Why requestAnimationFrame is Better Than setInterval or setTimeout

While both setInterval and setTimeout can be used for animation tasks, requestAnimationFrame is generally considered a better choice for several reasons.

1. Synchronization with Display Refresh Rate

requestAnimationFrame synchronizes its callbacks with the display refresh rate of the device, typically 60Hz. This means that the animation is updated at a consistent frame rate, eliminating jitter and choppiness that can occur with setInterval or setTimeout.

2. Reduced Resource Consumption

setInterval and setTimeout call their callbacks at specified intervals, even if the browser is not actively rendering. This can lead to unnecessary CPU usage and battery drain. requestAnimationFrame, on the other hand, only calls its callback when the browser is about to display a new frame, saving resources.

3. Enhanced User Experience

Animations powered by requestAnimationFrame feel smoother and more responsive compared to those using setInterval or setTimeout. This is because requestAnimationFrame takes into account the device's refresh rate and ensures that the animation runs at a consistent, visually pleasing pace.

4. Availability of Timestamp

requestAnimationFrame provides a timestamp parameter to its callback, which represents the time when the frame is scheduled to be displayed. This timestamp can be used to calculate the time elapsed since the previous frame, enabling more precise animation control and smooth transitions.

5. Elimination of Shear and Flicker

requestAnimationFrame solves problems such as shear (mismatched animation positions) and flicker (displaying an incomplete frame) that can occur with setInterval or setTimeout. This is because it schedules the next frame rendering only when the current frame has been fully presented on the screen.

In summary, requestAnimationFrame is the preferred choice for animation tasks due to its synchronization with the display refresh rate, reduced resource consumption, enhanced user experience, availability of timestamps, and elimination of shear and flicker.