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Comparison guide

Express vs Hono

Side-by-side NPM package comparison

Hero image for Express vs Hono

Quick Verdict

Express leads across all categories in this comparison. Check the detailed metrics below to see how each package performs for your specific needs.

express icon

express

Niche

Version 5.2.1

0
67
Good

Fast, unopinionated, minimalist web framework

Weekly Downloads
0

Trend data unavailable

Bundle (gzip)
22.1 KB
Updated
Vulns
0

Health Score Breakdown

Maintenance
100
Popularity
10
Quality
50
Security
100
Stability
70
hono icon

hono

Niche

Version 4.13.2

0
67
Good

Web framework built on Web Standards

Weekly Downloads
0

Trend data unavailable

Bundle (gzip)
404.6 KB
Updated
Vulns
0

Health Score Breakdown

Maintenance
100
Popularity
10
Quality
50
Security
100
Stability
70

Choosing between Express and Hono? Here's a data-driven comparison based on real npm data — downloads, bundle size, health scores, and more — to help you decide which package fits your project best.

Downloads & Popularity

Express and Hono both have 0 weekly downloads, indicating equal adoption in the ecosystem.

Bundle Size

Express has the smallest gzipped bundle at 22.1 KB. Hono comes in at 404.6 KB. A smaller bundle size means faster page loads, which improves user experience and Core Web Vitals scores.

Health Score Comparison

Express has an overall health score of 67/100 (good), with strong maintenance, security scores. Hono has an overall health score of 67/100 (good), with strong maintenance, security scores. Health scores are calculated from maintenance activity, code quality, security posture, popularity, and stability metrics.

When to Choose Each

Choose Express if you value actively maintained, strong security track record. Choose Hono if you value actively maintained, strong security track record.

Our Verdict

Both Express and Hono are solid choices for JavaScript development. Express has the edge in overall health score (67/100), while each package brings unique strengths to the table. Evaluate them based on your project's priorities — whether that's community size, bundle efficiency, or maintenance activity — and choose the one that aligns best with your requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is express better than hono?
It depends on your needs. Express has a health score of 67/100 while Hono scores 67/100. Express has more weekly downloads (0), suggesting broader adoption. Consider your specific requirements — bundle size, community support, and feature set — to decide which is the better fit.
Which has a smaller bundle size, express or hono?
Express has the smaller gzipped bundle at 22.1 KB. A smaller bundle means faster load times for your users, which can positively impact SEO and user experience.
How many developers use express vs hono?
Based on npm download statistics, Express has approximately 0 weekly downloads and Hono has approximately 0 weekly downloads. These numbers reflect package installations, not unique developers, but they indicate relative adoption levels.
Which is better maintained, express or hono?
Express currently has the higher overall health score at 67/100. Express has a maintenance score of 100/100 and Hono scores 100/100 on maintenance.

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