Difference between Context API and Redux
Both Context API and Redux are used for state management, but they are quite different in purpose, flexibility, and complexity.
Aspect | Context API | Redux |
---|---|---|
Purpose | Share simple global state | Manage complex state logic and side effects |
Boilerplate | Minimal | High (needs actions, reducers, store setup) |
State updates | Localized (Context Provider updates) | Centralized (dispatch actions, reducers handle updates) |
Middleware support | Not built-in | Rich ecosystem (e.g., redux-thunk, redux-saga) |
DevTools | Limited | Excellent (Redux DevTools for time-travel debugging) |
Learning Curve | Easy | Moderate to steep |
Use Case | Themes, auth status, user preferences | Large apps needing complex state flows |
When to use which?
-
Use Context API when:
- You have a small to medium-sized app.
- You need to share simple state like user authentication, app theme, or language settings.
-
Use Redux when:
- You have a large app with complex state logic.
- You need features like time-travel debugging, middleware, or advanced performance optimizations.
Final Thought:
Context API is simpler and built into React — ideal for sharing simple, global data.
Redux is powerful — better suited for big apps with complex, structured data flow.