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 performing arithmetic operations like addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division on numbers with arbitrary precision. Big.js is particularly useful for financial calculations, cryptography, and any scenario where precision is crucial.
Bn.js is a powerful JavaScript library for arbitrary-precision integer arithmetic. It is commonly used for cryptographic operations, such as hashing, encryption, and digital signatures, where precision and accuracy are crucial. Bn.js provides a robust set of methods for performing arithmetic operations on 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.
