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What’s the Difference Between Vite and Vue CLI?

When it comes to building modern web applications, developers often have a choice of tools and frameworks. Two popular options for projects using Vue.js are Vite and Vue CLI. Both help streamline the development process, but they do so in different ways. Let’s break down their differences and how they might best serve your development needs.

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Published onNovember 5, 2024
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What’s the Difference Between Vite and Vue CLI?

When it comes to building modern web applications, developers often have a choice of tools and frameworks. Two popular options for projects using Vue.js are Vite and Vue CLI. Both help streamline the development process, but they do so in different ways. Let’s break down their differences and how they might best serve your development needs.

What Is Vue CLI?

Vue CLI is a command-line interface for developing Vue applications. It has been around for a while and offers a structured environment to start and manage Vue projects. Here’s what you can typically expect from Vue CLI:

  • Project Scaffolding: Vue CLI allows developers to quickly set up a new Vue project with a variety of templates.
  • Plugins and Presets: It supports a rich ecosystem of plugins, enabling additional features like TypeScript, PWA support, and more.
  • Built-In Configuration: While it offers a configuration file for advanced users, many developers can get started without needing to modify any settings.
  • Development Server: Vue CLI includes a built-in development server that serves the application and provides hot module replacement (HMR) for a smoother development experience.

While Vue CLI is very powerful and versatile, it comes with some overhead in terms of build size and configuration complexity.

What Is Vite?

Vite is a newer build tool that has gained popularity for its speed and simplicity. Focused on modern standards and best practices, Vite offers a streamlined approach to front-end development. Here’s a closer look at Vite:

  • Lightning-Fast Development: Vite uses native ES modules to serve files during development, which means it only needs to reload files that actually change rather than everything.
  • Instant Updates: When you save changes in your code, updates are almost immediate. This significantly improves the developer experience compared to traditional bundlers.
  • Simpler Configuration: Vite emphasizes a less complex setup. You can get started quickly without worrying about intricate configurations.
  • Production-Ready Builds: With Vite, building for production is optimized, resulting in smaller and more efficient bundles.

With its focus on speed, Vite is an attractive option for those looking for a more efficient development workflow.

Which One Should You Choose?

Choosing between Vite and Vue CLI can depend on several factors. Here are some things to consider:

Project Size and Complexity

  • Vue CLI: If you are working on a large application with many dependencies and require advanced features like TypeScript or PWA support, Vue CLI may be more suitable for managing complexity.
  • Vite: For smaller projects or prototypes, Vite is a fantastic choice due to its quick setup and fast refresh capabilities.

Development Experience

  • Vue CLI: While it has robust features, the initial setup might require more configuration. Depending on your project needs, this might or might not be a concern.
  • Vite: If speed and efficiency during development are your priorities, Vite offers a seamless experience that keeps you in the flow.

Learning Curve

  • Vue CLI: May have a bit steeper learning curve due to its comprehensive feature set and ecosystem.
  • Vite: Has a gentler learning curve, making it approachable for new developers or those who want to rapidly prototype their ideas.

Community and Ecosystem

  • Vue CLI: Being older, it has an established ecosystem and many plugins available, which can be a big plus.
  • Vite: Rapidly growing in popularity, and its ecosystem is expanding quickly with many plugins already available.

Performance

  • Vue CLI: Great performance, but due to its architecture, it might not match the speed Vite offers during development.
  • Vite: Known for exceptional speed during development which can significantly improve productivity.

Choosing between Vite and Vue CLI can feel daunting, but it ultimately comes down to your specific requirements. If you prefer a complicated structure that supports a range of plugins and has a long track record, Vue CLI remains a solid option. For those who prioritize speed and a straightforward setup for new projects, Vite shines as a fantastic choice.

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