ua-parser-js vs node-device-detector vs express-device
Device Detection Libraries Comparison
1 Year
ua-parser-jsnode-device-detectorexpress-deviceSimilar Packages:
What's Device Detection Libraries?

Device detection libraries are essential tools in web development that help identify the type of device accessing a web application, allowing developers to tailor the user experience based on device capabilities. These libraries analyze the user agent string sent by the browser to determine the device type, operating system, and browser version. This information can be used to optimize content delivery, enhance responsiveness, and improve overall user experience by serving appropriate layouts and features for different devices, such as desktops, tablets, and smartphones.

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ua-parser-js15,023,8919,4921.2 MB2022 days agoAGPL-3.0-or-later
node-device-detector23,0771543.91 MB16 days agoMIT
express-device21,250307-49 years agoMIT
Feature Comparison: ua-parser-js vs node-device-detector vs express-device

Integration

  • ua-parser-js:

    Ua-parser-js is a standalone library that can be used in both Node.js and client-side applications. Its flexibility allows developers to implement it in diverse environments without being tied to a specific framework, making it a versatile choice.

  • node-device-detector:

    Node-device-detector can be integrated into any Node.js application. It provides a more extensive set of features for device detection and can be used alongside other libraries to enhance functionality. Its modular design allows for easy integration into various architectures.

  • express-device:

    Express-device is designed specifically for Express.js applications, making it easy to integrate into existing middleware. It allows for quick setup and provides a straightforward API for accessing device information in route handlers.

Detail Level

  • ua-parser-js:

    Ua-parser-js delivers comprehensive parsing of user agent strings, extracting detailed information about the browser, operating system, and device type. This makes it suitable for applications that need in-depth analysis of user environments.

  • node-device-detector:

    Node-device-detector provides detailed information about the device, including brand, model, and operating system. This level of detail is beneficial for applications that require precise device targeting and feature support.

  • express-device:

    Express-device offers basic device detection capabilities, focusing primarily on distinguishing between mobile, tablet, and desktop devices. It provides essential information but may lack the depth required for more complex applications.

Performance

  • ua-parser-js:

    Ua-parser-js is highly efficient and performs well in both server and client environments. Its lightweight nature ensures that it can quickly parse user agent strings without causing noticeable delays.

  • node-device-detector:

    Node-device-detector is designed for performance but may introduce some overhead due to its extensive feature set. It is suitable for applications where detailed device information justifies the performance trade-off.

  • express-device:

    Express-device is lightweight and optimized for performance within Express.js applications. Its minimalistic approach ensures that device detection does not significantly impact application response times.

Community and Support

  • ua-parser-js:

    Ua-parser-js has a large and active community, with frequent updates and extensive documentation. This makes it a reliable choice for developers seeking support and resources for implementation.

  • node-device-detector:

    Node-device-detector has a moderate community and is actively maintained, providing a good balance of support and updates. It offers documentation and examples to help developers implement device detection effectively.

  • express-device:

    Express-device has a smaller community compared to other libraries, which may result in limited support and fewer updates. However, it is straightforward to use and well-documented for basic needs.

Customization

  • ua-parser-js:

    Ua-parser-js provides a customizable API that allows developers to extend its functionality and adapt it to specific needs. This makes it suitable for projects that require tailored device detection solutions.

  • node-device-detector:

    Node-device-detector allows for more customization, enabling developers to define rules and modify detection logic as needed. This flexibility is beneficial for applications with specific requirements or unique user agent strings.

  • express-device:

    Express-device offers limited customization options, focusing on basic device detection without extensive configuration. This simplicity can be an advantage for projects that require quick setup without complex configurations.

How to Choose: ua-parser-js vs node-device-detector vs express-device
  • ua-parser-js:

    Select ua-parser-js if you need a standalone, lightweight library that can be used in both Node.js and browser environments. It offers a straightforward API for parsing user agent strings and extracting detailed information about the device, browser, and operating system, making it ideal for projects that require flexibility and cross-platform compatibility.

  • node-device-detector:

    Opt for node-device-detector if you require a more comprehensive solution that includes detailed device information and supports a wide range of user agents. It is particularly useful for applications that need to handle complex device detection scenarios and provides a robust API for querying device capabilities.

  • express-device:

    Choose express-device if you are using Express.js and need a lightweight solution that integrates seamlessly with your existing middleware. It provides a simple way to detect device types and offers easy access to device information in your routes.

README for ua-parser-js

https://uaparser.dev https://uaparser.dev https://uaparser.dev https://uaparser.dev

UAParser.js

The most comprehensive, compact, & up-to-date isomorphic JavaScript library to detect user's Browser, Engine, OS, CPU, and Device type/model. Runs either in browser (client-side) or node.js (server-side).

Demo

  • Live demo: https://uaparser.dev

Documentation

  • version 1.x : https://github.com/faisalman/ua-parser-js/tree/1.0.x#documentation
  • version 2.x : https://docs.uaparser.dev

Before upgrading from v0.7 / v1.0, please read CHANGELOG to see what's new & breaking.

License Options

Open-Source EditionsPRO / Commercial Editions
License optionsMIT (v0.7~v1.0)AGPL (>=v2.0)PRO PersonalPRO BusinessPRO Enterprise
Browser detection⚠️
CPU detection⚠️
Device detection⚠️
Engine detection⚠️
OS detection⚠️
Bot detection
AI Bot detection
Extras (Apps, Libs, Emails, Media Players, etc) detection
Enhanced detection result
Client Hints support
CommonJS support
ES modules support
npm module
TypeScript declarations⚠️
Allows commercial use
Permissive (non-copyleft) license
Unlimited use per 1 license
1-year product support
Lifetime updates
PriceFREE (License)FREE (License)$14 (License)$29 (License)$599 (License)

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Development

Contributors

Please read CONTRIBUTING guide first for the instruction details.

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Backers & Sponsors

You can support the open-source editions of UAParser.js through one of the following options:

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