Virtualization renders only visible items, enabling smooth scrolling of large lists. Here's how to implement it.
Why Virtualization?#
Loading code block...
react-window#
Loading code block...
Variable Size List#
Loading code block...
Virtual Grid#
Loading code block...
TanStack Virtual#
Loading code block...
Infinite Scroll#
Loading code block...
Custom Virtualization#
Loading code block...
Windowed Table#
Loading code block...
Scroll Restoration#
Loading code block...
Best Practices#
Implementation:
✓ Use overscan for smooth scrolling
✓ Memoize row components
✓ Handle dynamic heights properly
✓ Reset virtualizer on data changes
Performance:
✓ Avoid inline styles in rows
✓ Use itemData for shared data
✓ Debounce scroll handlers
✓ Profile with React DevTools
UX:
✓ Show loading placeholders
✓ Preserve scroll position
✓ Handle empty states
✓ Support keyboard navigation
Conclusion#
Virtualization enables smooth rendering of large lists by only rendering visible items. Use react-window for simple cases, TanStack Virtual for dynamic sizing, and implement infinite scroll for paginated data. Always memoize row components and handle scroll restoration.