encodeURI() vs. encodeURIComponent(): When to Use Which for URL Encoding?

Escape vs. encodeURI / encodeURIComponent: Usage Considerations

When encoding a query string to be sent to a web server, the choice between using escape() and encodeURI() / encodeURIComponent() depends on the specific needs of the application.

escape()

escape() is a legacy function that is no longer recommended for use. It has been deprecated in favor of encodeURI() and encodeURIComponent() due to its undesirable characteristics. Specifically, escape() encodes special characters with the exception of @*_ -./, and it uses a two-digit hexadecimal escape sequence for characters with a code unit value of 0xFF or less. This format is not allowed in a query string, as defined in RFC3986.

encodeURI()

encodeURI() should be used when a working URL is desired. It encodes characters that are not part of the URI specification, such as spaces and non-alphanumeric characters. However, encodeURI() does not encode the ' character.

encodeURIComponent()

encodeURIComponent() should be used when encoding the value of a URL parameter. It encodes characters that are not valid in a URI component, such as spaces and non-alphanumeric characters. Additionally, encodeURIComponent() does not encode the ' character.

Usage Guidelines

• Use encodeURI() to create a valid URL.
• Use encodeURIComponent() to encode the value of a URL parameter.
• Avoid using escape() due to its deprecated status and potential issues with encoding.
• Remember that neither encodeURI() nor encodeURIComponent() encodes the ' character.

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