What are the differences between ES6 and CommonJS?

What are the main differences between ES6 and CommonJS?

The main differences include syntax, loading mechanisms, and scope. ES6 uses import and export, while CommonJS uses require and module.exports. Also, ES6 modules are loaded asynchronously, while CommonJS modules are loaded synchronously.

Can you explain the loading mechanisms in more detail?

Sure! In CommonJS, modules are loaded synchronously, meaning the code execution waits for the module to load before proceeding. In contrast, ES6 modules are designed to be loaded asynchronously, allowing for better performance in web applications.

What about the scope of variables in these two systems?

In CommonJS, each module has its own scope, so variables defined in one module are not accessible in another unless explicitly exported. ES6 modules also have their own scope, but they allow for more flexible imports and exports, making it easier to share code.

Which one should I use for a new project?

If you're starting a new project, it's generally recommended to use ES6 modules, as they are the standard for modern JavaScript and offer better support for asynchronous loading and tree-shaking.