What are the best practices for using timers in JavaScript?

What are the best practices for using timers in JavaScript?

When using timers in JavaScript, it's important to consider accuracy, performance, and cleanup. Use setTimeout and setInterval wisely, and always clear timers when they're no longer needed.

Can you explain the difference between setTimeout and setInterval?

Sure! setTimeout executes a function once after a specified delay, while setInterval repeatedly executes a function at specified intervals until cleared.

How can I ensure that my timers don't cause memory leaks?

To prevent memory leaks, always clear your timers using clearTimeout or clearInterval when they are no longer needed, especially in long-running applications.

Are there any alternatives to using timers in JavaScript?

Yes, you can use Promises with async/await for delays, or leverage requestAnimationFrame for animations, which can be more efficient.