What are the differences between DOM and Virtual DOM?

What are the differences between DOM and Virtual DOM?

The DOM (Document Object Model) is a representation of the structure of a web page, while the Virtual DOM is a lightweight copy of the actual DOM used by libraries like React to optimize rendering.

Why is Virtual DOM faster than regular DOM?

Virtual DOM is faster because it minimizes direct manipulation of the actual DOM, which is slow. It allows for batch updates and efficient re-rendering.

Can you explain how Virtual DOM updates the actual DOM?

Sure! When changes occur, the Virtual DOM creates a new representation of the UI. It then compares this with the previous version (a process called 'diffing') and calculates the most efficient way to update the actual DOM.

Are there any downsides to using Virtual DOM?

Yes, while Virtual DOM improves performance, it adds a layer of complexity and can consume more memory. It's also not always necessary for simpler applications.