A fast and flexible O(n) difference algorithm framework for Swift collections, optimized for animated UI batch updates.
DifferenceKit is a Swift framework that calculates differences between two collections using an optimized O(n) algorithm. It solves the problem of efficiently updating list-based UIs (like UITableView and UICollectionView) with animated changes when the underlying data changes, preventing manual index path calculations and potential crashes.
iOS and macOS developers building apps with complex list interfaces that require performant, animated updates when data changes. It's particularly useful for developers working with data-driven UI components in UIKit, AppKit, or Texture.
Developers choose DifferenceKit for its exceptional performance (fastest among Swift diffing libraries in benchmarks), comprehensive feature set (supports all diff types and collection formats), and built-in safety mechanisms that prevent common batch update crashes.
💻 A fast and flexible O(n) difference algorithm framework for Swift collection.
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Benchmarks show DifferenceKit is the fastest Swift diffing library, processing 100,000 elements in 0.0348 seconds, outperforming competitors like RxDataSources and IGListKit.
Supports all diff types including cross-section moves and reloads, enabling complex UI animations that libraries like Differ or Dwifft lack, as highlighted in the feature comparison.
Stages diffs to prevent crashes during batch updates in UITableView and UICollectionView, addressing a common pitfall that other frameworks don't automatically solve.
Handles both linear and sectioned collections with duplicate elements, offering versatility over frameworks like IGListKit that lack sectioned support.
Requires synchronous data updates in closures; the README warns that forgetting this leads to crashes, adding cognitive overhead and risk for developers.
Large diffs can degrade performance, forcing use of an interrupt closure to revert to reloadData, as admitted in the README, which complicates optimization.
Only compatible with Swift and Apple's UI frameworks, limiting its use in cross-platform or server-side applications where broader support is needed.