Class or Function Components in React: Which One Should You Use?

Understanding the difference between Class and Function Components can help you decide which one to use for your next application.

Class Components:

Class Components are ES6 classes that extend from React.Component and have a render method to return JSX. Classes were the primary way to handle state and lifecycle methods before React Hooks were introduced.

Example of a Class Component

Functional Components:

Functional Components are simple JavaScript functions that return JSX. With the introduction of React Hooks, functions can now manage state and lifecycle methods, making them very useful and preferred for new projects.

How Do They Differ?

• Syntax: Class Components use ES6 class syntax, while Function Components use function syntax.
• State and Lifecycle: Class Components manage state and lifecycle methods directly within the class, while Function Components use Hooks for state and lifecycle management.
• Performance: Function Components are generally more performant due to less boilerplate and better optimization by React.

When to Use Which?

• Class Components: Use Class Components if you’re working with an older codebase that already uses classes extensively or need to use lifecycle methods more naturally expressed in a class.
• Function Components: Go for Function Components for new projects, as they are simpler, more powerful, and easier to read, test, and maintain.

Which one do you use the most in your projects and why ?

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