Build Optimizations in Angular

Introduction

Building optimized applications is crucial for performance and user experience. In Angular, several built-in features and best practices can help improve the build process, reduce the application size, and enhance load times.

Angular Optimizations

1. Ahead-of-Time (AOT) Compilation

AOT compiles your application at build time. This can significantly reduce the size of the bundle and improve rendering performance.

ng build --prod --aot

2. Lazy Loading

Lazy loading allows you to load feature modules on demand rather than at startup, reducing the initial load time.


const routes: Routes = [
    { path: 'feature', loadChildren: () => import('./feature/feature.module').then(m => m.FeatureModule) }
];

3. Tree Shaking

Angular uses a tree-shaking mechanism that eliminates unused code during the build process. Ensure your application uses pure functions and side-effect-free modules.

4. Bundle Optimization

Angular CLI automatically optimizes your bundle. Use tools like source-map-explorer to analyze your bundle size.

npm install -g source-map-explorer

source-map-explorer dist/*.js

Best Practices

Use the Angular CLI for build optimizations.
Keep dependencies up to date.
Minimize third-party libraries.
Optimize images and assets.
Monitor performance using tools like Lighthouse.

FAQ

What is AOT compilation?

AOT (Ahead-of-Time) compilation is the process of compiling your Angular app at build time, which can lead to smaller bundles and faster rendering.

How can I enable lazy loading?

Lazy loading can be enabled using the loadChildren property in your routing module.

What is tree shaking?

Tree shaking is a term for dead-code elimination, which removes unused code during the build process, reducing the final bundle size.