Webpack vs Webpacker vs gulp: What are the differences?

1. Architecture: Webpack is a module bundler for modern JavaScript applications, whereas Webpacker is a gem that integrates Webpack with Rails apps. Gulp is a task runner that helps automate various tasks such as minification, concatenation, and more.
2. Configuration: Webpack allows for extensive configuration options, making it highly customizable for different project needs. Webpacker simplifies this process by providing default configurations for Rails applications. Gulp also offers configuration options but is generally considered more straightforward and easier to set up compared to Webpack.
3. Plugins and Ecosystem: Webpack has a vast ecosystem of plugins that extend its functionality and cater to different use cases. Webpacker leverages these plugins but focuses more on integrating Webpack specifically with Rails. Gulp also has a rich ecosystem of plugins, but they are typically more focused on enhancing build processes rather than module bundling.
4. Code Splitting: Webpack excels in code splitting, allowing developers to split their code into bundles that load efficiently. Webpacker works well with code splitting too but takes a Rails-centric approach to optimizing asset loading. While Gulp can achieve code splitting, it requires more configuration and setup compared to Webpack and Webpacker.
5. Hot Module Replacement: Webpack provides a feature called Hot Module Replacement, which allows for real-time updates in the browser without a full page reload. Webpacker integrates this feature for Rails developers to enhance their development workflow. Gulp, on the other hand, does not have built-in support for Hot Module Replacement, requiring additional tools or configurations to achieve similar functionality.
6. Community Adoption: Webpack has gained significant community adoption and is widely used for modern JavaScript projects. Webpacker, being Rails-specific, is embraced by the Rails community but may not have as broad usage outside this environment. Gulp, although popular in the past, has seen a decline in usage with the rise of more modern tools like Webpack.

In Summary, Webpack, Webpacker, and Gulp each offer distinct characteristics in terms of architecture, configuration, ecosystem, code splitting, hot module replacement, and community adoption, catering to different needs and preferences in web development workflows.