Reactjs - .JS vs .JSX

Decoding the extensions

The swappable .JS and .JSX

File extensions in React do not dictate their capabilities. Both .JS and .JSX files can hold JSX code and work with bundlers and transpilers, such as Babel and Webpack. The difference really boils down to conventions and readability.

Recognizing codes for editors and organizing code

Majority of code editors can deal with React syntax in both .JS and .JSX. But .JSX lends a hand in organizing code and enhancing readability, thus simplifying the process of distinguishing React components from other JavaScript files.

Bolstering large projects

In vast projects, .JSX files help to quickly identify and navigate components, in turn, boosting team collaboration and development efficiency. Using .JSX to denote JSX usage and .JS for application entry point and non-JSX code results in a tidier and more understandable architectural approach.

Perks for tools and maintenance

Adopting .JSX may lead to clearer error messages and debugging experiences relating to JSX syntax. Refactoring and tooling operations might also function effectively with .JSX.

Using extensions effectively

Consistency is key for maintainable code

For better maintainability, consistent naming conventions help a lot, especially in a team environment. Using .JSX signals that the file hosts a React component structure adorned with JSX syntax.

Thoughtful architecture

In terms of your project's architecture, you might consider using .JS for business logic containers and .JSX for presentational components, thereby splitting tasks across your codebase.

Guiding the juniors

Employing .JSX assists new developers to quickly comprehend the layout and purpose of various files. It acts as an orientation beacon showing JSX usage and respective React paradigms.

Real-world usage

React recommends using JSX, it's not a hard rule but using .JSX extension clearly tells everyone that inside exists React elements or markup. It's like a street sign indicating what's up ahead.

Side-by-side comparison: JSX vs JS

Syntax clarity and verbose handling)

// .JSX code, clean as a whiteboard
const ListComponent = () => (
  <ul>
    <li>Item 1</li>
    <li>Item 2</li>
  </ul>
);


// .JS without JSX, verbosity level: Lawyer!
const ListComponent = () => {
  return React.createElement('ul', null, 
    React.createElement('li', null, 'Item 1'),
    React.createElement('li', null, 'Item 2')
  );
};


Debugging nightmares and sweet dreams

.JSX often yields more specific error messages thanks to its syntactic sugar, thereby easing your debugging nightmares.

The community is your compass

Conform to your project's conventions or industry standards. Though the React community prefers .JSX for JSX containing components, there are no strictly enforced rules.