Rolldown vs Vite: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Rolldown and Vite 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:
Rolldown
Blazing fast Rust-based JavaScript bundler with Rollup-compatible API and esbuild feature parity.
Best for you if:
- • You need browser devtools features specifically
- • Rust-based JavaScript bundler for blazing fast performance.
- • Offers Rollup-compatible API and esbuild feature parity.
Vite
Next-generation frontend build tool
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (9.2/10 vs 7.0/10)
- • You need terminal tools features specifically
- • Lightning-fast frontend dev server with native ES module serving
- • Near-instant hot module replacement regardless of project size
| At a Glance |  Rolldown |  Vite |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Free |
Best For | Browser DevTools | Terminal Tools |
Rating | 70/100 | 92/100 |
| Feature | Rolldown | Vite |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Free |
| Editorial Score | 70 | 92 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Browser DevToolsCI/CD | Terminal ToolsHosting & Deployment |
How Rolldown and Vite Compare
Rolldown
Blazing fast Rust-based JavaScript bundler with Rollup-compatible API and esbuild feature parity.
Free · 70/100 score
Vite
Next-generation frontend build tool
Free · 92/100 score
Rolldown is a browser devtools tool. Vite is in terminal tools.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are free. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Rolldown
Want the highest-rated option?
Rolldown: 70/100. Vite: 92/100.
Go with: Vite
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Vite
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?
Rolldown is a browser devtools tool. Vite is in terminal tools. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Vite scores higher: 92/100 vs 70/100.
Key Takeaways
Vite
- Higher score: 92/100 vs 70
- Completely free
- Our pick for this comparison
Rolldown
- Better fit for browser devtools
The Bottom Line
Vite (92/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Rolldown or Vite better?
Vite scores 92/100 in our evaluation. Both are free.
What are Rolldown and Vite used for?
Rolldown: Blazing fast Rust-based JavaScript bundler with Rollup-compatible API and esbuild feature parity.. Vite: Next-generation frontend build tool.
What does Rolldown cost vs Vite?
Rolldown is completely free. Vite is completely free. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.