BigNumber.js is a JavaScript library for arbitrary-precision arithmetic, allowing precise handling of large numbers without losing accuracy. It provides methods for performing arithmetic operations like addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division on numbers with many digits. BigNumber.js is particularly useful for applications that involve financial calculations, cryptography, or any scenario where precision is crucial.
Decimal.js is a JavaScript library for arbitrary-precision decimal and non-decimal arithmetic. It provides accurate and reliable calculations for decimal numbers, avoiding common floating-point errors. Decimal.js supports a wide range of mathematical operations, including addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, and more. It also offers features like rounding, comparison, and formatting of decimal numbers.
Both BigNumber.js and Decimal.js are popular npm packages for working with arbitrary-precision decimal arithmetic. BigNumber.js has been around for longer and has a larger user base, but Decimal.js has also gained popularity in recent years.
Precision and Accuracy
Both libraries offer high precision and accuracy for decimal arithmetic. However, Decimal.js provides more advanced features for controlling precision, rounding, and handling of special values like NaN and Infinity.
Functionality
Both libraries provide a comprehensive set of mathematical operations and functions for working with decimal numbers. BigNumber.js has a slightly larger feature set and supports additional operations like bitwise operations and trigonometric functions.
Ease of Use
Both libraries have a similar API and are easy to use. They provide methods for creating, manipulating, and performing calculations with decimal numbers. Decimal.js has a more intuitive and consistent API, making it slightly easier to work with.
Performance
In terms of performance, BigNumber.js is generally faster than Decimal.js for basic arithmetic operations. However, Decimal.js offers better performance for more complex operations and has optimizations for handling large numbers.
Documentation and Community Support
Both libraries have well-documented APIs and active communities. BigNumber.js has more extensive documentation and a larger community, which means there are more resources and examples available. Decimal.js also has good documentation and community support, but it may be slightly less extensive.