rollup vs webpack vs systemjs vs parcel
JavaScript Module Bundlers Comparison
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What's JavaScript Module Bundlers?

JavaScript module bundlers are tools that compile and package multiple JavaScript files into a single file or a few files, optimizing them for performance and loading speed. They help manage dependencies, transform code (like transpiling ES6 to ES5), and optimize assets (like images and CSS). Each bundler has its unique features and use cases, making it essential to choose the right one based on project requirements, team familiarity, and desired performance outcomes.

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rollup30,897,74725,6202.69 MB5903 days agoMIT
webpack28,883,38465,0855.21 MB24019 days agoMIT
systemjs699,55413,007787 kB7110 months agoMIT
parcel222,20643,69343.9 kB6143 months agoMIT
Feature Comparison: rollup vs webpack vs systemjs vs parcel

Configuration Complexity

  • rollup:

    Rollup requires minimal configuration for basic setups but allows for extensive customization through plugins. It strikes a balance between simplicity and flexibility, making it suitable for library authors who want control over their output.

  • webpack:

    Webpack has a steep learning curve due to its complex configuration options. It requires a detailed setup to leverage its full potential, which can be daunting for newcomers but offers unmatched flexibility for advanced users.

  • systemjs:

    SystemJS offers a moderate level of configuration, allowing you to define module paths and formats. It is more complex than Parcel but simpler than Webpack, making it a good choice for projects needing dynamic module loading.

  • parcel:

    Parcel is designed to be zero-config, meaning you can get started without any configuration files. It automatically detects your project structure and dependencies, making it user-friendly for beginners and rapid prototyping.

Performance Optimization

  • rollup:

    Rollup excels in producing highly optimized bundles with tree-shaking capabilities, ensuring that only the code you actually use is included in the final output, resulting in smaller file sizes.

  • webpack:

    Webpack offers extensive performance optimization features, including code splitting, lazy loading, and caching strategies. However, these optimizations require careful configuration and understanding of the tool.

  • systemjs:

    SystemJS focuses on dynamic loading and may not provide the same level of optimization as others, but it allows for on-demand loading of modules, which can improve initial load times in certain scenarios.

  • parcel:

    Parcel automatically optimizes your code and assets during the build process, including features like code splitting and caching, which enhances performance without manual intervention.

Ecosystem and Plugins

  • rollup:

    Rollup has a rich ecosystem of plugins specifically designed for optimizing libraries and applications, making it a favorite among library authors who need fine-tuned control over their output.

  • webpack:

    Webpack boasts the largest ecosystem of plugins and loaders, allowing for extensive customization and integration with various tools, making it suitable for complex applications.

  • systemjs:

    SystemJS has a smaller ecosystem compared to others, focusing on module loading rather than bundling, which may limit its use in projects that require extensive build optimizations.

  • parcel:

    Parcel has a growing ecosystem with built-in support for many common file types and formats, but it has fewer plugins compared to Webpack, which may limit customization for advanced use cases.

Learning Curve

  • rollup:

    Rollup has a moderate learning curve, especially for those familiar with ES modules. Its simplicity in basic setups is balanced by the need for understanding plugins for advanced configurations.

  • webpack:

    Webpack has a steep learning curve due to its complex configuration and vast capabilities. It is best suited for developers willing to invest time in learning its intricacies to fully leverage its power.

  • systemjs:

    SystemJS has a moderate learning curve, particularly for developers familiar with module loaders. It requires understanding of module formats and dynamic loading concepts.

  • parcel:

    Parcel is user-friendly with a gentle learning curve, making it accessible for beginners and those looking to quickly set up a project without diving into configuration details.

Use Cases

  • rollup:

    Rollup is best suited for library development, where producing optimized bundles with tree-shaking is crucial. It is favored by developers creating reusable components or libraries for distribution.

  • webpack:

    Webpack is the go-to choice for large-scale applications that require complex configurations, asset management, and performance optimizations. It is widely used in enterprise-level projects where flexibility and control are paramount.

  • systemjs:

    SystemJS is useful for applications that require dynamic module loading, particularly in scenarios where modules need to be loaded on demand or in legacy systems that use different module formats.

  • parcel:

    Parcel is ideal for small to medium-sized projects, prototypes, and applications where rapid development and ease of use are priorities, making it a great choice for individual developers and small teams.

How to Choose: rollup vs webpack vs systemjs vs parcel
  • rollup:

    Choose Rollup if you're focused on building libraries or applications that require tree-shaking to eliminate dead code and produce highly optimized bundles. Rollup's ES module support makes it great for modern JavaScript development.

  • webpack:

    Choose Webpack for its powerful configuration options and extensive plugin ecosystem, making it suitable for large-scale applications that require complex setups, such as code splitting, hot module replacement, and asset management.

  • systemjs:

    Choose SystemJS if you need a dynamic module loader that supports both ES modules and AMD, especially for applications that require on-the-fly loading of modules in a browser environment, or if you're working with legacy codebases.

