Filter vs Splice in Javascript

The choice between filter and splice depends on your specific requirements:

Use filter (Better for Immutability):

this.users = this.users.filter(user => user.id !== id);
  • Immutability: Creates a new array without modifying the original one.

  • Readable and Safe: Suitable for modern JavaScript practices where immutability is preferred.

  • Key Usage: When id is not the array index but a property of the object.

Use splice (Better for Performance and In-place Modifications):

const index = this.users.findIndex(user => user.id === id);
if (index !== -1) {
    this.users.splice(index, 1);
}
  • In-place Modification: Directly modifies the original array.

  • Faster: Avoids creating a new array, which can be more performant for very large arrays.

  • Key Usage: When you know the exact index of the item to delete (e.g., you already have id as the index).

Which is Better?

  • For immutability and readability: Use filter.

  • For in-place updates and performance: Use splice.

If id represents a unique property (not the array index), filter is generally more appropriate.