The Difference Between null and undefined in JavaScript
In JavaScript, both null
and undefined
represent nothing. The only difference between the two is that null
is explicit while undefined
is implicit.
When a variable has not been given a value, undefined
is inferred. When null
is set as the value we explicitly say that there is no value. When we donβt know thereβs no value, undefined
is used, and when we know thereβs no value, null
is used.
The two types are also not equal. Take the following as an example:
Copied to clipboard! Playground
// This will equal to true
undefined == null
// But this won't
undefined === null
// That's because
typeof undefined // will be "undefined"
typeof null // will be "object"
// Hence this will be false as well
typeof undefined == typeof null
And why null
is an object? I suggest checking out the below article to find out more:
Resources:
π More Webtips
Master the Art of Frontend
- Access 100+ interactive lessons
- Unlimited access to hundreds of tutorials
- Prepare for technical interviews