Frontend Frameworks

C3.js

Customizable charting library based on D3.js for easy data visualization.

Status
Not yet determined
Last checked
Unverified
License
Open source
Pricing
Free tier · from $0

What it is

C3.js is a powerful and customizable JavaScript library built on top of D3.js, designed to simplify the process of creating interactive charts and visualizations. It provides a straightforward API that makes it easier for developers to integrate rich graphical representations into their web applications without deep knowledge of D3.js.

C3.js stands out as a lightweight, easy-to-use library built on D3.js, offering a simplified API to create interactive charts without the complexity of learning D3.js.

When it fits — and when it doesn’t

A good fit for

  • Developers who need to quickly integrate interactive charts into their web apps without deep D3.js knowledge.

  • Projects requiring a wide range of chart types with customizable styling options.

Look elsewhere if

  • Applications that require real-time data streaming and processing beyond basic chart updates

  • Teams looking for a full-fledged BI tool with advanced analytics capabilities

Known weaknesses

Each one links to the public issue, changelog or docs page it came from, where we have one.

  1. 01

    Limited customization options beyond default settings

    While C3.js provides extensive options for styling and interactivity, deeply customizing the charts to fit specific design requirements can be challenging due to its abstraction layer over D3.js.

  2. 02

    Performance issues with large datasets

    C3.js may experience performance degradation when handling very large datasets, as it is built on top of D3.js which can be computationally expensive for complex visualizations.

  3. 03

    Outdated documentation and examples

    The official C3.js documentation may not always reflect the latest features or best practices, leading to confusion and difficulties in implementing new functionalities.

What it does well

  • Simplified API for D3.js-based charting

  • Supports various types of charts including line, bar, pie, and scatter plots

  • Highly customizable with extensive options for styling and interactivity

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 C3.js

Setup steps, common gotchas and what to check after 30 days.

Open the setup guide →