861: Local Data: Sqlite, LocalStorage, Session, Cookies and IndexDB

Key takeaways

Local data storage is essential for enhancing application speed, privacy, and user experience.
Different storage mechanisms such as cookies, local storage, session storage, and IndexedDB each have unique advantages and should be used according to specific needs.
Storing data locally can prevent frustrating user experiences, particularly for forms or settings that users don't want to lose.
Innovative libraries and tools are emerging that offer better control over local data storage, including syncing capabilities.
Effective data storage and migration strategies will be crucial as applications increasingly rely on client-side data management.

Summary

Introduction to Local Data Storage

Scott and Wes kick off the episode discussing the vital importance of local data storage and the different ways to handle it. They lightheartedly relate personal experiences to the concept, including a fun anecdote about mochi balls from Trader Joe's as they transition to talk about local data syncing.

Reasons to Store Data Locally

The hosts explore various reasons for storing data on the client side, like user preferences and settings that don’t require sending information back to a database. They share practical examples, such as keeping track of video playback settings or user-authentication tokens, noting the benefits of increased speed and privacy.

Where to Store Data

Scott and Wes break down several storage options available in browsers: cookies, local storage, session storage, and IndexedDB. They explain the characteristics, advantages, and use cases for each storage mechanism, including their limitations in data size and types, making a case for IndexedDB as a more powerful solution for structured data.

Advanced Data Storage Techniques

The conversation heats up as they dive deeper into some advanced local storage solutions like SQLite over WebAssembly and newer options like PG Lite. They compare these tools in terms of efficiency and flexibility, and discuss the importance of handling migrations properly when switching or updating storage solutions.

The Future of Local Data Use

Towards the end of the episode, Scott and Wes look ahead at the innovative options for local data storage and syncing technologies emerging on the market. They highlight the use of platforms like ZeroSync, InstantDB, and ElectricSQL, considering their potential to simplify data handling and synchronization processes.

Show notes

Scott and Wes dive into the world of local data storage, breaking down the pros and cons of Sqlite, LocalStorage, SessionStorage, Cookies, and IndexedDB. They cover real-world use cases like user settings, offline data, and auth tokens, while sharing their favorite tools and strategies for keeping your data fast and secure.
Show Notes 00:00 Welcome to Syntax!
00:30 Brought to you by Sentry.io.
01:43 Why store data locally. 01:55 User preferences and settings.
02:50 Not logged in state (shopping carts, etc).
03:30 Data for faster loading.
03:51 Privacy concerns.
04:25 Large files or drafts.
05:50 Auth tokens.

07:08 Where to store data. 07:11 Cookies.
07:48 Local storage.
09:15 Session storage.
10:35 IndexedDB.

12:15 BYOJS Storage.
13:41 SQlite via WASM.
14:12 Penalties of SQLite in browser via WASM.
15:29 PGLite.
16:23 Dealing with migrations.
16:55 The advantages of the approach.
18:42 Dexie.
19:59 Patch messages.
21:25 A few options. TinyBase Docs.
Local First Web.

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