
