Difference Between Npx and Npm?

Difference between npx and npm?

If you are a JavaScript developer, you have probably come across the terms “npx” and “npm” quite often. While they are both related to package management in JavaScript, they serve different purposes. In this blog post, we will explore the differences between npx and npm and when to use each one.

What is npm?

npm (Node Package Manager) is the default package manager for JavaScript and the world’s largest software registry. It comes bundled with Node.js and allows developers to install, publish, and manage packages and dependencies for their projects. npm is primarily used to install packages globally or locally within a project.

To install a package using npm, you would typically use the following command:

npm install package-name

This command installs the specified package and its dependencies into the “node_modules” folder of your project. You can then require or import the installed package in your code.

What is npx?

npx is a tool that comes bundled with npm since version 5.2.0. It allows you to execute packages without the need to install them globally or locally. npx is particularly useful for running command-line tools or scripts that are included in packages.

With npx, you can run a package directly from the npm registry or execute a specific version of a package without installing it globally. This eliminates the need to manage and update global packages, making your development environment more streamlined and avoiding version conflicts.

When to use npm?

npm is best used for managing dependencies and packages that you need to use throughout your project. It allows you to install packages globally, making them available for all projects, or locally within a specific project.

Use npm when you want to install packages for your project using the following command:

npm install package-name

When to use npx?

npx is ideal for running command-line tools or scripts that are included in packages. It allows you to execute these tools without the need to install them globally or locally. npx also helps in executing different versions of a package without conflicts.

Use npx when you want to run a command-line tool or script from a package using the following command:

npx package-name

Conclusion

In summary, npm is used for managing packages and dependencies, while npx is used for executing command-line tools and scripts without the need for installation. Understanding the differences between npx and npm will help you make the right choice depending on your specific use case.