  • parcel:

    Choose Parcel for its zero-configuration setup, rapid build times, and automatic code splitting, making it ideal for smaller projects or when you want to get started quickly without extensive configuration.

Similar Npm Packages to rollup

rollup is a module bundler for JavaScript applications, designed to optimize the process of packaging and serving code. It is particularly well-suited for libraries and applications that utilize ES modules, as it can produce smaller and more efficient bundles by leveraging tree-shaking capabilities. Rollup allows developers to write modular code while ensuring that the final output is optimized for performance, making it a popular choice for building libraries and applications.

While Rollup is a powerful tool, there are several alternatives in the JavaScript ecosystem that serve similar purposes. Here are a few notable ones:

  • browserify is a tool that allows developers to use Node.js-style require statements in the browser. It transforms Node-style modules into a format that can be used in the browser, enabling developers to write modular code. While Browserify is effective for smaller projects, it may not be as performant as Rollup for larger applications due to its lack of tree-shaking capabilities.

  • gulp is a task runner that automates various development tasks, including file transformations, minification, and bundling. While Gulp can be used for bundling JavaScript files, it is more focused on task automation and may require additional plugins to achieve similar functionality to Rollup. Gulp is ideal for developers looking for a flexible and customizable build process.

  • parcel is a zero-configuration web application bundler that aims to simplify the development process. It automatically handles module bundling, code splitting, and asset optimization without the need for extensive configuration. Parcel is a great choice for developers who want a quick setup and an easy-to-use bundler, although it may not provide the same level of control and optimization as Rollup for library development.

  • webpack is one of the most popular module bundlers in the JavaScript ecosystem. It offers a wide range of features, including code splitting, hot module replacement, and extensive plugin support. While Webpack is highly configurable and powerful, it can also be complex to set up and manage. For larger applications that require fine-tuned control over the build process, Webpack is often the go-to choice.

To see how Rollup compares with Browserify, Gulp, Parcel, and Webpack, check out the comparison: Comparing browserify vs gulp vs parcel vs rollup vs webpack.

Similar Npm Packages to systemjs

systemjs is a dynamic module loader that allows developers to load JavaScript modules in a flexible and efficient manner. It supports various module formats, including ES modules, AMD, and CommonJS, making it a versatile choice for managing dependencies in web applications. While systemjs offers a robust solution for module loading, there are several alternatives in the ecosystem that cater to different needs. Here are a few notable alternatives:

  • parcel is a web application bundler that requires zero configuration to get started. It automatically analyzes your project and determines the best way to bundle your assets, including JavaScript, CSS, HTML, and images. Parcel is known for its fast build times and built-in support for hot module replacement, making it an excellent choice for developers looking for a straightforward and efficient bundling solution without the overhead of configuration.
  • rollup is a module bundler specifically designed for JavaScript libraries and applications. It focuses on optimizing the output bundle by using tree-shaking to eliminate unused code, resulting in smaller file sizes. Rollup is particularly popular for building libraries that need to be distributed as a single file, as it produces highly optimized bundles. If your project requires efficient code splitting and optimization, rollup is a strong contender.
  • webpack is one of the most widely used module bundlers in the JavaScript ecosystem. It provides a powerful and flexible configuration system that allows developers to customize the bundling process extensively. Webpack supports a wide range of features, including code splitting, asset management, and hot module replacement. While it has a steeper learning curve compared to some alternatives, its extensive plugin ecosystem and community support make it a go-to choice for large-scale applications.

To see how systemjs compares with parcel, rollup, and webpack, check out the comparison: Comparing parcel vs rollup vs systemjs vs webpack.

Similar Npm Packages to parcel

parcel is a web application bundler that aims to provide a fast and zero-configuration experience for developers. It automatically handles various tasks such as module bundling, code splitting, and asset optimization without requiring extensive configuration files. Parcel is particularly well-suited for developers looking for a straightforward setup and quick build times, making it an attractive option for both small and large projects.

While Parcel is a powerful tool, there are several alternatives in the ecosystem that cater to different needs and preferences:

  • browserify is a tool that allows developers to use Node.js-style modules in the browser. It transforms CommonJS modules into a format that can be understood by the browser, enabling developers to write modular code without worrying about compatibility issues. Browserify is particularly useful for projects that heavily rely on Node.js modules and want to maintain a modular structure in their client-side code.

  • grunt is a JavaScript task runner that automates repetitive tasks such as minification, compilation, unit testing, and linting. While it is not a bundler per se, Grunt can be configured to work with various plugins to achieve similar results. It is ideal for developers who prefer a highly customizable and extensible build process, although it may require more setup compared to other tools.

  • gulp is another task runner that uses a code-over-configuration approach, allowing developers to define tasks using JavaScript. Gulp is known for its speed and flexibility, as it streams files through a series of transformations. It is a great choice for developers who want to create a custom build process tailored to their specific needs, although it may involve more initial setup than Parcel.

