Redux vs Zustand: What are the differences?

Redux and Zustand are state management libraries for JavaScript applications but they differ in design and usage. Let's explore the key differences between Redux and Zustand:

1. Conceptual Approach: Redux follows a centralized and predictable state management approach. It enforces a strict unidirectional data flow and uses a single global state store, known as the Redux store, to manage application state. Zustand, on the other hand, follows a decentralized state management approach. It allows multiple isolated stores to manage different parts of the application state independently.

2. Complexity and Boilerplate: Redux is known for its robust ecosystem and extensive set of middleware and tooling. However, it requires more boilerplate code to set up and manage the store, actions, and reducers. Zustand, on the other hand, aims to reduce complexity and boilerplate. It provides a simplified API and requires fewer code constructs to define and use stores, actions, and selectors.

3. Immutability: Redux encourages immutable updates to the state by creating new copies of the state objects. Zustand, on the other hand, embraces mutable updates by allowing direct modifications to the state. It leverages JavaScript proxies to track state changes efficiently, providing a simpler and more flexible approach to state updates.

4. Performance and React Integration: Redux is highly optimized for performance and works well with React applications. It uses a diffing algorithm to efficiently update the DOM based on state changes. Zustand also provides excellent performance, as it leverages React's built-in state management capabilities, such as React's context and useState hook. Zustand integrates seamlessly with React components, making it easy to use within React applications.

5. Middleware and DevTools: Redux has a wide range of middleware options, such as redux-thunk and redux-saga, which allow for advanced state management and asynchronous actions. It also provides powerful DevTools. Zustand, on the other hand, offers a simpler middleware approach through its built-in middleware system. While it may not have as extensive a middleware ecosystem as Redux, it provides a lightweight and straightforward solution. Zustand also has its own DevTools extension for debugging and inspecting store state.

6. Community and Ecosystem: Redux has a large and mature ecosystem with abundant community support, extensive documentation, and numerous third-party libraries and integrations. It is widely adopted and has a thriving ecosystem of middleware, tooling, and developer resources. Zustand, although newer, has gained popularity for its simplicity and lightweight nature. While its ecosystem may not be as extensive as Redux, it has an active community and growing support.

In summary, Redux and Zustand are state management libraries for JavaScript applications, each with its own design principles and trade-offs. Redux follows a centralized and predictable approach, while Zustand embraces a decentralized and simpler approach.