What are the differences between JavaScript's parseFloat() and parseInt()?
Davide S
JavaScript provides two methods for parsing numeric values:parseFloat() andparseInt(). While they are both used for converting strings to numbers, there are some differences in their behavior. Here are the main differences betweenparseFloat() andparseInt():
1. Decimal numbers:
-parseFloat() handles decimal numbers and returns a floating-point number with decimal precision.
-parseInt() only returns the integer part of a number and truncates any decimal values.
2. Number formats:
-parseFloat() can handle both decimal and exponential notation.
-parseInt() only handles decimal notation. If the string starts with0x or0X, it interprets the string as a hexadecimal number.
3. Handling non-numeric characters:
-parseFloat() andparseInt() differ in their handling of non-numeric characters in the input string.
-parseFloat() parses the string until it encounters a non-numeric character, and it ignores any subsequent characters.
-parseInt() stops parsing as soon as it encounters a non-numeric character, even if there are numeric characters following it.
1
2
3
4
parseFloat("123abc"); // Output: 123 (numeric value before the non-numeric character)
parseInt("123abc"); // Output: 123 (numeric value before the non-numeric character)
4. Radix (forparseInt() only):
-parseInt() accepts an optional second parameter called the radix, which specifies the base of the number being parsed.
- If the radix is not specified,parseInt() assumes base 10. However, it can also handle other bases from 2 to 36.
It's important to note that bothparseFloat() andparseInt() have some limitations and potential inconsistencies, especially when dealing with leading zeros or non-numeric characters. If you require more precise parsing or handling of specific formats, consider using external libraries or custom parsing logic tailored to your specific needs.