RTK Query Vs React Query Which one is Better?

Nadim Chowdhury - Oct 30 '23 - - Dev Community

RTK Query and React Query are two popular libraries used in the React ecosystem to manage data fetching, caching, and state management. Each of these libraries has its own unique features and advantages. Here's a comparison of the three:

  1. RTK Query (Redux Toolkit Query): Redux Toolkit Query is an extension of the Redux Toolkit library that provides a set of tools for managing data fetching and caching. It integrates seamlessly with Redux, making it a good choice for projects already using Redux.

Key Features:

  • Built on top of Redux Toolkit, so it works well with Redux-based applications.
  • Automatic caching and background data synchronization.
  • Integrated error handling and retries.
  • Powerful querying syntax with support for pagination, sorting, and filtering.
  • Optimistic updates for optimistic UI rendering.
  • Integration with the Redux store, allowing data to be easily accessed and updated through Redux slices.
  • Built-in support for TypeScript.
  1. React Query: React Query is a standalone library focused on data fetching and caching, without requiring Redux. It aims to simplify data fetching in React applications and provides a clean and declarative API.

Key Features:

  • Built-in caching with automatic background data synchronization.
  • Flexible and declarative API for defining queries, mutations, and invalidations.
  • Granular control over query invalidation and cache management.
  • Supports various data sources like REST, GraphQL, and more.
  • Integration with Suspense for concurrent rendering.
  • Optimistic updates for optimistic UI rendering.
  • Built-in support for server-side rendering (SSR).
  • Great TypeScript support.
  1. Redux Toolkit Query (RTK Query) vs. React Query:
    • Redux Toolkit Query is more tightly integrated with Redux and might be preferred in projects where Redux is already a core part of the state management.
    • React Query is a standalone library and doesn't require Redux. It can be a good fit for projects that want to keep state management separate from data fetching concerns.
    • Both libraries offer automatic caching, background synchronization, and optimistic updates.
    • React Query provides a more flexible and declarative API for query invalidation and cache management.
    • RTK Query leverages Redux slices and stores for data access and updates, which might be more comfortable for developers familiar with Redux concepts.
    • React Query has a strong focus on concurrency and supports Suspense, which can lead to a smoother user experience during data loading.

In summary, the choice between RTK Query, React Query, and Redux Toolkit Query depends on your project's requirements and existing architecture. If you're heavily invested in Redux, RTK Query might be a good fit. If you're looking for a standalone data-fetching solution with a clean API, React Query is a strong contender.

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