What are the differences between TypeScript and JavaScript in React?

What are the main differences between TypeScript and JavaScript when using React?

TypeScript is a superset of JavaScript that adds static typing, which can help catch errors at compile time. In React, this means better type safety for props and state.

Can you give me an example of how TypeScript improves a React component?

Sure! In TypeScript, you can define the types for props like this:

interface MyComponentProps {
  title: string;
  isActive: boolean;
}

const MyComponent: React.FC<MyComponentProps> = ({ title, isActive }) => {
  return <h1>{isActive ? title : 'Inactive'}</h1>;
};

This ensures that title is always a string and isActive is a boolean.

What are the downsides of using TypeScript in a React project?

Some downsides include a steeper learning curve for those unfamiliar with static typing, and the initial setup can be more complex compared to plain JavaScript.

Is it worth switching to TypeScript for a new React project?

If you value type safety and maintainability, especially in larger projects, then yes, TypeScript is often worth the switch.