esm.run vs jsDelivr: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between esm.run and jsDelivr comes down to understanding what each tool does best. This comparison breaks down the key differences so you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs, not marketing claims.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
esm.run
Load modern JavaScript packages on-demand with global CDN performance.
Best for you if:
- • Delivers JavaScript modules on-demand via a global CDN.
- • Optimized for modern web browsers, Node.js, and Deno environments.
jsDelivr
Free CDN for open source packages
Best for you if:
- • jsDelivr is a free CDN for open-source projects hosted on npm and GitHub
- • It serves JavaScript libraries with global distribution and automatic minification
| At a Glance |  esm.run |  jsDelivr |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | Free | Free |
Best For | CDN | CDN |
Rating | - | - |
Choose esm.run or jsDelivr?
Choose esm.run if
Load modern JavaScript packages on-demand with global CDN performance.
- Simplifies JavaScript module loading without a build step
- Ensures high performance and uptime globally
- Utilizes advanced web delivery optimizations
Choose jsDelivr if
Free CDN for open source packages
- Free CDN for npm/GitHub
- Fast global network
- No configuration
| Feature | esm.run | jsDelivr |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Free |
| User Rating | ★4.3/5 72 reviews | No ratings yet |
| Categories | CDNDeveloper Tools | CDNDeveloper Tools |
In-Depth Analysis
esm.run
Load modern JavaScript packages on-demand with global CDN performance.
Strengths
- +Simplifies JavaScript module loading without a build step
- +Ensures high performance and uptime globally
- +Utilizes advanced web delivery optimizations
- +Suitable for quick demos and prototyping
- +Free to use
Weaknesses
- -Currently in beta for production use
- -Limited information available on the website beyond core functionality
Key features
jsDelivr
Free CDN for open source packages
Strengths
- +Free CDN for npm/GitHub
- +Fast global network
- +No configuration
- +Good uptime
- +Multi-CDN
Weaknesses
- -No custom domains
- -Limited analytics
- -No origin support
- -For public packages only
- -Rate limits possible
Key features
Pricing: esm.run vs jsDelivr
| Plan | esm.run | jsDelivr |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | Free Free | N/A |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on esm.run pricing and jsDelivr pricing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are free. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: esm.run
Want the highest-rated option?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: esm.run
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: jsDelivr
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Both are free. Pricing won't help you decide here.
What's your use case?
Both are cdn tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Key Takeaways
jsDelivr
- Completely free
- Our pick for this comparison
esm.run
- Choose if you want load modern JavaScript packages on-demand with global CDN performance
The Bottom Line
jsDelivr is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is esm.run or jsDelivr better?
jsDelivr is rated in our evaluation. Both are free.
What are esm.run and jsDelivr used for?
esm.run: Load modern JavaScript packages on-demand with global CDN performance.. jsDelivr: Free CDN for open source packages.
What does esm.run cost vs jsDelivr?
esm.run is completely free. jsDelivr is completely free. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.