Head-to-Head: ky vs node-fetch Analysis

ky

v1.7.2(5 days ago)

This package is actively maintained.Types definitions are bundled with the npm packageNumber of direct dependencies: 0Monthly npm downloads

Ky is a lightweight and modern HTTP client for the browser and Node.js. It offers a simple and intuitive API for making HTTP requests with features like automatic JSON parsing, request cancellation, and support for browser-specific features like progress events and aborting requests. Ky also provides built-in support for retries, timeouts, and request headers customization.

Alternatives:
axios+
node-fetch+
got+
superagent+
swr+
axios-hooks+
unfetch+
request+
fetch-retry+
httpie+

Tags: httpclientbrowsernode.jsmodern

node-fetch

v3.3.2(about 1 year ago)

This package was last published over a year ago. It may not be actively maintained.Types definitions are bundled with the npm packageNumber of direct dependencies: 3Monthly npm downloads

Node-fetch is a lightweight and efficient library that brings window.fetch to Node.js environments. It allows you to make HTTP requests in a simple and straightforward manner, supporting features like streaming, promises, and async/await syntax. Node-fetch is known for its ease of use and compatibility with the Fetch API, making it a popular choice for handling network requests in Node.js applications.

Alternatives:
axios+
got+
superagent+
request+
isomorphic-fetch+
node-superfetch+
undici+
ky+
phin+
centra+

Tags: node.jshttpfetchpromisesasync/await

Fight!

Popularity

Both `ky` and `node-fetch` are popular npm packages for making HTTP requests in JavaScript. `node-fetch` has been around for longer and has gained a solid reputation in the Node.js community. `ky` is relatively newer but has quickly gained popularity due to its simplicity and modern API design.

Ease of Use

`ky` provides a more intuitive and modern API for making HTTP requests. It has a much simpler and cleaner syntax compared to `node-fetch`, making it easier to work with. `node-fetch` has a more traditional, callback-based API which may feel less intuitive for some developers.

Browser Support

`ky` is designed to work seamlessly in both Node.js and browser environments, making it a great choice for universal JavaScript applications. On the other hand, `node-fetch` is primarily intended for use in Node.js and requires additional setup or polyfills to work in browser environments.

Flexibility

Both packages offer similar functionality for making HTTP requests, such as setting headers, handling cookies, or using custom request options. However, `ky` provides additional features like automatic JSON parsing and serialization, retrying failed requests, and built-in support for request cancellation.

Interception and Middleware

Both packages allow interception and modification of HTTP requests and responses. However, `ky` provides a more robust middleware system that allows chaining multiple interceptors, enabling advanced request/response manipulation. `node-fetch` requires more manual setup for interception or modification of requests and responses.

Package Size

`ky` is a smaller package size-wise, thanks to its modular design and tree shaking support. It only includes the essential functionality needed for making HTTP requests. On the other hand, `node-fetch` has a larger package size as it includes additional polyfills and features for compatibility across different environments.

Community and Maintenance

Both packages have active communities and are well-maintained by their respective authors. `node-fetch` has been widely adopted and used in many projects, ensuring its stability. `ky` may have a smaller community, but it is actively maintained and regularly updated with bug fixes and new features.