Zustand vs redux-saga: What are the differences?

Introduction

Zustand and redux-saga are both state management libraries commonly used in JavaScript applications. While they serve similar purposes, there are several key differences between the two that set them apart in terms of their approach and functionality.

1. Dependency on external libraries: Zustand is a standalone state management library that does not have any external dependencies. On the other hand, redux-saga relies on redux and redux-thunk libraries for managing application state and handling side effects. This makes Zustand a lightweight option, whereas redux-saga has additional dependencies that need to be installed and configured.

2. Synchronous vs Asynchronous: Zustand is primarily designed for managing synchronous state and focuses on simplicity and performance. It allows you to directly mutate state values, making it easier to use in synchronous scenarios. In contrast, redux-saga is more suited for managing asynchronous workflows, such as handling API requests and managing complex side effects. It uses a generator-based approach to handle asynchronous actions and provides more flexibility in managing complex async operations.

3. Built-in middleware and side effect handling: Redux-saga provides built-in middleware that allows you to handle side effects like API calls, caching, and more. It provides a separate layer for managing side effects and enables you to write complex asynchronous logic as separate sagas, keeping your reducers clean and focused on state updates. Zustand, on the other hand, does not have built-in middleware and does not provide specific tools for handling side effects. It is primarily focused on managing state and does not provide direct support for handling asynchronous actions or complex side effect logic.

4. Size and performance: Zustand is a smaller and lightweight library compared to redux-saga. Being a smaller library, it has a smaller footprint and can be beneficial for applications with performance constraints or limited network bandwidth. Redux-saga, on the other hand, is a more feature-rich library that comes with a larger codebase and has a larger footprint. This can impact application performance and bundle size, especially in smaller applications where additional features provided by redux-saga may not be required.

5. Learning curve and complexity: Zustand offers a simpler and more straightforward API compared to redux-saga. It is easier to learn and understand, making it a suitable choice for smaller projects or developers who prefer a simpler approach to state management. Redux-saga, on the other hand, has a steeper learning curve due to its generator-based approach and additional concepts like sagas, effects, and watchers. It is more suitable for larger projects or applications with complex asynchronous workflows that require fine-grained control over side effects.

6. Community and ecosystem: Redux, the library that redux-saga relies on, has been a widely adopted state management solution in the JavaScript ecosystem for years. This has led to a vast community and ecosystem around redux, with numerous libraries, tools, and resources available for usage and support. Zustand, being a newer library, has a smaller community and ecosystem compared to redux-saga. While both libraries have active communities, the broader adoption and maturity of redux and its associated ecosystem can be advantageous in terms of community support, documentation, and available resources.

In Summary, Zustand and redux-saga differ in terms of their dependencies, approach to state management, handling of side effects, size and performance, learning curve, and community support. Understanding these differences can help developers make an informed choice when selecting a state management solution for their projects.