extract-zip vs unzipit vs unzip
Node.js Zip File Extraction Libraries Comparison
1 Year
extract-zipunzipitunzipSimilar Packages:
What's Node.js Zip File Extraction Libraries?

Zip file extraction libraries in Node.js provide developers with tools to handle compressed files efficiently. They enable the extraction of files from zip archives, which is essential for applications that need to manage file uploads, downloads, or storage. These libraries simplify the process of unzipping files, allowing developers to focus on other aspects of their applications without worrying about the complexities of file handling and compression formats.

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extract-zip15,318,921395-525 years agoBSD-2-Clause
unzipit52,065139168 kB142 years agoMIT
unzip47,290617-8511 years agoMIT
Feature Comparison: extract-zip vs unzipit vs unzip

Ease of Use

  • extract-zip:

    extract-zip is designed for simplicity, offering a straightforward API that allows developers to extract zip files with just a few lines of code. It abstracts away the complexities of file handling, making it an excellent choice for quick implementations.

  • unzipit:

    unzipit features a promise-based API that simplifies asynchronous operations, making it easy to integrate into modern JavaScript applications. Its clean syntax and minimal setup make it user-friendly, especially for developers familiar with async/await.

  • unzip:

    unzip provides a more complex API that allows for greater control over the extraction process. While it may require more boilerplate code compared to extract-zip, it offers flexibility for advanced use cases, such as handling large files or specific extraction scenarios.

Streaming Support

  • extract-zip:

    extract-zip does not support streaming extraction, which may limit its use in scenarios where memory efficiency is crucial, such as when dealing with large zip files.

  • unzipit:

    unzipit does not provide native streaming support, focusing instead on a promise-based approach for extraction. While it is efficient for smaller files, it may not be the best choice for applications that require streaming capabilities.

  • unzip:

    unzip supports streaming extraction, allowing developers to process files as they are being extracted. This feature is particularly beneficial for applications that need to handle large zip files without consuming excessive memory.

Error Handling

  • extract-zip:

    extract-zip offers basic error handling, throwing exceptions for common issues such as file not found or invalid zip formats. This simplicity can be advantageous for straightforward applications but may require additional handling for complex scenarios.

  • unzipit:

    unzipit includes built-in error handling that leverages promises, making it easier to manage errors in asynchronous workflows. This feature enhances the developer experience by providing clear feedback on extraction issues.

  • unzip:

    unzip provides more granular error handling, allowing developers to catch and manage specific extraction errors. This capability is useful for applications that need robust error management and recovery strategies during the extraction process.

Performance

  • extract-zip:

    extract-zip is optimized for performance in typical use cases, but it may not be the fastest option for very large zip files due to its synchronous nature. It is best suited for applications where extraction speed is not the primary concern.

  • unzipit:

    unzipit performs well for smaller zip files and is optimized for modern JavaScript environments. However, its performance may be impacted when dealing with very large zip files due to the lack of streaming support.

  • unzip:

    unzip is designed for performance, especially with large files, thanks to its streaming capabilities. It can handle larger zip files more efficiently, making it a better choice for applications that prioritize speed and resource management.

Community and Maintenance

  • extract-zip:

    extract-zip has a stable community and is actively maintained, ensuring that it stays up-to-date with the latest Node.js versions and best practices. This reliability can be crucial for long-term projects.

  • unzipit:

    unzipit is relatively newer but has gained popularity for its modern approach. It is actively maintained, and its community is growing, making it a viable option for developers looking for contemporary solutions.

  • unzip:

    unzip has a strong community and is frequently updated, providing ongoing support and improvements. Its active development ensures that it remains compatible with evolving Node.js features and standards.

How to Choose: extract-zip vs unzipit vs unzip
  • extract-zip:

    Choose extract-zip if you need a straightforward and reliable solution for extracting zip files with minimal dependencies. It is easy to use and well-suited for applications that require basic zip extraction functionality without additional features.

  • unzipit:

    Opt for unzipit if you are looking for a modern, promise-based API that integrates well with async/await syntax. It is particularly useful for developers who want a simple and clean approach to zip extraction, especially in environments that leverage modern JavaScript features.

  • unzip:

    Select unzip if you prefer a more flexible and feature-rich library that supports streaming extraction and is capable of handling large zip files efficiently. It is ideal for applications that need to process zip files in a more controlled manner, such as extracting files on-the-fly.

README for extract-zip

extract-zip

Unzip written in pure JavaScript. Extracts a zip into a directory. Available as a library or a command line program.

Uses the yauzl ZIP parser.

NPM Uses JS Standard Style Build Status

Installation

Make sure you have Node 10 or greater installed.

Get the library:

npm install extract-zip --save

Install the command line program:

npm install extract-zip -g

JS API

const extract = require('extract-zip')

async function main () {
  try {
    await extract(source, { dir: target })
    console.log('Extraction complete')
  } catch (err) {
    // handle any errors
  }
}

Options

  • dir (required) - the path to the directory where the extracted files are written
  • defaultDirMode - integer - Directory Mode (permissions), defaults to 0o755
  • defaultFileMode - integer - File Mode (permissions), defaults to 0o644
  • onEntry - function - if present, will be called with (entry, zipfile), entry is every entry from the zip file forwarded from the entry event from yauzl. zipfile is the yauzl instance

Default modes are only used if no permissions are set in the zip file.

CLI Usage

extract-zip foo.zip <targetDirectory>

If not specified, targetDirectory will default to process.cwd().