React Native vs React Redux: What are the differences?

Introduction

React Native and React Redux are two popular frameworks used in web development. While both are based on React, they serve different purposes and have distinct differences. In this article, we will explore the key differences between React Native and React Redux.

1. Code Execution: React Native is primarily used for developing mobile applications for iOS and Android platforms. It allows developers to write code using JavaScript and CSS, and then converts the code into native components specific to each platform. On the other hand, React Redux is a state management library that works in conjunction with React. It allows developers to manage application state and handle data flow efficiently.

2. User Interface: React Native provides a set of pre-defined components that are specific to mobile platforms. These components allow developers to build native-like user interfaces easily and quickly. React Redux, on the other hand, doesn't provide any specific components for user interface. It focuses on managing state and data flow within the application.

3. Platform Compatibility: React Native enables developers to build applications that are compatible with both iOS and Android platforms using a single codebase. This significantly reduces the development time and effort required to target multiple platforms. React Redux, however, can be used in any web application built using React, regardless of the platform it is deployed on.

4. State Management: React Native does not come with built-in state management like React Redux does. While React Native allows developers to manage state within individual components, it doesn't provide a global state management solution. React Redux, on the other hand, offers a robust state management system that allows developers to easily share and manage state across components.

5. Data Flow: React Native follows a unidirectional data flow architecture, where data flows from the parent component to child components only through props. React Redux also follows a unidirectional data flow, but it introduces the concept of a centralized store where all application state is stored. Components can access and modify the state using actions and reducers, simplifying the data flow management.

6. Development Community: React Native has a larger development community compared to React Redux. This means there are more resources, libraries, and community support available for React Native development. React Redux, although not as large as React Native community-wise, still has a strong community of developers who actively contribute to the library's development and provide support to fellow developers.

In summary, React Native is primarily focused on building mobile applications for iOS and Android platforms, providing native-like user interfaces and easy cross-platform development. React Redux, on the other hand, is a state management library that works with React, allowing for efficient state management and data flow in web applications.