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. Big.js is particularly useful for financial calculations, cryptography, and any scenario requiring high precision arithmetic.
Decimal.js is a JavaScript library for arbitrary-precision decimal and non-decimal arithmetic. It allows precise handling of decimal numbers without the limitations of native JavaScript number handling, ensuring accurate calculations even with very large or very small numbers. Decimal.js provides a rich set of mathematical operations and functions for working with decimal numbers, making it ideal for financial calculations, scientific computations, and any application requiring high precision arithmetic.
Both Big.js and Decimal.js are popular npm packages for arbitrary-precision decimal arithmetic. Decimal.js has a larger number of weekly downloads and a larger community, making it slightly more popular than Big.js.
Precision and Accuracy
Both libraries offer high precision and accuracy for decimal arithmetic. Decimal.js supports up to 1e+9 digits of precision, while Big.js supports up to 1e+15 digits. If you require extremely high precision, Big.js might be a better choice.
Functionality
Both libraries provide a comprehensive set of mathematical operations and functions for decimal arithmetic. Decimal.js has a slightly larger number of built-in functions and methods, including trigonometric and logarithmic functions, making it more feature-rich.
Ease of Use
Both libraries have a similar API and are easy to use. They provide methods for basic arithmetic operations, comparison, rounding, and formatting. Decimal.js has a more extensive API with additional utility methods, which can be beneficial for complex calculations.
Performance
In terms of performance, Big.js is generally faster than Decimal.js for basic arithmetic operations. However, Decimal.js offers better performance for more complex operations and functions due to its optimized algorithms. The performance difference might vary depending on the specific use case.
Dependencies
Big.js has no external dependencies, making it lightweight and easy to integrate into projects. Decimal.js, on the other hand, has a dependency on the 'ieee754' package. If keeping the package size minimal is a priority, Big.js might be a better choice.
Documentation
Both libraries have well-documented APIs with examples and usage guidelines. Decimal.js has more extensive documentation, including detailed explanations of concepts and functions, making it easier for developers to get started and understand the library.
