lodash vs underscore vs ramda vs remeda
JavaScript Utility Libraries Comparison
1 Year
lodashunderscoreramdaremedaSimilar Packages:
What's JavaScript Utility Libraries?

JavaScript utility libraries provide a collection of functions that help developers manipulate data, handle arrays, objects, and perform functional programming tasks more efficiently. These libraries aim to simplify common programming tasks, enhance code readability, and improve productivity by offering a wide range of utility functions that can be reused across different projects. They are particularly useful in modern JavaScript development, where managing complex data structures and asynchronous operations is commonplace.

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lodash60,768,75060,196-894 years agoMIT
underscore14,036,27427,391906 kB517 months agoMIT
ramda11,977,49923,9361.18 MB1519 months agoMIT
remeda516,6784,764804 kB306 days agoMIT
Feature Comparison: lodash vs underscore vs ramda vs remeda

Functional Programming Support

  • lodash:

    Lodash provides some functional programming capabilities, but it is primarily focused on utility functions for data manipulation. It supports chaining and has methods that can be used in a functional style, but it does not enforce a functional programming paradigm.

  • underscore:

    Underscore offers basic functional programming support but is not as comprehensive as Ramda. It provides utility functions that can be used in a functional style, but it lacks the advanced features and immutability focus of Ramda.

  • ramda:

    Ramda is designed specifically for functional programming. It encourages a point-free style and provides curried functions by default, allowing for easy composition of functions and a more declarative approach to programming.

  • remeda:

    Remeda combines utility functions with a functional programming approach, offering curried functions and a focus on immutability. It aims to provide a balance between utility and functional programming principles, making it suitable for modern TypeScript applications.

Performance

  • lodash:

    Lodash is optimized for performance and is often faster than its counterparts, especially for large datasets. It includes performance optimizations like lazy evaluation and memoization, making it suitable for performance-critical applications.

  • underscore:

    Underscore is lightweight and performs well for basic utility functions, but it lacks the extensive optimizations found in Lodash. It is suitable for smaller projects where performance is not a primary concern.

  • ramda:

    Ramda's performance is generally good, but it may not match Lodash in raw speed due to its emphasis on immutability and functional programming. However, its performance is adequate for most applications, especially those that prioritize code clarity and maintainability.

  • remeda:

    Remeda is designed to be lightweight and efficient, providing good performance while maintaining type safety. It aims to strike a balance between performance and usability, making it a solid choice for modern applications.

TypeScript Support

  • lodash:

    Lodash has TypeScript definitions available, but they may not cover all functions comprehensively. While it works well with TypeScript, some developers may find the type definitions lacking in certain areas.

  • underscore:

    Underscore has basic TypeScript definitions available, but they are not as comprehensive as those for Lodash or Ramda. It may require additional type definitions for more complex use cases.

  • ramda:

    Ramda has excellent TypeScript support, with comprehensive type definitions that enhance the developer experience. It is a great choice for TypeScript users who want to leverage functional programming principles with strong type safety.

  • remeda:

    Remeda is built with TypeScript in mind, providing first-class type definitions and ensuring type safety across its API. It is an ideal choice for TypeScript developers looking for a modern utility library.

Mutability

  • lodash:

    Lodash allows for mutable operations, meaning it can modify the original objects or arrays unless explicitly designed to return new instances. This can lead to side effects if not managed carefully.

  • underscore:

    Underscore allows for mutable operations similar to Lodash. It does not enforce immutability, so developers need to be cautious about side effects when using its functions.

  • ramda:

    Ramda emphasizes immutability, encouraging developers to work with immutable data structures. Its functions do not mutate the original data, promoting safer and more predictable code.

  • remeda:

    Remeda focuses on immutability and provides functions that do not mutate the original data structures. It is designed for developers who want to maintain immutability in their applications.

Learning Curve

  • lodash:

    Lodash has a moderate learning curve due to its extensive API, but its documentation is thorough, making it easier for developers to get up to speed. Familiarity with JavaScript concepts is sufficient to start using it effectively.

  • underscore:

    Underscore has a low learning curve, making it easy for developers to pick up and start using. Its simpler API and fewer features compared to Lodash make it accessible for quick utility tasks.

  • ramda:

    Ramda has a steeper learning curve, especially for developers new to functional programming. Its point-free style and currying may require a shift in mindset, but it rewards users with more concise and maintainable code once mastered.

  • remeda:

    Remeda is designed to be user-friendly, with a straightforward API that is easy to learn for both new and experienced developers. Its focus on TypeScript also aids in understanding and using the library effectively.

How to Choose: lodash vs underscore vs ramda vs remeda
  • lodash:

    Choose Lodash if you need a comprehensive utility library with a wide range of functions for data manipulation, performance optimizations, and compatibility with older browsers. Lodash is known for its performance and extensive documentation, making it a go-to choice for many developers.

  • underscore:

    Choose Underscore if you need a lightweight utility library that provides basic functionality without the overhead of Lodash. It is suitable for projects that require simple data manipulation without the need for extensive features or performance optimizations.

  • ramda:

    Choose Ramda if you prefer a functional programming style and want to work with immutable data structures. Ramda emphasizes a point-free style and provides a rich set of functions that are curried by default, making it ideal for functional programming enthusiasts who value composability and immutability.

  • remeda:

    Choose Remeda if you are looking for a modern utility library that combines the best features of Lodash and Ramda, with a focus on TypeScript support and type safety. Remeda provides a concise API and is designed for developers who want a lightweight, type-safe alternative to Lodash and Ramda.

README for lodash

lodash v4.17.21

The Lodash library exported as Node.js modules.

Installation

Using npm:

$ npm i -g npm
$ npm i --save lodash

In Node.js:

// Load the full build.
var _ = require('lodash');
// Load the core build.
var _ = require('lodash/core');
// Load the FP build for immutable auto-curried iteratee-first data-last methods.
var fp = require('lodash/fp');

// Load method categories.
var array = require('lodash/array');
var object = require('lodash/fp/object');

// Cherry-pick methods for smaller browserify/rollup/webpack bundles.
var at = require('lodash/at');
var curryN = require('lodash/fp/curryN');

See the package source for more details.

Note:
Install n_ for Lodash use in the Node.js < 6 REPL.

Support

Tested in Chrome 74-75, Firefox 66-67, IE 11, Edge 18, Safari 11-12, & Node.js 8-12.
Automated browser & CI test runs are available.