bidict
Efficient bidirectional map data structures for Python.
- Status
- Generally available
- Last checked
- Checked · Oct 6, 2026
- License
- Open source
- Pricing
- Free tier · from $0
What it is
Bidict provides efficient and Pythonic bidirectional mapping capabilities, allowing developers to maintain consistent mappings between two sets of values. This is particularly useful in scenarios where reverse lookups are required without the overhead of maintaining separate dictionaries.
Bidict stands out as an efficient, Pythonic solution for implementing bidirectional mappings with minimal overhead and comprehensive support for various use cases.
When it fits — and when it doesn’t
A good fit for
Developers working on projects requiring efficient bidirectional data structures.
Applications where reverse lookups need to be performed frequently and efficiently.
Look elsewhere if
Projects that do not require bidirectional mapping capabilities.
Scenarios where the overhead of maintaining a bidirectional map is unnecessary or inefficient.
Known weaknesses
Each one links to the public issue, changelog or docs page it came from, where we have one.
- 01
Limited language support
Bidict is primarily designed for Python, and there are no official versions or integrations for other programming languages.
- 02
Complex setup for non-trivial use cases
Setting up bidirectional mappings with complex data structures can require a deep understanding of the library's internal mechanisms and Pythonic patterns.
- 03
Performance overhead in large-scale applications
Maintaining two-way consistency between mappings can introduce performance bottlenecks when dealing with very large datasets or high-frequency updates.
- 04
Documentation lacks advanced usage examples
While the basic documentation is comprehensive, it falls short in providing detailed examples for more complex use cases and edge scenarios.
What it does well
Bidirectional mapping with efficient reverse lookups.
Support for various bidirectional map types (e.g., OrderedBidict).
Comprehensive test suite and documentation.
Pricing
- Free tier
- YesOpen source — free to use
- Paid from
- $0
- Model
- Flat rate
- Enterprise plan
- No
Pricing not independently confirmed — check the vendor’s page.
Performance benchmarks
How Fast Is It?
Set up bidict
Setup steps, common gotchas and what to check after 30 days.