Big.js is a JavaScript library for arbitrary-precision arithmetic, allowing precise handling of large numbers without losing accuracy due to JavaScript's limitations with floating-point arithmetic. It provides methods for basic arithmetic operations like addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division, as well as advanced functions like square root and exponentiation.
Bn.js is a high-performance JavaScript library for arbitrary-precision integer arithmetic. It is commonly used in cryptographic algorithms, big number calculations, and other scenarios where precision and performance are crucial. Bn.js provides a wide range of operations for working with large integers, including addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, and modular arithmetic.
Both `big.js` and `bn.js` are popular npm packages, but `bn.js` has gained more popularity and widespread usage due to its association with cryptographic operations and being a dependency in other popular libraries like Ethereum.
Purpose
`big.js` and `bn.js` serve different purposes. `big.js` is focused on providing arbitrary-precision decimal arithmetic, while `bn.js` is designed specifically for performing arithmetic with big integers and is often used in cryptography applications.
API and Features
The APIs of both packages are well-documented and provide a range of features for performing arithmetic operations. `big.js` offers a comprehensive set of methods for decimal arithmetic, including addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, and more. `bn.js`, on the other hand, provides functionalities for working with big integers, such as bitwise operations, modular arithmetic, and prime number operations.
Performance
In terms of performance, `bn.js` is generally more performant than `big.js` when it comes to handling large numbers and performing cryptographic operations. However, for decimal arithmetic, `big.js` may be faster due to its specialized focus on decimals. Both libraries have optimizations in place to ensure efficient calculations.
Dependencies and Size
`bn.js` has minimal external dependencies, making it lightweight and efficient. On the other hand, `big.js` has a few optional dependencies, such as `decimal.js`, which provides additional features for decimal arithmetic. This results in a slightly larger package size compared to `bn.js`.
Community and Maintenance
Both `big.js` and `bn.js` have active communities and are well-maintained. They receive updates and bug fixes regularly. However, due to its association with cryptographic operations and wider usage, `bn.js` often has a more extensive community support and a larger pool of contributors.
