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    Preact

    Fast 3kb alternative to React with the same ES6 API.

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    ToolTrim verdict3.8/ 5Great

    Preact shines for PWAs and lightweight apps; choose it when bundle size and critical performance matter.

    Preact, preview 1
    About

    In practice. What you can do with Preact.

    Preact is a 3kb alternative to React with the same API, ideal for projects where bundle size is critical.

    Practical uses

    • Build a lightweight and fast Progressive Web App (PWA).
    • Create an embeddable widget to integrate into other sites.
    • Develop for marketsSlow internet connections.

    Features & use cases

    Frontend framework
    UI components

    Pros and cons. What Preact does well, and what to expect.

    Pros

    • Extremely lightweight: 3 kB only (vs 45 kB for React).
    • Nearly identical API to React, easy for React developers.
    • Excellent performance even on slow networks.
    • React-compatible via preact/compat, allows reusing React components.

    Cons

    • Smaller ecosystem than React.
    • Fewer Preact-specific libraries and tools.
    • Smaller community, fewer answers to questions.

    When it makes sense. Keep Preact, or challenge it?

    Keep if

    • You're building a Progressive Web App (PWA) or embedded application.
    • You want React but with minimal bundle size.

    Challenge if

    • You need many React-specific libraries.
    • You work in a large team accustomed to React and its patterns.

    Pricing. What does Preact cost ?

    Free

    $0

    Open source / Free

    Alternatives. What could replace Preact?

    Current

    Direct substitutes

    Our verdict. What to know about Preact.

    Why this verdict

    Great

    Preact is fairly easy to replace with an alternative, a free tier to test before paying, clearly documented use cases.

    Preact Summary

    Category
    productivity tool.
    Price from
    Free.
    Best for
    professionals.
    Avoid if
    You need many React-specific libraries; You work in a large team accustomed to React and its patterns.
    Alternatives
    React, Svelte.
    ToolTrim verdict
    Preact shines for PWAs and lightweight apps; choose it when bundle size and critical performance matter.

    Frequently asked questions.

    What to know before choosing Preact.

    What is Preact used for?

    Fast 3kb alternative to React with the same ES6 API.

    How much does Preact cost?

    Preact costs $0 (free).

    Is Preact suitable for beginners?

    Preact suits most professionals. See the "Who is it for" section for details.

    Is Preact worth the price?

    Preact shines for PWAs and lightweight apps; choose it when bundle size and critical performance matter.

    What are the best alternatives to Preact?

    The main alternatives to Preact are: React, Svelte. Free alternatives: React, Svelte.

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