Difference Between JavaScript Arrays and Objects
Last Updated :
12 Nov, 2024
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Below are the main differences between a JavaScript Array and Object.
| Feature | JavaScript Arrays | JavaScript Objects |
|---|---|---|
| Index Type | Numeric indexes (0, 1, 2, ...) | Named keys (strings or symbols) |
| Order | Ordered collection | Unordered collection |
| Use Case | Storing lists, sequences, ordered data | Storing data with key-value pairs, attributes |
| Accessing Elements | Accessed by index (e.g., arr[0]) | Accessed by key (e.g., obj["key"]) |
| Iteration | Typically iterated using loops like for or forEach | Iterated using for...in, Object.keys(), or Object.entries() |
| Size Flexibility | Dynamic, can grow or shrink in size | Dynamic, can add or remove key-value pairs |
When to use JavaScript Arrays and Objects?
- Use arrays when you need numeric indexing and order matters.
- Use objects when you need named keys and the relationship between keys and values is important.
