Ask any question about JavaScript here... and get an instant response.

What is the virtual DOM in React?

Asked on Sep 12, 2025

Answer

The virtual DOM in React is a lightweight, in-memory representation of the actual DOM. React uses it to optimize updates by minimizing direct manipulation of the real DOM, which can be slow.

// Example of React component using virtual DOM
        import React, { useState } from 'react';

        function Counter() {
            const [count, setCount] = useState(0);

            return (
                <div>
                    <p>You clicked {count} times</p>
                    <button onClick={() => setCount(count + 1)}>
                        Click me
                    </button>
                </div>
            );
        }

        export default Counter;

Additional Comment:

React keeps a virtual DOM to efficiently update the real DOM.
When state changes, React creates a new virtual DOM tree.
React compares this new tree with the previous one (a process called "reconciliation").
Only the differences are updated in the real DOM, improving performance.
This approach is particularly beneficial for complex UIs with frequent updates.

✅ Answered with JavaScript best practices.

Ask any question about JavaScript here... and get an instant response.

What is the virtual DOM in React?

Asked on Sep 12, 2025

Answer

The Q&A Network