Purpose and Functionality
- tslib:
tslib is a runtime library for TypeScript that contains helper functions that are used by TypeScript's emitted code. It aims to reduce the size of the output JavaScript by providing shared implementations of common TypeScript features, such as spread operators and async functions.
- ts-helpers:
ts-helpers provides a minimal set of helper functions that TypeScript uses to implement certain language features. It is designed to be lightweight and is particularly useful for projects that need to support older JavaScript environments without introducing significant overhead.
Bundle Size
- tslib:
tslib is larger than ts-helpers but provides a more extensive set of utilities. While it may increase the bundle size slightly, it optimizes the generated code by reusing common functions, which can lead to better performance in larger applications.
- ts-helpers:
ts-helpers is designed to be very small, making it suitable for projects where minimizing bundle size is critical. It only includes the necessary helpers that are required for TypeScript features, ensuring that the footprint remains minimal.
Compatibility
- tslib:
tslib is designed to work seamlessly with modern TypeScript projects and is especially useful when leveraging advanced features like async/await. It is recommended for projects that require compatibility with the latest TypeScript features and optimizations.
- ts-helpers:
ts-helpers is compatible with TypeScript projects that do not require extensive use of advanced TypeScript features. It is particularly beneficial for projects targeting older JavaScript environments where performance is a concern.
Performance
- tslib:
tslib enhances performance in larger applications by reducing the amount of duplicated code in the output JavaScript. By providing shared implementations of common features, it helps to keep the generated code efficient and maintainable.
- ts-helpers:
ts-helpers offers a performance advantage in smaller projects due to its minimalistic approach. It avoids the overhead of larger libraries while still providing essential functionality for TypeScript features.
Use Cases
- tslib:
tslib is best suited for larger applications that heavily utilize TypeScript features and require optimized output. It is recommended for projects that need to manage complex TypeScript constructs and want to ensure efficient runtime performance.
- ts-helpers:
ts-helpers is ideal for small libraries or applications where you want to keep dependencies to a minimum while still utilizing TypeScript features. It is particularly useful for projects that aim for a lightweight footprint.