How do I embed ChakraCore in my C++ project?

Use the C API by building from source or using pre-built binaries, then integrate it per the embedding documentation; the `ch` host app helps with initial testing and debugging.

Is ChakraCore still being updated after Microsoft dropped it?

Yes, it's community-driven with plans for future releases focused on embedded use, but official Microsoft support ended, so updates depend on volunteer efforts.

ChakraCore vs V8: which is better for embedding?

ChakraCore is lighter and C-focused for embedded scenarios, while V8 is more feature-rich with broader ecosystem support; choose based on need for simplicity vs. functionality.

What platforms does ChakraCore support for ARM?

ARM support is only available on Windows currently; support for ARM on Linux and macOS is a future goal, as stated in the README's architecture plans.

Can I use ChakraCore to run Node.js apps?

No, it lacks Node.js APIs; you'd need to implement those APIs yourself, making it unsuitable for drop-in Node.js compatibility without significant work.

How to debug JavaScript code in ChakraCore?

Use the `ch` host application for basic testing with print statements, and implement custom debugging via the C API for more advanced scenarios, as noted in the documentation.

Open-Awesome

ChakraCore

MITJavaScriptv1.11.24

An open-source JavaScript engine with a C API for embedding JavaScript support into C/C++ projects.

GitHub

9.2k stars1.2k forks0 contributors

What is ChakraCore?

ChakraCore is an open-source JavaScript engine that provides a C API for embedding JavaScript support into C or C++ projects. It allows developers to add JavaScript execution capabilities to native applications, serving as a standalone runtime without browser-specific APIs. The project is community-maintained and focuses on embedded use cases, offering cross-platform compatibility for x64 processors.

Target Audience

Developers working on C/C++ applications who need to integrate JavaScript scripting, particularly those in embedded systems or tools requiring a lightweight, embeddable JavaScript runtime.

Value Proposition

ChakraCore offers a performant, embeddable JavaScript engine with a straightforward C API, making it ideal for integrating JavaScript into native projects without the bloat of full browser environments. Its community-driven development and focus on embedded scenarios provide a flexible alternative to larger engines.

Overview

ChakraCore is an open source Javascript engine with a C API.

Use Cases

Best For

Embedding JavaScript in C/C++ desktop applications
Adding scripting capabilities to game engines or tools
Building lightweight JavaScript runtimes for IoT devices
Integrating JavaScript into native mobile apps (via C API)
Creating custom JavaScript hosts for testing or automation
Developing educational tools for JavaScript engine internals

Not Ideal For

Projects requiring full web browser APIs like DOM or fetch for web application development
Teams needing a JavaScript engine with active vendor support and long-term security updates
Applications targeting ARM or x86 architectures on Linux or macOS in production environments
Developers looking for a drop-in solution with Node.js compatibility for server-side scripting

Pros & Cons

Pros

C API Integration

Provides a straightforward C API for embedding JavaScript into C/C++ applications, enabling seamless integration with native code as highlighted in the key features.

Cross-Platform x64 Support

Compiles for x64 processors on Linux, macOS, and Windows, offering flexibility for desktop and embedded systems without vendor lock-in.

Embedded-Focused Optimization

Designed as a lightweight engine without browser-specific APIs, ideal for resource-constrained environments like IoT devices, per the project philosophy.

Community-Driven Development

Maintained by the community with ongoing plans for enhancements, ensuring continued evolution for embedded use cases despite Microsoft's end of support.

Cons

Ended Official Support

Microsoft has discontinued official support and security updates, which may introduce risks for critical applications relying on stable vendor backing.

Limited Architecture Support

Full cross-platform compatibility is incomplete; x86 and ARM support is currently limited to Windows, with Linux and macOS support being future goals.

No Built-in Web APIs

Lacks standard browser APIs, requiring developers to implement custom solutions for web-like functionality, adding complexity to embedding projects.

Frequently Asked Questions

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