Data Storage in the Browser on the User Side - A Comparison of Methods

The article discusses the differences and applications of various data storage methods in web browsers, including LocalStorage, IndexedDB, Cookies, OPFS (Origin Private File System), and SQLite with WebAssembly (WASM). It starts with an introduction to basic concepts related to data management and their accessibility within web applications. LocalStorage is described as a simple method for storing data in key-value pairs, limited to a size of 5-10MB and working synchronously, which can lead to performance issues in larger applications. The focus then shifts to IndexedDB, which supports larger data sets and complex queries while utilizing an asynchronous access model. Finally, OPFS is presented as a modern approach to file storage within secure systems, and SQLite is explored as a relational database operating in browsers via WASM, significantly enhancing the data storage potential of web applications. The article also compares the benefits and drawbacks of each method and highlights the use cases where each one is most effective, aiding developers in making informed decisions regarding data storage in their projects.