  • rollup is a module bundler that focuses on optimizing the output for libraries and applications. It supports ES modules natively and provides tree-shaking capabilities, allowing developers to reduce the size of their bundles by eliminating unused code. Rollup is particularly well-suited for building libraries and applications where performance and bundle size are critical.

  • webpack is one of the most popular module bundlers in the JavaScript ecosystem. It offers a highly configurable setup and supports a wide range of features, including code splitting, hot module replacement, and asset management. While it provides great flexibility and power, it can also be complex to configure, making it more suitable for larger projects that require a tailored build process.

To compare these tools further, you can check out the following link: Comparing browserify vs grunt vs gulp vs parcel vs rollup vs webpack.

README for rollup

npm version node compatibility install size code coverage backers sponsors license Join the chat at https://is.gd/rollup_chat

Rollup

Overview

Rollup is a module bundler for JavaScript which compiles small pieces of code into something larger and more complex, such as a library or application. It uses the standardized ES module format for code, instead of previous idiosyncratic solutions such as CommonJS and AMD. ES modules let you freely and seamlessly combine the most useful individual functions from your favorite libraries. Rollup can optimize ES modules for faster native loading in modern browsers, or output a legacy module format allowing ES module workflows today.

Quick Start Guide

Install with npm install --global rollup. Rollup can be used either through a command line interface with an optional configuration file or else through its JavaScript API. Run rollup --help to see the available options and parameters. The starter project templates, rollup-starter-lib and rollup-starter-app, demonstrate common configuration options, and more detailed instructions are available throughout the user guide.

Commands

These commands assume the entry point to your application is named main.js, and that you'd like all imports compiled into a single file named bundle.js.

For browsers:

# compile to a <script> containing a self-executing function
rollup main.js --format iife --name "myBundle" --file bundle.js

For Node.js:

# compile to a CommonJS module
rollup main.js --format cjs --file bundle.js

For both browsers and Node.js:

# UMD format requires a bundle name
rollup main.js --format umd --name "myBundle" --file bundle.js

Why

Developing software is usually easier if you break your project into smaller separate pieces, since that often removes unexpected interactions and dramatically reduces the complexity of the problems you'll need to solve, and simply writing smaller projects in the first place isn't necessarily the answer. Unfortunately, JavaScript has not historically included this capability as a core feature in the language.

This finally changed with ES modules support in JavaScript, which provides a syntax for importing and exporting functions and data so they can be shared between separate scripts. Most browsers and Node.js support ES modules. However, Node.js releases before 12.17 support ES modules only behind the --experimental-modules flag, and older browsers like Internet Explorer do not support ES modules at all. Rollup allows you to write your code using ES modules, and run your application even in environments that do not support ES modules natively. For environments that support them, Rollup can output optimized ES modules; for environments that don't, Rollup can compile your code to other formats such as CommonJS modules, AMD modules, and IIFE-style scripts. This means that you get to write future-proof code, and you also get the tremendous benefits of...

Tree Shaking

In addition to enabling the use of ES modules, Rollup also statically analyzes and optimizes the code you are importing, and will exclude anything that isn't actually used. This allows you to build on top of existing tools and modules without adding extra dependencies or bloating the size of your project.

For example, with CommonJS, the entire tool or library must be imported.

// import the entire utils object with CommonJS
var utils = require('node:utils');
var query = 'Rollup';
// use the ajax method of the utils object
utils.ajax('https://api.example.com?search=' + query).then(handleResponse);

But with ES modules, instead of importing the whole utils object, we can just import the one ajax function we need:

// import the ajax function with an ES import statement
import { ajax } from 'node:utils';

var query = 'Rollup';
// call the ajax function
ajax('https://api.example.com?search=' + query).then(handleResponse);

Because Rollup includes the bare minimum, it results in lighter, faster, and less complicated libraries and applications. Since this approach is based on explicit import and export statements, it is vastly more effective than simply running an automated minifier to detect unused variables in the compiled output code.

Compatibility

Importing CommonJS

Rollup can import existing CommonJS modules through a plugin.

Publishing ES Modules

To make sure your ES modules are immediately usable by tools that work with CommonJS such as Node.js and webpack, you can use Rollup to compile to UMD or CommonJS format, and then point to that compiled version with the main property in your package.json file. If your package.json file also has a module field, ES-module-aware tools like Rollup and webpack will import the ES module version directly.

Contributors

This project exists thanks to all the people who contribute. [Contribute]. . If you want to contribute yourself, head over to the contribution guidelines.

Backers

Thank you to all our backers! 🙏 [Become a backer]

Sponsors

Support this project by becoming a sponsor. Your logo will show up here with a link to your website. [Become a sponsor]

Special Sponsor

TNG Logo

TNG has been supporting the work of Lukas Taegert-Atkinson on Rollup since 2017.

License

MIT

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