What events does an `` fire when its value is changed?

javascript

event-handling

input-event

debouncing-techniques

byNikita Barsukov·Aug 25, 2024

An <input type="number"> triggers input and change events. The input event fires with each alteration, while the change event fires when the input is unfocused, assuming a modification occurred.

// Hercules? No, 'Hear'cules - Because we're about to listen for changes! 😉
const numInput = document.querySelector('input[type="number"]');

// Our 'DJ' for real-time changes 
numInput.addEventListener('input', () => console.log('DJ is spinning the input:', numInput.value));

// Broker of confirmed changes 
numInput.addEventListener('change', () => console.log('Change verified:', numInput.value));

These changes can be tracked using the addEventListener for input (down-to-the-wire updates) and change (finalized edits).

How to optimise event handling

Optimizing the user experience with <input type="number"> requires a synchronized dance of event handlers:

input: Ideal for dynamic validation, effecting immediate actions during typing and click events.
change: Acts as a quality-control check, assuring value changes are logged once the user moves on.
blur: Provides an additional layer of validation control, allowing value adjustment when focus leaves.
keyup: Suitable for custom actions tied to specific keypresses.

These events ensure a robust, responsive, and user-friendly form experience.

The Browser hole: Enter the Matrix!

Microsoft Edge may throw a curveball by not triggering events on arrow keypresses, but with the Matrix at your disposal, nothing is impossible! jQuery's .on() method aids in bridging the gap without breaking a sweat.

// jQuery to the rescue! 🦸‍♂️
$('input[type="number"]').on('input', () => { /* The Matrix has you! */ });
$('input[type="number"]').on('change', () => { /* See, Neo, events are everywhere! */ });

Consider simulating a delayed change event with a timer for a smooth user experience by enhancing response performance with debouncing techniques.

The 4 horsemen of event handling

Use a multi-layered approach that attends efficiently to real-time and post-edit changes, including unique keyboard interactions and browser-specific issues.

Continuous Change Detectors

Employ suited input event to react swiftly to continuous changes like keystrokes or mouse wheel inputs.

Value Change Validators

Harness the change event to consolidate the final value when the user shifts the focus.

Keyboard Interaction Handlers

Leverage the keyup event for nuanced user interactions, especially keyboard shortcuts.

Browser-specific Troubleshooters

Ensure cross-browser compatibility by testing and adapting your code, keeping it up-to-date with any known bugs or issues.

Event tips and tricks up your sleeve

Understand the rhythm of the dance of the events and anticipate the nuances that different browsers bring:

Handling Browser Anomalies

Ensure edge cases like mousewheel interactions, prematurely altering the value. Sometimes, you might need keypress for older browsers or specific user requirements.