esm.sh vs unpkg: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between esm.sh and unpkg 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.
By Toolradar Team · Last updated February 28, 2026 · Methodology
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
esm.sh
Serve NPM packages as modern ES modules directly in browsers and Deno, no build tools needed.
Best for you if:
- • You need cdn features specifically
- • Serves NPM packages as ES modules directly to browsers/Deno.
- • Eliminates the need for build tools and local package installations.
unpkg
CDN for npm packages
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.5/10 vs 0.0/10)
- • You need api tools features specifically
- • unpkg is a fast CDN for npm packages
- • It serves any file from any npm package instantly
| At a Glance |  esm.sh |  unpkg |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Free |
Best For | CDN | API Tools |
Rating | —/100 | 85/100 |
| Feature | esm.sh | unpkg |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Free |
| Editorial Score | — | 85 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | CDN | API ToolsHosting & Deployment |
How esm.sh and unpkg Compare
esm.sh
Serve NPM packages as modern ES modules directly in browsers and Deno, no build tools needed.
Free
unpkg
CDN for npm packages
Free · 85/100 score
esm.sh is a cdn tool. unpkg is in api tools.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are free. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: esm.sh
Want the highest-rated option?
unpkg scores 85/100. esm.sh is unrated.
Go with: unpkg
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: unpkg
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?
esm.sh is a cdn tool. unpkg is in api tools. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Not all tools have been rated yet.
Key Takeaways
unpkg
- Higher score: 85/100 vs unrated
- Completely free
- Our pick for this comparison
esm.sh
- Better fit for cdn
The Bottom Line
unpkg (85/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is esm.sh or unpkg better?
unpkg scores 85/100 in our evaluation. Both are free.
What are esm.sh and unpkg used for?
esm.sh: Serve NPM packages as modern ES modules directly in browsers and Deno, no build tools needed.. unpkg: CDN for npm packages.
What does esm.sh cost vs unpkg?
esm.sh is completely free. unpkg is completely free. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.