BrowserSync vs LiveReload: What are the differences?

Introduction:

BrowserSync and LiveReload are both tools used for automating the development workflow of web applications. They provide a means to live reload web pages as changes are made to the source code, improving the development experience. However, there are key differences between the two tools that make them distinct in their functionality and usage.

1. Installation and Setup: BrowserSync requires installation as a development dependency using npm, and it can be used with any build tool. On the other hand, LiveReload requires the installation of a browser extension, and it works with specific build tools such as Grunt, Gulp, or their associated plugins.

2. File Watching and Reload Strategies: BrowserSync has more advanced file watching capabilities, allowing it to detect changes in any file type (HTML, CSS, JavaScript, etc.) and automatically refresh the connected browsers. It can also synchronize interactions such as scrolling and clicking across multiple browsers. LiveReload primarily focuses on monitoring changes in CSS properties and reloading the page when these changes occur.

3. Live CSS Injection: BrowserSync has the ability to inject CSS changes directly into the browser without reloading the entire page. This allows for a faster and more seamless development experience as CSS changes can be seen instantly. LiveReload, on the other hand, always reloads the entire page when CSS changes are detected.

4. URL Rewriting and External Device Testing: BrowserSync provides URL rewriting capabilities, allowing you to test your application on different devices connected to the same network. By accessing a specific URL provided by BrowserSync, you can view and test your application on external devices. LiveReload does not offer this functionality.

5. JavaScript Injection and Testing: BrowserSync has the ability to inject changes made to JavaScript files without reloading the entire page, similar to its live CSS injection feature. It allows for quicker testing and debugging of JavaScript functionality. LiveReload does not have this capability.

6. Development Tools Integration: BrowserSync seamlessly integrates with popular development tools such as Grunt, Gulp, and Webpack, making it easier to incorporate into existing setups. It provides plugins and specific configuration options for these tools. LiveReload, on the other hand, is primarily integrated with Grunt and Gulp, and has limited options for other build tools.

In summary, BrowserSync and LiveReload both provide live reloading functionality for web development, but BrowserSync offers more advanced features such as live CSS and JavaScript injection, URL rewriting for external device testing, and better integration with various development tools. LiveReload, on the other hand, has a simpler setup process and is focused on CSS property changes and basic page reloading.