Oxlint vs SWC: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between Oxlint and SWC 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:
Oxlint
Fast JavaScript/TypeScript linter
Best for you if:
- • Oxlint is an extremely fast JavaScript and TypeScript linter
- • It catches errors and enforces best practices 50-100x faster than ESLint
SWC
Super-fast TypeScript/JavaScript compiler
Best for you if:
- • SWC is an extremely fast JavaScript/TypeScript compiler written in Rust
- • It replaces Babel with 20x faster compilation for modern JavaScript
| At a Glance |  Oxlint |  SWC |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | FreeFree tier available | FreeFree tier available |
Best For | Developer Tools | Developer Tools |
Rating | - | - |
Free plan | Yes | Yes |
Choose Oxlint or SWC?
Choose Oxlint if
Fast JavaScript/TypeScript linter
- Fast JS/TS linter
- Rust-based
- Good performance
Choose SWC if
Super-fast TypeScript/JavaScript compiler
- Very fast compilation
- Rust-based
- Babel compatible
| Feature | Oxlint | SWC |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Free |
| User Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Categories | Developer ToolsCode Review | Developer ToolsCI/CD |
In-Depth Analysis
Oxlint
Fast JavaScript/TypeScript linter
Strengths
- +Fast JS/TS linter
- +Rust-based
- +Good performance
- +ESLint compatible
- +Active development
Weaknesses
- -Newer tool
- -Not all ESLint rules
- -Ecosystem smaller
- -Still maturing
- -Migration effort
Key features
Value 100/100. Oxlint's pricing is exceptionally generous, offering a fully-featured, high-performance linter completely free under an MIT License.
Watch out: No hidden costs; entirely free.
SWC
Super-fast TypeScript/JavaScript compiler
Strengths
- +Very fast compilation
- +Rust-based
- +Babel compatible
- +Next.js default
- +Active development
Weaknesses
- -Plugin ecosystem smaller
- -Some Babel features missing
- -Debugging harder
- -Learning curve
- -Config different
Key features
Value 100/100. SWC's pricing is exceptionally generous, being entirely free.
Watch out: Requires internal development resources
Pricing: Oxlint vs SWC
| Plan | Oxlint | SWC |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | Free Open Source | Free Free |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on Oxlint pricing and SWC pricing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are free. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Oxlint
Want the highest-rated option?
Neither has ratings yet.
Too early to call on ratings — compare on features and pricing.
Value user reviews?
Neither has ratings yet.
Too early to call — neither has ratings yet.
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 developer tools tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Neither has ratings yet.
Key Takeaways
SWC
- Completely free
- Our pick for this comparison
Oxlint
- Choose if you want fast JavaScript/TypeScript linter
The Bottom Line
SWC is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Oxlint or SWC better?
SWC is rated in our evaluation. Both are free.
What are Oxlint and SWC used for?
Oxlint: Fast JavaScript/TypeScript linter. SWC: Super-fast TypeScript/JavaScript compiler.
What does Oxlint cost vs SWC?
Oxlint is completely free. SWC is completely free. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.